Examining and playing a rare set of (c.1890) Duncan MacDougall Bagpipes

In this episode of “The Pipe Box”, Gold Medallist, Jim McGillivray explains the relevance of the bagpipe maker, Duncan MacDougall then showcases a rare set of ebony and ivory (c.1890) Duncan MacDougall Bagpipes.
The St. Andrew's College Association Pipe Band's P/M, Matt MacIsaac (@MattMacIsaacMusic) also was gracious enough to play a tune ("Cork Hill") on them then sit down to briefly discuss. The tune played by Matt MacIsaac is "Cork Hill" - pipetunes.ca/t...
Drone Reeds:
Outer Tenor: Balance Tone
Inner Tenor: E-zee Drone
Bass: Balance Tone
Duncan MacDougall was one of the most influential bagpipe makers in Scotland. His contributions to the craft of bagpipe making have left a lasting legacy, with his instruments still highly regarded and sought after by pipers and collectors alike.
Duncan was born in 1837 in Perthshire, Scotland. He began his career as an apprentice under the famous bagpipe maker Peter Henderson in Glasgow. After honing his skills and gaining valuable experience, MacDougall returned to his hometown of Aberfeldy in Perthshire to establish his own bagpipe-making business around 1860.
MacDougall's bagpipes are known for their distinctive and exceptional quality. He was meticulous in selecting the best materials for his instruments, primarily using African blackwood, which was both durable and capable of producing a rich, resonant sound. His pipes were often adorned with mounts made from materials such as ivory, nickel, and silver, adding to their aesthetic appeal.
One of MacDougall's significant contributions to bagpipe making was his refinement of the bore design of the drones and chanter. His modifications resulted in a more stable and harmonious drone sound and improved the overall tonal quality of the chanter. These innovations helped set a new standard for the Great Highland Bagpipe, influencing future generations of pipers and makers.
Duncan MacDougall's bagpipes quickly gained a reputation for their superior tone and craftsmanship. His instruments were highly prized by both solo pipers and competitive pipe bands. Some of the most notable pipers of the time played MacDougall bagpipes, further cementing his reputation as a master craftsman.
After Duncan MacDougall's death in 1898, his son Gavin MacDougall took over the business, continuing the family tradition of high-quality bagpipe making. The MacDougall name remained synonymous with excellence in bagpipes well into the 20th century.
Today, Duncan MacDougall bagpipes are considered valuable collectors' items. They are often found in museums, private collections, and still played by those who appreciate their historical significance and superb sound quality.
Instruments made by MacDougall are carefully preserved and maintained, with many enthusiasts considering them the gold standard of 19th-century Scottish bagpipe making.
Overall, Duncan MacDougall's impact on the history and development of the Great Highland Bagpipe is profound, and his legacy endures through the continued admiration and use of his meticulously crafted instruments.
Like Vintage Bagpipes? Check out our archive - piping.on.ca/v...
Have questions or an idea for a future episode? Email us at [e-mail] or join the discussion on Facebook at / pipetunes . This episode is brought to you by www.bagpiping.ca and www.pipetunes.ca
Please LIKE and SUBSCRIBE if you enjoyed this video!

[@MM-pr3rv]

I am fortunate enough to have purchased this set from Jim about a month ago. The pipes are astounding. With a set of Balance Tone drone reeds, as well as a Naill Blackwood chanter with a McPhee chanter reed, this set of pipes is absolutely amazing. Thank you for this offering, Jim.

[@williamlavallee8916]

Thanks always interesting and an education.

[@adamwiggins9865]

Very nice information. I’ve subscribed and will share this channel with my band mates.

[@Pipetunes]

Thanks

[@peterallen7166]

Lovely sound. Who was the chanter maker? Thank you.

[@jimmcgillivray3898]

McCallum Mark 3.