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Lesson 2: Parts of the Uilleann Pipe Practice Set
Part of the practice set
When first learning to play the Uilleann Pipes you will learn how to play on a practice set. A practice set is comprised of a chanter, a bag and bellows. Later on, you will add drones to this practice set and maybe even bellows, but not for at least a year. Watch the videos below to get a better understanding of how a practice set works.
* If you are taking these lessons you should already have a practice set. However, if you don't have a set yet please send me an email and I can help make a few recommendations about where to buy your set.
* If you are taking these lessons you should already have a practice set. However, if you don't have a set yet please send me an email and I can help make a few recommendations about where to buy your set.
Parts of A Practice Set
The Bag
The bags purpose is to provide a continuous flow of air to the instrument so that there can be a continuous sound. They are usually made of leather but from time to time you will find a bad made of synthetic material. Into the bag are tied the blowpipe for the supply of air, the chanter and a stock into which the drones and regulators are inserted.
The Bellows
The bellows are tied around your waist and arm and push air into the bag. The Uilleann Pipes are not mouth blown like their louder cousin, the Highland bagpipes. This allows the reed to stay dry which in-turn allows the reed to be shaved thinner producing a more mellow sound and allows the instrument to play in 2 octaves compared to the mouth-blown Highland pipes that only have a range of 9 notes. It also allows the player to do some really cool embellishments that you will learn about later in your lessons.
The Chanter
The chanter is the part of the instrument upon which the melody is played. It has a double cane reed inside that produces the sound. The reed is covered by what is called a reed cap usually made of either metal or wood. They have a conical bore and ten note holes, nine on the front and 1 at the back that is covered with your thumb. It is open at the bottom, and the note sounded with the bottom open and all the finger holes closed is the keynote of the instrument.