Hi. I’m new to the uilleann pipes and looking for an instructor in the Ottawa area. I bought a used 1/2 set of Neil O’Grady pipes through this very website a few years ago and finally had the discipline to pick them up over the last week and give them a go. I’m slowly working my way through H. Clarke’s instructional book; however, … I’m sensing I would benefit from some one on one guidance. There is a folk music store here in Ottawa that has one instructor; however, the store has just rubbed me the wrong way over the years (lifetime membership fee - for what?, tiny little piping section the size of a filing cabinet, draconian cancellation policy of greater than 7 days, etc.) and I can’t seem to make personal contact with the instructor from the store to see if he is available privately. If required, I will suck it up and go to the store; however, I’m hoping that someone on this forum might know of some other options in my area. Any help would be greatly appreciated.
Finding an instructor/mentor is very important. While you may be able to learn some simple tunes on your own, having the insight of an experienced piper will gain you proper technique and lots less frustration. I wiggled my fingers on a chanter for a year on my own before giving up. Then I encountered an experienced piper who took me on as a student. In 1 month I was playing several tunes (poorly but happily). After 3 months I am making good progress. It would not have happened without the help of my instructor. Good luck to you!
Thanks everyone for the info. I contacted both the Ontario Irish Pipers Club (http://www.ontarioirishpipersclub.com/) and the Irish Piper’s Club of Quebec (http://pages.infinit.net/jamie/Uilleann.html); however, neither club is really active anymore. I got one or two leads from these clubs; however, both leads led me back to the store in Ottawa that I was trying to avoid. I’ve decided to just bite the bullet and at least start there.
Finikey - Re your advice on instructor/mentor - couldn’t agree more. Originally taught myself highland pipes and then spent a long time with instructors breaking various bad habits with limited success. Want to start on the right foot with the Irish beast.