So, in “The Art of Uilleann Piping, Vol. 1” by Na Piobri Uilleann, it’s stated that one should expect it to take 21 years to master the pipes:
7 years to learn, 7 to practice, and 7 to play.
Fair enough… it’s a complicated instrument. But… how long until one could, say, play for a mass or something?
Totally depends on how many hours you put in of productive practice. At your stage, it would also be super helpful to have some lessons with an experienced piper.
For a single data point, I’ve been playing for four years, and I’m very comfortable playing a slow air at my dads funeral next week. I probably wouldn’t be comfortable playing for dancers yet, but YMMV.
A few years regular (good quality) practice is enough for a superficial level of competence. There is something in the 21 years thing, though.
Sorry for your loss ,a parent passing away is hard .
RORY
Yes, we are sorry to hear about your loss. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
Thanks Rory and Dan.
Guau. Sorry for your loss.
I hope the service goes well.
Brilliant ! He reminds me of me, when I was that age .
RORY
21 years to muster the money to pay for them
Me three, or five, or whatever. The best advice I got when my mother was dying was from a prof, for whom I had at the time nothing to show. He got got it, and told me, èNothing prepares you for thatè. He was absolutely correct. My motherès death prepared me for my fatherès, but not enough.
