For anyone considering this course. I've been using it off and on for three years as a total beginner. As well as other means to learn the bagpipes As far as i am concerned this course should be sold on the likes of Udemy, yet here it is for free. A blessing to all. Follow the course, do not rush it. Repetition and patience is the key. If parts become hard, that is to be expected. Do not push past in the hopes future lessons will help past. It won't. Some lessons takes weeks to master and leave you free to move on God bless Matt for this course.
So glad you are enjoying the lessons! As for not charging, I remember being 6 years old and wanting to learn the pipes, but there was no internet, no pipers nearby, nothing... If a young Matt came to this channel but had to pay to get the materials, well, young Matt wouldn't have been able to learn. With everything being free (I don't even ask for an email!), I hope those that otherwise wouldn't have access to learning can have a real chance at becoming pipers.
@@MattWillisBagpiperwhat a great attitude! I’m 61 and just came home from Scotland with a set of pipes. It’s been a lifelong dream. I am a musician, so some parts come a bit easy for me but it’s of course unlike any instrument I’ve ever played ❤🎉
I’m 33 and it’s always been a goal of mine to learn to play the bagpipes, I finally ordered a practice chanter so I hope I can learn... I plan to watch your videos and use the book I got with my practice chanter to learn.
Matt - I wanted to say thank you for these videos. Its been around two years from I started following your beginner series, progressing onto the twist trap practice pipes and then a set of AB McCallums. Since then, I've joined a local competition band and on the first night was able to play in the circle and have had comments on how clean my movements are - all thanks to your instruction. This series is truly a gem, and for anyone starting this journey, you really can learn all of the basics from this great resource that Matt has produced.
I've been wanting to play the bagpipes for as long as I can remember. I've just turned 60 and got a practice chanter for my 60th and I'm practising everyday. Your videos are excellent and I'm watching them every day! Thx , phil
Thank you for your comment with your age, I will be 60 this October and decided learning the chanter and eventually playing bagpipes is something I've always wanted to do so pleased I'm not the only 60 year old goal getter!
@@bethannehertweck1925 Hope your practice is going well Bethanne. At 64 I'm now on the same journey to learn the pipes too. Starting off with the Glenco electronic Chanter to get me on the path, and if all goes well I will invest in a proper chanter. Happy playing! Regards, Andy
I am 66 and have been playing the recorder(s) since I was 13. I play recorder in church. I just ordered a long practice chanter and awaiting it to be delivered. I was surprised at the bottom hand fingering using the middle part of the finger as opposed to the pads which I use for recorder. I hope I can break the pad habit. Have always loved the bagpipes sound and hope I can master it. Once I receive the chanter, I will be back to view more of your videos. Thank you so much!
One trick that has worked for many with the bottom hand is using bandaids over the last pad of the finger for the index, middle, and ring fingers, you won't want to cover the holes with the bandaid part... You got this!
I just ordered my first chanter and on my way to becoming a piper! Your videos are so amazing! Thank you for so much good content and giving me the courage to try! Cant wait to watch all your videos!
Greetings from West Sussex, A total newbie here. I've been thinking about learning the pipes for a long time. I finally decided to take the plunge and do it. No musical experience at all. Got the chanter and the Highland bagpipe tutor book 1 and will start the practice. Your videos are very informative and will study them closely. Thank you for uploading and the effort put in creating your videos. Regards, Christos
Great first video for a beginner like myself hoping to learn the art of playing the practice chanter for the first time.Thanks for the 101 class,be looking forward to more of your videos.
Just got my practice chanter last night. Watched this video twice, trying to get my fingers to stay in the right place. Learning to play is a bucket list item for me so I'll be watching a lot.
Hey Teacher! I maybe a bit late starting to learn at 60-something like a few more of your 60-something students, but want to express my appreciation to the 6 year old Matt for making this channel happen. I don't have any holes in the Digeridoo I'm playing, so I'm stepping up! cheers brother! Regards, Andy
Wife got me a practice chanter and I’m excited to start learning. I’ve always had an ambition to play the bagpipes and I’m finally starting that journey. Thanks for posting these videos!
Inherited a Chanter but with the intent of using for Middle Eastern music. I chuckled at 11:10-11:12, said to myself, "Actually that would be cool if I could get that sound" BUT I also want to maximize use of instrument, and learning the core principles is paramount to me. Also you are local to me which is why I subscribed as well a non-condescending approach to your lesson. Thank you!
My grandpa gave me his old chanter for my 15th birthday. I never really thought much of it until he told me his stories behind it. Now I'm trying to learn the pipes for him i guess.. And to annoy some certain family members who hate bagpipes. But your video was short concise and educational, so thanks!
I just ordered my first practice chanter today and decided to get a head start by watching your video. I am a long time sax player and have decided to get back into music. I've been playing bass, 7 string guitar, and I've been working with a low D whistle...that stretch on the lower holes!! They recommend a piper's grip for that and I'm getting more consistent with my low D tone. This was awesome and a great start - I look forward to your next video. My practice chanter will be here Saturday!
As a long time trumpet player I can totally relate to the spit issues and that floating pinky. I just ordered a chanter from Hendersons and I'm excited to become a piper and it sounds like 1 on 1 instruction from you would greatly help my journey.
My uncle George Johnston has gifted me his chanter, I am so stocked to learn. I believe you may have taught my uncle as part of the metroplex pipe band in texas 🎉
I just started with a practice chanter about 48 hours ago, in large part because this channel does a great job of demystifying the pipes, and I feel like I'm making surprisingly quick progress, again thanks to this channel specifically. The only problem I'm experiencing is I'm getting a bit of a crampy type of pain around the base of my right thumb. I'm holding it directly under the middle finger as recommended. I'm wondering if other people experience this and it will go away when I build endurance or if I'm doing something wrong mechanically to cause the pain. I feel like if I am doing something wrong I should correct it immediately before I develop any habits that may be hard to break. I've been playing guitar like 25 years and I still do certain things really sloppily purely because I was undisciplined and ingrained the slop into my muscle memory
The right base of the thumb cramping isn’t unusual, but do make sure you aren’t squeezing the practice chanter too hard (which is tough to do when starting). I appreciate the kind words here and am glad you found the channel!
@@MattWillisBagpiper thanks for the reply and thanks again for the videos! Haha I’ve been trying to share my new enthusiasm for the pipes with friends and family without finding much interest but if I find anyone else who wants to learn the first place i’ll send them is to your channel
@@MattWillisBagpiper So glad this issue was brought up, though my own issue is a bit different. I'm on day one with my practice chanter and the inner side of my right thumb (where it touches the underside of the chanter) is sore and reddened. I can tell I'm gripping the chanter quite tightly, but if I don't, I can't get the low G note properly. Also, I can't physically rotate my thumb so the pad is against the chanter... it's the inner side of my thumb that makes contact. Even without the chanter in my hands, when I touch my thumb to my middle finger, it's the inner side of my thumb that makes contact. Is this unusual? Thanks, Matt, for the videos! As Jim said, they demystified the bagpipes and the learning process, and caused me to decide to give a long-held dream a try.
Beilliant Richard i have been battling away for a couple of months and now i see that your reed should be able to support a suspended chanter , mines is far too slack. Thank you mate.
Thank you, I just received my practice chanter so I am ready to annoy the neighbors. I shall look for more of your posts. Cheers and happy haggis hunting :)
Thank you for great lessons, they have been very helpful. I received my practice chanter about a month ago and have been practicing every day since. At first, I thought I had damaged the reed since I couldn’t get a nice and clear tone from the chanter. I then figured I had to blow it much harder than what I expected, though I’m not yet entirely sure I didn’t damage the reed. I’m out of breath when I get to the first repeat in the highroad to Gairloch from lesson 5. Does a practice chanter usually require you to blow this hard to play it? Sometimes my thumb (lower hand) will start aching during or after a practice session. Is this from a bad grip (gripping it to hard, or in the wrong manner) or is it to be expected in beginners?
Hey Matt hello from Australia caught one of your videos couple of weeks back now subbed in, got a chanter few days back watched your lesson on being a beginner, mate can't get a good sound out just a gurgle, watched lesson again a few times not getting any better, have taken Reed out blew through it an got sound, does it need to be replaced at a certain angle to the finger holes, any help would be a great. Cheers(Scottish by birth immigrated with parents at 10yrs old)
Thank you!!! I'm learning the low whistle and this is the best explanation on the piper's grip I've seen. I always wonder where to put the thumbs and you're the first person I've seen to explain the position of each finger well.
I've always loved bagpipes and wanted to learn to play. Saw a set on the site for my local goodwill and it came with a practice chanter! I played flute in school so I'm not the most knowledgeable with reeded instruments. Do you need to wet the reed before you put it in the chanter?
Thank you very much. You talk a little fast but also good understandable for gyus like me talking another native language. Looking forward to practice with your videos!
You can always use the .75X speed setting to slow me down. ;) I can only imagine how long my videos would be if I had a normal speaking cadence! Cheers!
Awesome video! I'm ordering my first PChanter today and starting professional lessons in 2 weeks. You were very informative and educational. Looking forward to more of your videos!
Just discovered your channel. I'm new to the pipes and am working with a practice chanter. Your tips on positioning the fingers and the sharpie dots on your hands took the mystery of how to get a consistently good position out of it for me, and I've had a much easier time since. I'll be checking out more of your videos.
Hello Matt, just wanted to say I really enjoy watching your videos. There's something about the way you teach that makes me want to play that much more. Honestly I'm having some issues right out of the gate, I bought a really cheap chanter at first last week and quickly realized my mistake. I just received my R.G.Hardie twist trap standard length yesterday and apparently have zero luck with this. I got the Braw app that you referenced because mine sounds nothing like yours, my low A is 224 hz and nothing sounds good. Any advice sir?
Hello! Unfortunately, the problems you’re describing sound far beyond what I can fix with a text description alone… We could schedule some lesson time, if you think that would help. If interested, email me at matt.willis.bagpiper@gmail.com
I'm just gonna go ahead and like all your stuff, and sub, because I have yet to make even a one note and will be needing all the help, and good karma available to me.
I too want to add my thanks to Matt Willis Bagpiper for this video series. I have kind of fantasized about playing the bagpipes since I was a child, but living in a country where pipers are rather scarce, only recently took a step that way by getting a practice chanter. After following introductory playing instruction videos I felt discouraged, because the darn thing required such tough blowing that I thought my eyes might pop out! Later, it started squawking with all possible bird and beast noises, and I found it quite impossible to produce the intended pitches. Instead of accepting my lack of skills as the explanation for this, I watched probably hours of videos for pipe and reed maintanance. I dared to attack my synthetic reed and plastic practice chanter with basic household cutting tools, thread from my sewing kit and grafting wax from my gardening kit. Lo and behold, the magic happened, and music started coming out! I've now ordered a bunch of reeds of different brands to try out, as well as plain and waxed hemp, plus those blue moisture control rings. While waiting for the shipment, I will continue with these fantastic and well presented exercises in hope of one day achieving agile and accurate piper fingers :) By the way, what is the name of the tune used as the opening music for the videos in this series? I've heard it so many times now that it's stuck in my head and I might want to learn to play it one day.
That's great to hear! Thank you for sharing. And the name of the opening tune is "All the Blue Bonnets Are Over the Border" Full tune here: bit.ly/BlueBonnets
Thanks for your video Matt. I've been going though introductory videos with a practice chanter and yours is by far the most comprehensive. I especially appreciate your showing correct finger placement by marking your fingers, and mentioning how it's difficult for beginners to actually feel the holes when correctly placed. All of that and more I can appreciate. I look forward to going through your available videos.
Hi Matt - In Scotland every week we all show our appreciation to those risking their lives to save others during the Coronavirus pandemic, nurses, carers, teachers, police, paramedics etc. On Thursday nights millions come out of their homes to clap, cheer, bang sauce pans, and in Scotland those who can, play pipes. I have made a pledge to play "Flower of Scotland" on the bagpipes to support this Thursday night show of thanks. My bagpipes arrived yesterday and I have been able to make a noise from the chanter. I have no idea how to read music but all I need to do is learn one tune. Two questions:- 1.) The chanter takes quite a blow to get a noise out. Is that expected? Thought I'd pulled a lung out on the first attempt. 2.) Is there such a thing as "bagpipe tabs". I used tabs to learn the guitar, it would be fab if the same existed for the pipes. Your lessons are brilliant, thank you for all the work putting them together must have taken. Its very much appreciated.
What brand pipes did you get? In any case, I got a very similar question earlier today, and this was my reply: Step 1: Make sure the bag is airtight. Take out the chanter and drones, cork it up, and see if it’s airtight. You shouldn’t be able to blow any additional air into the bag after 15-20 seconds. If you can, you’ll need to re-season a hide bag or possibly replace a synthetic bag (not many ways to fix leaky synth bag). Step 2: Play the pipe chanter by mouth. You should be able to play for about 10 seconds (or about the first line of Scotland the Brave) without having to stop for a breath. If you can’t make it that far, you’ll need to weaken the chanter reed until you can play for long. I’d start with my non-destructive methods for weakening a reed before moving onto the more destructive scraping methods. ua-cam.com/video/A6PyHUbs5Ls/v-deo.html ua-cam.com/video/DO28sseMuAY/v-deo.html Step 3: Mouth blow your drones. You should be able to turn the drones off by overpressuring them with your breath when you blow through them at a very high pressure. If you cannot, you’ll need to move the bridle down so less of the tongue is vibrating. Move it *very* little, as even a fraction of a millimeter can have a drastic effect on the amount of air they take. Mouthblowing the bass can prove challenging depending on the reed length, so you might need to try that in the bag. But in any case, you need to have the drones be able to be shut down by overpressuring them or they’re taking too much air. Once all this is done, you should be able to play for 5 minutes. Make sure while playing the pipes yyourru arm is constantly and firmly squeezing on the bag, even when blowing into the bag. Yes, you’ll need to increase your pressure on the arm when you inhale, but for steady pressure, you arm should be constantly and firmly engaged. Your shoulder should be as tired as your lips when you’re done (unless you’re a body builder or triathlete!). Hope this helps and best of luck!
Hey Matt, I just picked up some highland piper tutor books and got myself the R.G. hardie practice bagpipes and looking forward to following your series and learning.
Hey, I've been looking to get into the pipes and was wondering what long practice chanter you would recommend. I've been looking around and can't seem to find a good consensus on them. I've read that plastic is best for beginners as wood tends to crack and that long chanters tend to produce better sound. What would your recommendation be for a good long chanter to get started with?
The Hardie twist trap long practice chanter is a solid choice. A bit on the quiet side, but tends to have a more accurate scale (as this chanter is also used on their twist trap pipes).
Very useful and appreciated video! One surprise I had when I got my chanter, the reed had a plastic head. I thought it was a plastic cover over a fiber reed and keep trying to pull it off! Yikes. I called the company to ask about it and they told me, the plastic was the reed and not to pull it off! Can't wait until the next video. Thank you!
Thank you. This was an extremely informative piece. To say I know nothing would be bragging. Hell, I wasn't even certain how the reed fit prior to watching.
Thanks Matt I just got a set of pipes This is very very Helpful I have subscribed and going through the video's you have do you still do Skipe lessons Thanks
I’m a guitarist singer songwriter and I always loved the sound of pipes and I finally after 18 years of wanting to play pipes I picked up a practice chanter (I wanted full pipes or even a goose but I’m too broke )
Thanks so much Matt for this great channel! I bought a set of twist trap practice pipes and they arrived a few days ago - have the practice chanter put together, and the bag and the drones are still in the case. Finally got past making duck-snort noises to a good low G, but now I'm trying to keep my ring finger from lifting when playing the G-to-B exercise.... "The Journey is the Reward" - Steve Jobs
@@MattWillisBagpiper Thank you I just picked up a barefoot bagpiper practice set and have been using your videos and the highland bagpipe tutor book to start.
Any practice chanter from any of the major brands, RG, Hardie, McCallum, Wallace, Gibson, Dunbar… The list goes on and on, but it should be a name brand from a Bagpipe retailer, and not something purchased off Amazon. Best of luck!
Matt, thanks for your great videos! I'm in my 7th month of learning on the chanter and am having problems because after a half hour or so of practice, my lips get tired and cramped and I lose the seal... other than keeping at it, are there techniques or exercises I can do to fix this?
Really clear and helpful. Thank you. I've been playing Tenor Sax every day for a year now. Do you think ( with your videos ) I could learn bagpipes along side say an hour a day practice on each ?? I would like to be able to play at least something simple for my 70th Birthday in September
Glad you found the channel! My videos here can definitely help get you going, but online lessons would be best to make sure no bad habits are getting picked up. If you want more info on lessons, you can email me at matt@mattpiper.com Cheers!
Hi I take on a new personal challenge every year. This year Its learning the Bagpipes and I`m so excited. My Practice chanter is here but there was mix up and no reed was included so have to wait a bit longer till i can make a noise, but that is probably for the best .... found this really helpful so have subscribed.
Nice channel and really good explanation and tutorial. I have the twist trap chanter and National Piping centre tutorial book, but need to find a video to explain things in more detail. thank you
Re cleaning practice chanters: Good advice from you. I have a John Walsh plastic chanter with an internal moisture trap (which does NOT unscrew). I clean moisture out by reverse blowing the top half. Easy & quick to do ... and surprising how much moisture blows. Julian Payne / Manila
What is your approach on where, if at all, rest the practice chanter on? Should it be rested on the table, placed on the leg (Chile sitting :) ) or held in the air? I have never noticed anybody having a strong opinion on this it is always quite critical if somebody tries to figure out if he/she should get a long chanter or not.
Great question! I don't really have an opinion on the matter. Most practice chanters don't weight enough to really affect the fingerwork even if not resting on a table. So I guess I'm a "do what works for you" kind of guy here.
I have small hands and my fingers are not very long either, so its a bit of a challenge to get my fingers on chanter comfortably, i hope with more practice this gets easier and my hands and fingers start to relax......maybe i will start doing some hand and finger stretches to relax my hands and fingers.....i had same problem when i tried to learn how to play guitar, i had a hard time getting my hand and fingers around neck of guitar......ugh.....😢
My 8 year old is determined to learn. Is there a practice chanter best for child size hands? Or should they learn on standard? I have no idea what im doing and will be using your videos to get her started.
Hey Matt, my practice chanter has just arrived in the post! The Reed is wrapped in string but the actual chanter itself doesn’t have any…what’s the best string to buy for this and how do I go about putting it on??? Thanks in advance! Excited to start playing
Is the end of your chanter large enough to hold the reed? I’ve seen some folks wrap their reed in a bit of paper towel and store it in the bottom of the mouthpiece…
Don't buy a cheap one from eBay, I made that mistake, waste of money. Then bought a 'shepherd' from Scotland. I think it's shepherd and co, you'll have to Google it. It was about £50 but a whole different thing to the £18 one from eBay.
I don't know if my hands are too small or what, but I can't get that clean low sound with all my fingers on. I tried moving them around and nothing happened. When I take my top ring finger off that note sounds fine though, so maybe it's that finger?
How difficult is it for someone who has a bit of a musical background to transition to bagpipes/chanter? I have ordered a practice chanter, on a complete whim, and is due in a few days. I can play just about anything with strings, so I can read sheet music, hear tuning ect, but I realize this is a completely different family of instruments. Any response is appreciated! Thanks to your dedication in teaching!
Having a background in music definitely helps, but there are aspects of piping that are unique to the pipes alone, such as the percussive nature of our grace noting. Luckily a practice chanter doesn't cost much, so you aren't out too much to give this all a try (plus my Basics Series here is free!)
Hello Matt, I'm always struggle with my practice... Question : what is the utility of the elastic around the reed ? Does it prevent reed of weid noises ? 😁
Hey Matt, might be a silly question but how much of the chanter should be in my mouth? Should it be past the teeth or closet to the lips? I was a trumpet player way back in high school and almost feels more natural using the same lip muscles with this...
![Lp. Сердце Вселенной #30 ДВА В ОДНОМ [Один человек]• Майнкрафт](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/nrXy15orKhY/mqdefault.jpg)
For anyone considering this course. I've been using it off and on for three years as a total beginner. As well as other means to learn the bagpipes
As far as i am concerned this course should be sold on the likes of Udemy, yet here it is for free. A blessing to all.
Follow the course, do not rush it. Repetition and patience is the key. If parts become hard, that is to be expected. Do not push past in the hopes future lessons will help past. It won't. Some lessons takes weeks to master and leave you free to move on
God bless Matt for this course.
So glad you are enjoying the lessons! As for not charging, I remember being 6 years old and wanting to learn the pipes, but there was no internet, no pipers nearby, nothing... If a young Matt came to this channel but had to pay to get the materials, well, young Matt wouldn't have been able to learn. With everything being free (I don't even ask for an email!), I hope those that otherwise wouldn't have access to learning can have a real chance at becoming pipers.
@@MattWillisBagpiperwhat a great attitude! I’m 61 and just came home from Scotland with a set of pipes. It’s been a lifelong dream. I am a musician, so some parts come a bit easy for me but it’s of course unlike any instrument I’ve ever played ❤🎉
I’m 33 and it’s always been a goal of mine to learn to play the bagpipes, I finally ordered a practice chanter so I hope I can learn... I plan to watch your videos and use the book I got with my practice chanter to learn.
I'm 33 too and I finally get a practice chanter. Good luck in this trip.
I'm 31 and mine came in the mail today. We got this, boys
40 yr Old here and same thing. Hoping to take a year to practice and if I can handle it, order a set of pipes. Good luck everyone!
36 and my brother just gave me a chanter. My uncle is a bagpiper and ive always dreamed of marching in parades like him. Journey starts today
@@GeneralTinMan4 lovely dream!
Matt - I wanted to say thank you for these videos. Its been around two years from I started following your beginner series, progressing onto the twist trap practice pipes and then a set of AB McCallums.
Since then, I've joined a local competition band and on the first night was able to play in the circle and have had comments on how clean my movements are - all thanks to your instruction.
This series is truly a gem, and for anyone starting this journey, you really can learn all of the basics from this great resource that Matt has produced.
That’s great to hear!! I appreciate you sharing and so glad the videos and materials helped.
I've been wanting to play the bagpipes for as long as I can remember. I've just turned 60 and got a practice chanter for my 60th and I'm practising everyday. Your videos are excellent and I'm watching them every day! Thx , phil
Rock on!
I thought I was crazy at 52 picking these up but your video answered all my questions. Can’t wait to keep watching
Thank you for your comment with your age, I will be 60 this October and decided learning the chanter and eventually playing bagpipes is something I've always wanted to do so pleased I'm not the only 60 year old goal getter!
@@bethannehertweck1925 Hope your practice is going well Bethanne. At 64 I'm now on the same journey to learn the pipes too. Starting off with the Glenco electronic Chanter to get me on the path, and if all goes well I will invest in a proper chanter. Happy playing! Regards, Andy
I played for a about a year before I ever disassembled my PC to clean it. After watching this video it is a wonder I didn't get sick or something!
Oh wow! I'm glad you didn't get sick too!
I am 66 and have been playing the recorder(s) since I was 13. I play recorder in church. I just ordered a long practice chanter and awaiting it to be delivered. I was surprised at the bottom hand fingering using the middle part of the finger as opposed to the pads which I use for recorder. I hope I can break the pad habit. Have always loved the bagpipes sound and hope I can master it. Once I receive the chanter, I will be back to view more of your videos. Thank you so much!
One trick that has worked for many with the bottom hand is using bandaids over the last pad of the finger for the index, middle, and ring fingers, you won't want to cover the holes with the bandaid part... You got this!
I just ordered my first chanter and on my way to becoming a piper! Your videos are so amazing! Thank you for so much good content and giving me the courage to try! Cant wait to watch all your videos!
So, how is the journey one year in?
Greetings from West Sussex,
A total newbie here. I've been thinking about learning the pipes for a long time. I finally decided to take the plunge and do it. No musical experience at all. Got the chanter and the Highland bagpipe tutor book 1 and will start the practice. Your videos are very informative and will study them closely. Thank you for uploading and the effort put in creating your videos.
Regards,
Christos
Welcome aboard!
Me too! I'd love to volunteer for things if I ever get good at them!
I had to be alone and a BIT drunk to start watching your videos...but despite not being a Scot I love the pipes and I will learn all I can! Thank you!
I’m in Matt. Glad I found you. God bless you, sir.
Welcome aboard!
I just received my Twist Trap chanter today. This video was extremely helpful in finger placement. Thank you so much!
Great to hear! Plenty of videos after this one in the Basics Series to keep you learning: bit.ly/BasicsPipes
Great first video for a beginner like myself hoping to learn the art of playing the practice chanter for the first time.Thanks for the 101 class,be looking forward to more of your videos.
I've got over 25 videos up now in this Basics Series, and more are on the way! ua-cam.com/play/PLc21D3cFD-pgCpSIsdk4bTK9K_iiHoJ94.html
I just ordered my first Practice Chanter (Dunbar Plastic Long Size). I am looking forward to start playing.
Just got my practice chanter last night. Watched this video twice, trying to get my fingers to stay in the right place. Learning to play is a bucket list item for me so I'll be watching a lot.
Hey Teacher! I maybe a bit late starting to learn at 60-something like a few more of your 60-something students, but want to express my appreciation to the 6 year old Matt for making this channel happen. I don't have any holes in the Digeridoo I'm playing, so I'm stepping up! cheers brother! Regards, Andy
Wife got me a practice chanter and I’m excited to start learning. I’ve always had an ambition to play the bagpipes and I’m finally starting that journey. Thanks for posting these videos!
The best explanation I saw on the whole internet ! Lots of details and no mistakes possible really great !
Glad it was helpful!
all your videos are starry clear, from the first to the last one. Thanks from Italy , Matt.
Awesome, thank you!
Just received a chanter and pipes for my Birthday! Have wanted to play for years, so am looking forward to watching your videos and learning!
Have fun!
Couldn't of gotten to the point of buying my first (practice) bagpipes without you.
Thank you so much! Best of luck with the practice pipes!
Inherited a Chanter but with the intent of using for Middle Eastern music. I chuckled at 11:10-11:12, said to myself, "Actually that would be cool if I could get that sound" BUT I also want to maximize use of instrument, and learning the core principles is paramount to me. Also you are local to me which is why I subscribed as well a non-condescending approach to your lesson. Thank you!
My grandpa gave me his old chanter for my 15th birthday. I never really thought much of it until he told me his stories behind it. Now I'm trying to learn the pipes for him i guess.. And to annoy some certain family members who hate bagpipes. But your video was short concise and educational, so thanks!
Glad you found the channel!
16:49 I love that your wee lamp in the background looks like an upside down chanter
I just ordered my first practice chanter today and decided to get a head start by watching your video. I am a long time sax player and have decided to get back into music. I've been playing bass, 7 string guitar, and I've been working with a low D whistle...that stretch on the lower holes!! They recommend a piper's grip for that and I'm getting more consistent with my low D tone. This was awesome and a great start - I look forward to your next video. My practice chanter will be here Saturday!
what practice chanters would you recommend or where would you recommend getting one?
I'm a fan of Gibson practice chanters, especially their cocobolo. My review here: ua-cam.com/video/5xCqbofx1Ig/v-deo.html
You’re a very good teacher. Your explanations are very clear. I’m debating getting a chanter. If I do, I will watch your other videos.
Go for it!
Great instructions. Day#2 for me , I will be here daily thanks Matt
As a long time trumpet player I can totally relate to the spit issues and that floating pinky. I just ordered a chanter from Hendersons and I'm excited to become a piper and it sounds like 1 on 1 instruction from you would greatly help my journey.
Feel free to get in touch with me at matt@mattpiper.com for more lesson info!
Just started and the dots on your fingers were extremely helpful. Thank you
Glad it helped!
Thanks for showing the basic finger set up, very helpful! Looking forward to learning the chanter and more!
This was such a fantastic introductory video. Your energy and pacing are excellent. Looking forward to the rest of this series!
I was just thinking the same thing, very engaging instruction..
Matt, you seem to be playing an extended, rather than a standard, practice chanter. Is this correct? Thanks. Love the way you teach.
Fantastic introduction to the practice chanter. Thanks
Glad you liked it!
My uncle George Johnston has gifted me his chanter, I am so stocked to learn.
I believe you may have taught my uncle as part of the metroplex pipe band in texas 🎉
That's great! Your uncle still comes by for lessons and is a dear friend.
I have a low D pipe and always struggle with the 'piper's grip', thanks for a clear and well explained lesson!
I just started with a practice chanter about 48 hours ago, in large part because this channel does a great job of demystifying the pipes, and I feel like I'm making surprisingly quick progress, again thanks to this channel specifically. The only problem I'm experiencing is I'm getting a bit of a crampy type of pain around the base of my right thumb. I'm holding it directly under the middle finger as recommended. I'm wondering if other people experience this and it will go away when I build endurance or if I'm doing something wrong mechanically to cause the pain. I feel like if I am doing something wrong I should correct it immediately before I develop any habits that may be hard to break. I've been playing guitar like 25 years and I still do certain things really sloppily purely because I was undisciplined and ingrained the slop into my muscle memory
The right base of the thumb cramping isn’t unusual, but do make sure you aren’t squeezing the practice chanter too hard (which is tough to do when starting). I appreciate the kind words here and am glad you found the channel!
@@MattWillisBagpiper thanks for the reply and thanks again for the videos! Haha I’ve been trying to share my new enthusiasm for the pipes with friends and family without finding much interest but if I find anyone else who wants to learn the first place i’ll send them is to your channel
@@MattWillisBagpiper So glad this issue was brought up, though my own issue is a bit different. I'm on day one with my practice chanter and the inner side of my right thumb (where it touches the underside of the chanter) is sore and reddened. I can tell I'm gripping the chanter quite tightly, but if I don't, I can't get the low G note properly. Also, I can't physically rotate my thumb so the pad is against the chanter... it's the inner side of my thumb that makes contact. Even without the chanter in my hands, when I touch my thumb to my middle finger, it's the inner side of my thumb that makes contact. Is this unusual?
Thanks, Matt, for the videos! As Jim said, they demystified the bagpipes and the learning process, and caused me to decide to give a long-held dream a try.
Beilliant Richard i have been battling away for a couple of months and now i see that your reed should be able to support a suspended chanter , mines is far too slack. Thank you mate.
Thank you, I just received my practice chanter so I am ready to annoy the neighbors. I shall look for more of your posts. Cheers and happy haggis hunting :)
I am learning to play with the FD I work at, and your videos have been a huge help! Thank you and You rock!
Glad to help!
so cool to play for your FD
@@bee5905 Thanks! Hopefully I get to a point that I am able to play without any errors! lol
Thank you for great lessons, they have been very helpful.
I received my practice chanter about a month ago and have been practicing every day since.
At first, I thought I had damaged the reed since I couldn’t get a nice and clear tone from the chanter. I then figured I had to blow it much harder than what I expected, though I’m not yet entirely sure I didn’t damage the reed. I’m out of breath when I get to the first repeat in the highroad to Gairloch from lesson 5. Does a practice chanter usually require you to blow this hard to play it?
Sometimes my thumb (lower hand) will start aching during or after a practice session. Is this from a bad grip (gripping it to hard, or in the wrong manner) or is it to be expected in beginners?
Hey Matt hello from Australia caught one of your videos couple of weeks back now subbed in, got a chanter few days back watched your lesson on being a beginner, mate can't get a good sound out just a gurgle, watched lesson again a few times not getting any better, have taken Reed out blew through it an got sound, does it need to be replaced at a certain angle to the finger holes, any help would be a great. Cheers(Scottish by birth immigrated with parents at 10yrs old)
Thank you!!! I'm learning the low whistle and this is the best explanation on the piper's grip I've seen. I always wonder where to put the thumbs and you're the first person I've seen to explain the position of each finger well.
Glad it was helpful!
I've always loved bagpipes and wanted to learn to play. Saw a set on the site for my local goodwill and it came with a practice chanter! I played flute in school so I'm not the most knowledgeable with reeded instruments. Do you need to wet the reed before you put it in the chanter?
No need to set the reed if it’s plastic (and there’s like a 99+% chance it’s a plastic reed). Best of luck!
Wonderful introduction to this fascinating instrument! I'm interested in learning to play 'Pipes' and came across this site. Very helpful!!
Many thanks!
My practice chanter just came in the mail today. Your video definitely helped me out. Thank you for your channel!
You are so welcome!
This was my first lesson!
Hope it went well!
Thank you very much. You talk a little fast but also good understandable for gyus like me talking another native language. Looking forward to practice with your videos!
You can always use the .75X speed setting to slow me down. ;) I can only imagine how long my videos would be if I had a normal speaking cadence! Cheers!
Awesome video! I'm ordering my first PChanter today and starting professional lessons in 2 weeks. You were very informative and educational. Looking forward to more of your videos!
Glad it was helpful! Best of luck to you in your bagpipe journey! And for a full playlist of my Basics Series, go here: bit.ly/BasicsPipes
This is fantastic advice! You're a well seasoned teacher. Looking forward to the rest of the series!
Thanks! Full playlist of the Basics here: bit.ly/BasicsPipes
Great video. Subscribed and will be trying this out 🏴🤙🏼
Matt, I just made the final layaway payment on a Blair Digital Chanter! I'm looking forward to going through your tutorials when I finally get it!
Let us know how it goes!
New sub. I like your videos. Been playing 28 years.
Welcome aboard!
Just discovered your channel. I'm new to the pipes and am working with a practice chanter. Your tips on positioning the fingers and the sharpie dots on your hands took the mystery of how to get a consistently good position out of it for me, and I've had a much easier time since. I'll be checking out more of your videos.
Glad you found the channel! Here's the whole playlist for my Basics Series: bit.ly/BasicsPipes
@@MattWillisBagpiper Thank You!
Hello Matt, just wanted to say I really enjoy watching your videos. There's something about the way you teach that makes me want to play that much more. Honestly I'm having some issues right out of the gate, I bought a really cheap chanter at first last week and quickly realized my mistake. I just received my R.G.Hardie twist trap standard length yesterday and apparently have zero luck with this. I got the Braw app that you referenced because mine sounds nothing like yours, my low A is 224 hz and nothing sounds good. Any advice sir?
Hello! Unfortunately, the problems you’re describing sound far beyond what I can fix with a text description alone… We could schedule some lesson time, if you think that would help. If interested, email me at matt.willis.bagpiper@gmail.com
Such a well made video! Thanks
I'm just gonna go ahead and like all your stuff, and sub, because I have yet to make even a one note and will be needing all the help, and good karma available to me.
I too want to add my thanks to Matt Willis Bagpiper for this video series. I have kind of fantasized about playing the bagpipes since I was a child, but living in a country where pipers are rather scarce, only recently took a step that way by getting a practice chanter. After following introductory playing instruction videos I felt discouraged, because the darn thing required such tough blowing that I thought my eyes might pop out! Later, it started squawking with all possible bird and beast noises, and I found it quite impossible to produce the intended pitches. Instead of accepting my lack of skills as the explanation for this, I watched probably hours of videos for pipe and reed maintanance. I dared to attack my synthetic reed and plastic practice chanter with basic household cutting tools, thread from my sewing kit and grafting wax from my gardening kit. Lo and behold, the magic happened, and music started coming out! I've now ordered a bunch of reeds of different brands to try out, as well as plain and waxed hemp, plus those blue moisture control rings. While waiting for the shipment, I will continue with these fantastic and well presented exercises in hope of one day achieving agile and accurate piper fingers :)
By the way, what is the name of the tune used as the opening music for the videos in this series? I've heard it so many times now that it's stuck in my head and I might want to learn to play it one day.
That's great to hear! Thank you for sharing. And the name of the opening tune is "All the Blue Bonnets Are Over the Border" Full tune here: bit.ly/BlueBonnets
@@MattWillisBagpiper Thanks for this information! Truly adamant playing there.
Thanks for your video Matt. I've been going though introductory videos with a practice chanter and yours is by far the most comprehensive. I especially appreciate your showing correct finger placement by marking your fingers, and mentioning how it's difficult for beginners to actually feel the holes when correctly placed. All of that and more I can appreciate. I look forward to going through your available videos.
Awesome, thank you!
Hi Matt - In Scotland every week we all show our appreciation to those risking their lives to save others during the Coronavirus pandemic, nurses, carers, teachers, police, paramedics etc. On Thursday nights millions come out of their homes to clap, cheer, bang sauce pans, and in Scotland those who can, play pipes. I have made a pledge to play "Flower of Scotland" on the bagpipes to support this Thursday night show of thanks. My bagpipes arrived yesterday and I have been able to make a noise from the chanter. I have no idea how to read music but all I need to do is learn one tune.
Two questions:-
1.) The chanter takes quite a blow to get a noise out. Is that expected? Thought I'd pulled a lung out on the first attempt.
2.) Is there such a thing as "bagpipe tabs". I used tabs to learn the guitar, it would be fab if the same existed for the pipes.
Your lessons are brilliant, thank you for all the work putting them together must have taken. Its very much appreciated.
What brand pipes did you get? In any case, I got a very similar question earlier today, and this was my reply:
Step 1: Make sure the bag is airtight. Take out the chanter and drones, cork it up, and see if it’s airtight. You shouldn’t be able to blow any additional air into the bag after 15-20 seconds. If you can, you’ll need to re-season a hide bag or possibly replace a synthetic bag (not many ways to fix leaky synth bag).
Step 2: Play the pipe chanter by mouth. You should be able to play for about 10 seconds (or about the first line of Scotland the Brave) without having to stop for a breath. If you can’t make it that far, you’ll need to weaken the chanter reed until you can play for long. I’d start with my non-destructive methods for weakening a reed before moving onto the more destructive scraping methods.
ua-cam.com/video/A6PyHUbs5Ls/v-deo.html
ua-cam.com/video/DO28sseMuAY/v-deo.html
Step 3: Mouth blow your drones. You should be able to turn the drones off by overpressuring them with your breath when you blow through them at a very high pressure. If you cannot, you’ll need to move the bridle down so less of the tongue is vibrating. Move it *very* little, as even a fraction of a millimeter can have a drastic effect on the amount of air they take. Mouthblowing the bass can prove challenging depending on the reed length, so you might need to try that in the bag. But in any case, you need to have the drones be able to be shut down by overpressuring them or they’re taking too much air.
Once all this is done, you should be able to play for 5 minutes. Make sure while playing the pipes yyourru arm is constantly and firmly squeezing on the bag, even when blowing into the bag. Yes, you’ll need to increase your pressure on the arm when you inhale, but for steady pressure, you arm should be constantly and firmly engaged. Your shoulder should be as tired as your lips when you’re done (unless you’re a body builder or triathlete!).
Hope this helps and best of luck!
Hi Matt I'm 67 and retired now, I'm hoping to get my 1st chanter soon & watch your video's again and getting stared. Any advice on buying a chanter
I’d start with a long polypenco from a major manufacturer. Gibson makes some wonderful practice chanters.
As solely a trumpet player, I’ve been wanting to get into woodwinds. I thought that the bagpipes would be a fun way to do that.
Hey Matt, I just picked up some highland piper tutor books and got myself the R.G. hardie practice bagpipes and looking forward to following your series and learning.
Awesome! Keep us informed with your progress!
Hey, I've been looking to get into the pipes and was wondering what long practice chanter you would recommend. I've been looking around and can't seem to find a good consensus on them. I've read that plastic is best for beginners as wood tends to crack and that long chanters tend to produce better sound. What would your recommendation be for a good long chanter to get started with?
The Hardie twist trap long practice chanter is a solid choice. A bit on the quiet side, but tends to have a more accurate scale (as this chanter is also used on their twist trap pipes).
@@MattWillisBagpiper Thanks for the reply! I actually ended up getting the McCallum long polypenco practice chanter. It's working quite well for me.
Very useful and appreciated video! One surprise I had when I got my chanter, the reed had a plastic head. I thought it was a plastic cover over a fiber reed and keep trying to pull it off! Yikes. I called the company to ask about it and they told me, the plastic was the reed and not to pull it off! Can't wait until the next video. Thank you!
Oh my! Yes, practice chanter reeds are plastic. If I didn’t say that, it was an oversight. Glad you found the channel!
Thank you. This was an extremely informative piece. To say I know nothing would be bragging. Hell, I wasn't even certain how the reed fit prior to watching.
Thanks Matt I just got a set of pipes This is very very Helpful I have subscribed and going through the video's you have do you still do Skipe lessons Thanks
Hello! You can email me here for lesson info: matt@mattpiper.com
You being an American threw me a bit😮Awesome video.
Definitely an American here. Glad you liked the video!
Incredible detail and energy. Thanks for this video.
Glad you enjoyed it!
Came from connor great videos
THANK YOU MATT! YOU ARE AN AWESOME INSTRUCTOR ❤️
I appreciate that!
I’m a guitarist singer songwriter and I always loved the sound of pipes and I finally after 18 years of wanting to play pipes I picked up a practice chanter (I wanted full pipes or even a goose but I’m too broke )
Thanks so much Matt for this great channel! I bought a set of twist trap practice pipes and they arrived a few days ago - have the practice chanter put together, and the bag and the drones are still in the case. Finally got past making duck-snort noises to a good low G, but now I'm trying to keep my ring finger from lifting when playing the G-to-B exercise.... "The Journey is the Reward" - Steve Jobs
Glad you found the channel here! For strengthening your fingers, try this video: ua-cam.com/video/dc_JOtOxWAs/v-deo.html
@@MattWillisBagpiper Ah - very good - will definitely check that one out. Thanks again!
hi Matt just found u on youtube love the content of your video thanks from Glasgow Scotland.
Awesome, thank you!
Very useful thank you.
You are welcome!
Where do you buy reeds for your practice chanter? Also how frequently should you need to replace your reeds? Thank you for your help.
Most of my reeds these days are Abbott practice chanter reeds. They last a long time. 3-10 years.
@@MattWillisBagpiper Thank you I just picked up a barefoot bagpiper practice set and have been using your videos and the highland bagpipe tutor book to start.
Thank you, Matt!
Yes using your Embourachure
What is a good practice chanter brand? I’m just starting this journey!
Any practice chanter from any of the major brands, RG, Hardie, McCallum, Wallace, Gibson, Dunbar… The list goes on and on, but it should be a name brand from a Bagpipe retailer, and not something purchased off Amazon. Best of luck!
Matt, thanks for your great videos! I'm in my 7th month of learning on the chanter and am having problems because after a half hour or so of practice, my lips get tired and cramped and I lose the seal... other than keeping at it, are there techniques or exercises I can do to fix this?
If the ace refuses to get stronger, you could try a Reed Wrangler mouthpiece: ua-cam.com/video/309jvol0KGw/v-deo.html
Thanks for this video.
You're welcome!
Really clear and helpful. Thank you. I've been playing Tenor Sax every day for a year now. Do you think ( with your videos ) I could learn bagpipes along side say an hour a day practice on each ?? I would like to be able to play at least something simple for my 70th Birthday in September
Glad you found the channel! My videos here can definitely help get you going, but online lessons would be best to make sure no bad habits are getting picked up. If you want more info on lessons, you can email me at matt@mattpiper.com
Cheers!
Hi I take on a new personal challenge every year. This year Its learning the Bagpipes and I`m so excited. My Practice chanter is here but there was mix up and no reed was included so have to wait a bit longer till i can make a noise, but that is probably for the best .... found this really helpful so have subscribed.
Glad you found the channel! Best of luck to you in your bagpipe journey!
Hey, do you know any budget friendly Scottish Smallpipes? Preferably in the key of C?
Nice channel and really good explanation and tutorial. I have the twist trap chanter and National Piping centre tutorial book, but need to find a video to explain things in more detail. thank you
You're welcome! This kind of stuff is difficult to learn from a book alone.
You're awesome. Thanks for this.
You're very welcome!
Liked and subscribed my man. Thank you 😊 🙏
Re cleaning practice chanters: Good advice from you. I have a John Walsh plastic chanter with an internal moisture trap (which does NOT unscrew). I clean moisture out by reverse blowing the top half. Easy & quick to do ... and surprising how much moisture blows. Julian Payne / Manila
Thanks for sharing how to clean your style of moisture trap!
What is your approach on where, if at all, rest the practice chanter on? Should it be rested on the table, placed on the leg (Chile sitting :) ) or held in the air? I have never noticed anybody having a strong opinion on this it is always quite critical if somebody tries to figure out if he/she should get a long chanter or not.
Great question! I don't really have an opinion on the matter. Most practice chanters don't weight enough to really affect the fingerwork even if not resting on a table. So I guess I'm a "do what works for you" kind of guy here.
I have small hands and my fingers are not very long either, so its a bit of a challenge to get my fingers on chanter comfortably, i hope with more practice this gets easier and my hands and fingers start to relax......maybe i will start doing some hand and finger stretches to relax my hands and fingers.....i had same problem when i tried to learn how to play guitar, i had a hard time getting my hand and fingers around neck of guitar......ugh.....😢
First time watching your videos. Very well explained and look forward watching more to improve my practice chanter learning.
thank you for that great video your instructions are very clear and helpfull. appericiate the effort, wish you the best ^^
You’re very welcome!
My 8 year old is determined to learn. Is there a practice chanter best for child size hands? Or should they learn on standard? I have no idea what im doing and will be using your videos to get her started.
Here's a good child size practice chanter: www.hendersongroupltd.com/product/dunbar-childs-size-poly-practice-chanter/
Hey Matt, my practice chanter has just arrived in the post! The Reed is wrapped in string but the actual chanter itself doesn’t have any…what’s the best string to buy for this and how do I go about putting it on??? Thanks in advance! Excited to start playing
How to String/Hemp Bagpipe Joints - Matt Willis Bagpiper
ua-cam.com/video/H5IwDoUsH38/v-deo.html
Awesome video! Is it possible to store the reed in the bottom part of the chanter? Or dhould it always be stored separately?
Is the end of your chanter large enough to hold the reed? I’ve seen some folks wrap their reed in a bit of paper towel and store it in the bottom of the mouthpiece…
Thank you!
Anyone recommend a starter chanter and Best place to buy 1 thanks in advance
Don't buy a cheap one from eBay, I made that mistake, waste of money. Then bought a 'shepherd' from Scotland. I think it's shepherd and co, you'll have to Google it. It was about £50 but a whole different thing to the £18 one from eBay.
I don't know if my hands are too small or what, but I can't get that clean low sound with all my fingers on. I tried moving them around and nothing happened. When I take my top ring finger off that note sounds fine though, so maybe it's that finger?
How difficult is it for someone who has a bit of a musical background to transition to bagpipes/chanter? I have ordered a practice chanter, on a complete whim, and is due in a few days.
I can play just about anything with strings, so I can read sheet music, hear tuning ect, but I realize this is a completely different family of instruments. Any response is appreciated! Thanks to your dedication in teaching!
Having a background in music definitely helps, but there are aspects of piping that are unique to the pipes alone, such as the percussive nature of our grace noting. Luckily a practice chanter doesn't cost much, so you aren't out too much to give this all a try (plus my Basics Series here is free!)
Hello Matt, I'm always struggle with my practice... Question : what is the utility of the elastic around the reed ? Does it prevent reed of weid noises ? 😁
It can make the reed take a bit less air and make it a bit quieter. The higher up the band on the reed, the less air it'll take. Hope this helps!
Hey Matt, might be a silly question but how much of the chanter should be in my mouth? Should it be past the teeth or closet to the lips? I was a trumpet player way back in high school and almost feels more natural using the same lip muscles with this...
Not silly. The mouthpiece should go just past the teeth. Not in front.
@@MattWillisBagpiper thank you for the quick reply! I'll keep on keeping on! 😁