getting into the second octive...

Uilleann Pipes
1

Hello,
When going from the back D to the second octive B, although I increase pressure on the bag I just cannot seem to make the jump.
I can access the second octive with no problem when playing up the scale.
Any suggestions are most welcome.
All the best,
Wayne

2

Hi Wayne,

You’re probably going to have to close the chanter a split second after the back D, produce a “cheating” slight second octave G before hitting the second octave B. I once saw Tommy Martin do this by closing the chanter, then raising it slightly off the apron and then going to the second octave B, but I don’t think every chanter will do this.

Good luck,
Dan

3

I had that problem but it was mostly that I was not completely closing the back “D” before opening the second octave note (I had problems with “G” also).
I had to move my thumb a bit faster and then I got the note easily.

If the reed is a little hard to play, it will be worse.

Tim

4

Thank you for the input, I appreciate your time.
Wayneo

5

Second 8ve A and B are a challenge. The only way I can hit them and not lose the octave is to play a one-finger G or one-finger F then lift fingers for the A or B. I lift fingers of the top hand as fingers of the bottom hand move to close the holes. With lots of practice your fingers will move faster and that one-finger G will go by so fast that no one will know.

Rowsome has a exercise in his tutor that jumps from first 8ve scale to second 8ve.
For second 8ve A, he suggests closing the chanter, then doing a one-finger F to A.
For second 8ve B, he suggests closing the chanter, then doing a one-finger F to A to B.

Most pipers today recommend doing a one-finger G instead of a one-finger F. Whatever you choose, pick one and stay with it. Practice the move enough to get it into muscle memory.

6

found this: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yS_RQ_4a3N4

7

Yea brilliant, thanks for all your help fellows.
I have somethings to consider as a way to make this happen.
All the best,
Wayneo