Looking at getting myself a half set on order as a Christmas pressy to replace my practice set as the chanter so out of of tune in the second register it is not worth upgrading - some notes are sharp and others flat so it is beyond simple reed placement. Have been struggling with the thing for almost a year now and did not realise just how bad it was until I tried a Brian Howard set - wow - playing suddenly became a pleasure and switching between octaves a breeze instead of a fight
My nearest makers from the NPU website appear to be either Hubert Kwisthout in Lincoln or Stephen McCordick in Derby - would like a Brian Howard set but cannot afford it - any opinions
Met Andy the other night, nice guy. He’s working some with Cillian, not sure where he’s physically based these days. On that basis he’s certainly worth checking out if he’s periodically in your region. As with any maker, you really should try before you buy if at all possible.
BTW, reed problems can sometimes cause a mixture of flat and sharp notes in the second octave; that said, it does sound as though you’re being “held back” by your current chanter. While there are probably bargains around, I wouldn’t count on finding one; save your pennies for the best you can get (and for travel to a regional piping event where you can hear and hopefully try stuff).
Andy’s based in Bedford. He’s making me a chanter at present, should be ready by the end of January. He’s a nice guy and will always let you visit. If you want his contact details, pm me and I’ll send them to you. Also watch out on NPU website as he will soon be adding his details there.
And there is Chris Bayley in Redhill, maker of very fine pipes indeed. I had a go at his own (at the time) D-set not too long ago. Chanter was easier to manage than my own Williams stick - sweet and very easy to play.
