I know that Tom Hall suggested the pracitce set made by the Boston maker, but I’d prefer a set that I can add the drones and regulators to over time. Also, having a set made from the traditional materials is part of the appeal.
I realize that there are sets that are even more expensive than these, but these are still within the amount that I’d be willing to spend, and seem to be of a high quality. I will be contacting the San Francisco Pipers Club–that would be a good way to begin before even buying a set. Thanks for that suggestion!
I have pipes by both O’Grady and Childress. Either maker would be able to satisfy you with a stable musical instrument, however the detailing of Childress’ pipes are far greater and the leather goods and metalwork are more robust. Plus, he’s able to do custom work should you desire it.
I’ve been playing an O’Grady half-set since September. I can’t really compare it to other sets, but I’m quite happy with it. I haven’t played with the reed much (I bought four but have only touched one so far). It plays very easily and in tune. True, the set doesn’t look as ‘fancy’ as some other sets, but for the price I was prepared to pay, as well as how long I was willing to wait, it is the perfect set for me.
I have a Robbie Hughes chanter with bellows and L&M hide bag with O’grady drones with plastic reeds and have not encountered any problems at all, I am very satisified with the drones.