Methodology
Your First Lesson
At an introductory lesson, you will meet your instructor and discuss your goals and expectations. Bagpipers will purchase a Practice Chanter and drummers will purchase a pad and stick set. You will spend about an hour with an instructor going over the basics and leave with your first assignment. While you are there your first night, be sure to meet the other students and members of the band. You will meet people from all walks of life who share the love of the bagpipes and drums.
Level 1
Students begin with a basic course of study on their chosen instrument including basic rudiments and exercises.
Piping students begin their learning on the “practice chanter” and drumming students begin with drum sticks and practice pads. As the you progress, more advanced rudiments, embellishments, and musical phrases will be introduced. At the appropriate point, tunes and drum scores will be taught.
Level 2
At this level, piping students will begin learning how to play a bagpipe. The initial stages will be to master the chanter and bag on a “goose” (a set of bagpipes without the drones). As the student becomes more proficient with the goose, the drones will be added one at a time.
For drumming students, once the required drum scores and rudiments are learned, work will begin on the drum.
Level 3
At this level, you will become members of the band and perform in parades and special events.
Advanced players will have a chance to join the competition band.