Complete Beginner

Uilleann Pipes
1

H Folks,

Like time lurker, first time poster. :slight_smile:

I moved from Ireland to New Hampshire two years ago. I used to play the tin whistle years ago, and I’ve decided I want to start playing the Uilleann Pipes. I’ve always loved the instrument but the waiting times on a set back in Ireland prevented me from starting. I also knew I would be moving and didn’t realize how big the instrument was in America. I kind of dropped the ball there. :party:

Anyway, long story short. I was hoping to get a practice set/beginner set to see if I could get the hang of it. However I was hoping that I could add to this set as time went on, but most of the sets I have found don’t recommend adding to them if they are a budget set.

For example: Whistle & Drum – Irish Tin Whistles, Flutes, Bodhráns & More

I was going to buy from David Daye but the set would not be available until next year and I was hoping to start classes in September of this year. David has been ill for the past few years too and he’s not sure of when he would have the set completed which is most unfortunate.

Anyway - just wondering if any of you have bought from Patrick Sky, because it looks like I’m going to end up buying his regular practice set or the deluxe.


Thanks! :slight_smile:

2

As luck would have it, Brian Bigley has kindly offered to make me a practice set. He has said that I will be able to upgrade/add to it no problem. He’ll have it ready in two months, just in time for me to start lessons in September.

Have any of you received a set from him before? He was recommended to me by the guy teaching the classes I’ll be doing in Boston.

3

Is that Joey or Pat teaching you?

Either way, I’d trust their judgement. But you could also go to Steph and Tim Benson.

4

That will be Joey. :slight_smile:

5

I never played Brian’s stuff, but was present when Joey did. The chanter sounded great, and seemed to play fine. Hands-on is very different than listening, though. I know Tim and Steph’s stuff a lot better, but both Brian and Tim communicate with each other (and are good friends), so I imagine you’ll be fine. At any rate, I’m sure the chanter will play, and with Joey as your teacher you should be set.

6

Lovely stuff. Thanks. :slight_smile: