does anyone have any strong opinions about which grace-notes should be used to grace particular notes
i was taught once at a summer school to grace e with g (just the first finger of the top hand) and to grace f# in the same way (nipping it is what seamus ennis called this i think)
Do the thing that sounds best to your ear. I personally like three or four halfs bethween the grace and the landing note (G for E etc). But ir depends on the situation and how you want to sound. Same goes for whistle.
Samppa
Some pipers like to grace C#, Cnat, B, and A with back D; it gives a brighter attack and can be used as a rhythmic device, although it’s wise to guard against over-use. It’s a good trick to know how to do but don’t do it all the time.
Many will say similar things about gracing A with C#.
It’s perfectly acceptable to use the note immediately above for a cut, but not all the time. Variety is important.
F# in either octave is often graced with the A above it. 2nd octave F# and E sound good with two or more rapid cuts with the index finger of the right hand, producing a “shiver” or “shake”, a trick that Ennis was very fond of. You can also lift the chanter slightly while doing this ornament and the sudden increase in volume can be used for rhythmic effect. You have to keep your right hand and forearm very relaxed to do a shiver.
Use 'em all, I say, just try to be mindful of what you’re doing.