Tuning Bagpipes Part One

Tuning the Great Highland Bagpipe can be a great challenge if one is not familiar with the correct methods.

It is important to make sure you have mastered the basics of playing before you commence learning to tune the instrument

A few points to consider are:

1.       You should be able to blow your instrument with-out physical strain

a.       Is the bag leaking?

b.      Are the Stocks cracked?

c.       Are the joints with hemp sealing?

d.      Is the blow valve sealing?

e.      Does your blow stick or water trap restrict air flow?

f.        Leaking reeds and reed seats?

2.       Know how to maintain your instrument

3.       Have a Good posture when playing

a.       Is your posture correct?

b.      Is your bag the right size?

c.       Is the blow-stick the right length?

d.      Are your drones held vertical on the shoulder?

4.       Blow Steady

a.       Is your posture correct?

b.      Is your bag the right size?

c.       Is the blow-stick the right length?

d.      Are your drones held vertical on the shoulder?

5.        Learn to be selective about your reads and instrument

6.       Develop a system of tuning and apply it every time you practice or perform