Can't get that low 'D'

Uilleann Pipes
1

Folks,

I have just picked up the pipes again after a wee hiatus. On running through scales, I find it very difficult to hit the low “d” It seems to want a to jump too high (if that makes any sense). Should I lower the bridle a bit on the reed? I can’t remember how I used to fix that (if I ever did).

Thanks,

Ed

2

An easy trick to hit the bottom D each time is to introduce it with a quick cut on the A first. Ennis mentions this in The Master’s Touch.

djm

3

Eamon, your avatar is awesome. I love the movie Braveheart, and that particular character is hilarious. Sorry I’m not able to help on your pipes, but I just thought your photo was great…
Eric

4

DJM, thanks, I will give that a try this morning. To get it (the bottom D) to make any noise, though, I really have to squeeze the bag hard, and it tries to jump an octave…but I would rather not mess with the reed if I can avoid it.

A noob and a reed is a dangerous combination…

Eric, thanks, glad you like the Avatar. Stephen is quite the character, and that expression just about says it all.

Ed

5

DJM,

Thanks for the help. I dug up my “Master’s Touch” tutor and re-read what he had to say about the low ‘D’, and tried the ‘a’ grace note to lead it. It almost worked, but it wasn’t right. I moved the bridle a tiny bit, and wow, the difference was amazing. No probs now, they sound great.

Now, back to lesson 5 and the “friars hill”

Thanks again,

Ed