Questions on technique in the Groves Hornpipe

Uilleann Pipes
1

This tune is probably above my skill level right now, but i can’t help but love it. The part I’m having trouble with, you probably know, is (using H. Clarkes book as reference for notation) the fourth part with the triplets. I can play my triplets okay but the phrasing is throwing me off in the F C ABC bars. Was wondering how some of you specifically play this part. Are the C’s played nat. or # ? Do you silence the chanter between F and C, or some place else? Play an ACA triplet in place of? Legato or Staccato?

The problem I guess I’m having, is not knowing whether to put my F finger back down or leave it open, or open it again. It also sounds sloppy and bad no matter what i seem to do. So i thought maybe you guys could give some advice.

And somewhat related, as I’ve been trying to listen to others play it I came across a seemingly unique technique that Brian MacNamara uses in the second part, on the F rolls. Its on his “Piper’s Dream” album, 2nd time through, 2nd part, repeat. It starts around 2:55. Kinda sounds like a cran. I tried slowing it down in transcribe but still can’t really make it out. From what i heard though, he seems to do a kind of elaborate roll kinda like FGAGFEF??? if that makes sense. Anyone have any insight?

Thanks for any help!!

2

I think that whether or not you play the triplet tight (ABC#) or not (ABC), playing F#C# before it sounds odd. Other than getting the style and feel of this tune right, I think that getting the fourth part under your fingers is the trick to having this tune.

dave boling

3

Sounds like a double-cut roll to me.

t