Learning to Play the Great Highland Bagpipe

The Desert Thistle Pipe Band always welcomes anyone who wants to learn to play the Great Highland Bagpipe. Listed below are several frequently asked questions about taking up the bagpipe.

Question:  Is learning to play the bagpipe hard?

Answer:  It is not any more difficult than any other instrument.  In a lot of respects it is easier to learn than most instruments because of its limited number of notes.  However, while it may not be difficult to learn, it certainly can take a long time to master.  Typically it takes the average person about a year to learn all of the basics and several more years to master the instrument.  Like all instruments, it takes a lot of practice—and patience—to learn, but it can be very rewarding.

Question:  What is required to start learning to play the bagpipe?

Answer:  To get started all you need is a practice chanter, a tutor book, and an instructor.  We can provide you with the information on obtaining the practice chanter and we provide the instruction.  Practice for “Bagpipes for Beginners” classes through Kennewick Community Education program are on Tuesday evenings from 6:15pm until 7:15pm. Practice takes place at Kennewick High School in the Cafeteria or room 408 when available.  Pipe Major Judy Morrison instructs beginning pipers on practice chanters with help from various available pipe band members. Pipe Sergeant Don Stewart works with beginning pipers.

Question:  What if I want to learn to play the drums?

Answer:  As part of the “Bagpipes for Beginners” classes through Kennewick Community Education program, Drum Sergeant Glen Wright instructs beginning Side, Base, and Tenor drummers.  To get started you will need a drum practice pad and a pair of drum sticks.

Check back here soon for answers to additional questions.