Can anybody give me their sugestion on a maker of a good 1/2set of practice pipes (who also supplies reeds) in the U.S.
I am getting ready to place an order with David Daye (http://www.daye1.com/pennychanter.html). He seems to have a good reputation on this board for making a good product, at an affordable price. The two reasons I am going with him for my first set.
Are you looking for a practice set or a 1/2 set? A practice set is bellows, bag and chanter. A 1/2 set is bellows, bag, chanter and 3 drones. If you’re new to uilleann piping, you should read the FAQ thread on this forum.
I think that all good makers provide reeds. Or to put it another way, I’d be suspicious of a set offered by its maker if it wasn’t already reeded?
Some people will encourage you to choose a maker who lives relatively close to you, so you can visit him to have problems sorted. Let us know what city/state/country you’re in and you’ll have suggestions for the makers who are nearby.
Poster appears to be located in northern Louisiana, USA.
Patrick Sky is far and away one of the best in the “budget” market. And he’d be one of the closest I believe as well.
Nick Whitmer!!!
As far as i know, he makes pipes, ready for playing. It is very important, if it is your first pipes.