I feel I’m a bit out of my element even thinking about trying to play this instrument, but I can’t suppress the desire to. Admittedly, I first noticed these pipes in movie scores and such, but I’ve always been somewhat of a curious musician… trying every instrument I can. I realize this is much more of a challenge than most instruments, but that also suits my personality. I don’t require instant gratification and I like achieving what others give up on.
Anyway, enough about me. I unfortunately don’t have the budget for a more expensive set. However, I came across Patrick Sky’s budget practice set and it seems like my best way to go. I’ve read of a few people recommending him, but I haven’t heard anything specific or thorough. I don’t distrust his work (he has quite a reputation), but there’s no way for me to really try anything out or know what I’m buying because of my current situation in the military. I realize it’s ideal to hear them played in person, but that’s just not an option for me. I still am willing to take the plunge and give it a good shot. The best I can hope for is help from people who are more educated.
So, does anyone have anything they could tell me about his set(s) or an alternative for around the same price? Also, he has ebony (over rosewood) as an option for an extra $75. I know a bit about wood from guitar, but does it have a great effect on tone with pipes?
Hi Bones, welcome to the boards.
If you like a tough challenge then the Uilleann pipes definitely offer that by the bucket load. An instrument that can be sublime to play one day, and completely frustrating the next. If you can rub your head, pat your chest, tap your foot, and whistle a tune, all at the same time while flapping one elbow like a chicken, then you should have the coordination to play the pipes.
The learning curve is steep at first, especially if you are isolated from other players. Take it from me, I made this mistake, find a player to help you a soon as you get the chance.
I have no experience with Pat’s work, but like you, have heard good things. He does offer a way in to what can be an expensive instrument. Buying from him means the set you get will be tested and in good working order, as apposed to a second hand set that may have issues you may not even be aware of.
As for the wood you choose for tone, that’s a big debate! To be honest, for the first year your probably not going to be making sounds that are very tuneful, let alone toneful! I think it is more of an esthetic consideration for your first set.
Thanks for the reply. I’m definitely up to the challenge. I stuck to guitar and piano for 8 years and more recently the saxophone, banjo, harp, and violin. I recently bought a tin whistle to see if I enjoy playing this “type” of instrument. I’m having a blast so far. I realize the whistle is very easy, but I assume that if I enjoy the whistle this much, I (with dedication) would be able to enjoy the pipes.
As for finding a teacher, I’ve tried and tried. There’s no one within a 6 hour range here. However, I ordered “The New Approach To Uilleann Piping” by H.J. Clarke. I suppose that’s about the best I can do for at least the next three years.
I’m sending the money tomorrow to start the clock. I can’t wait.
Minneapolis is too far for regular lessons. Being military, I’m very busy and have to fill out paperwork every time I drive that far away. I didn’t realize you could get lessons from skype though. I’ll have to look into that. The only problem with that is I only have my computer and internet access in my dorm. My dorm is full of different shifts and the pipes would be too loud to play in here.
Nowadays my Sky halfset is my backup/travel set; a few months ago I “upgraded” to the aforementioned Gallagher. But having logged many hours on the latter, and also on my C chanter, I can repeat with even more confidence that Sky’s instruments are real bargains: my Sky chanter compares very favorably with my other gear in its tuning, tone quality, and dependability.
Every time I pick up that set, I remember how much I like it. (I’ve been re-reeding its drones for practice, so I was playing it just the other day.)
By the way, I agree with Phil: for a beginner there’s no advantage of ebony over rosewood. A friend of mine had a Sky “budget” halfset all in rosewood for a while (he soon went to a full set, which Sky doesn’t make), and I thought it looked, played, and sounded just fine.
To play devil’s advocate [donning asbestos undies, anticipating flames] the most significant disadvantage of rosewood is that many pipemakers develop nasty allergies to its sawdust. From the player’s/listener’s standpoint, it’s terrific. [/leaves a.u. on, ejoying the confidence they impart]
Thanks for the information. That’s great to hear. I actually sent off the check today (for rosewood). This will be the longest two months I’ve had in a while.
You should really try and get yourself to the GNIPC tionol in the Twin Cities this coming September. It’ll give you the chance to get some solid basics under your belt. There is more information here https://forums.chiffandfipple.com/t/gnipc-2013-tionol/87180/1 - registration should be up on the GNIPC site later this week.
Good for you man! I started learning on a Skye budget set and it worked very well indeed. The Clarke book is an excellent tutor, especially since you already have a background in reading and playing music. Just follow the lessons and practice them multiple times and get comfortable.
Start with just blowing up the bag and keeping constant pressure. I took a workshop with Benedict Kholer at the SouthEast Tionol in February and he gave really great advice. SO if you want I can send you some of his tips.
(I’ve been re-reeding its drones for practice, so I was playing it just the other day.)