Hello all. I’ve got a ‘spare’ gaita which I’m thinking of moving on. It’s made by Anton Varela of Ferrol, Galicia.
It’s in Do (C) made of boxwood, with bright metal rings. Chanter remains un-banana’ed, possibly because of the benign climate in South Wales (and before that, in Somerset) It has a second thumbhole for a flattened third, although it’ll crossfinger as well. I have that hole taped up at the moment, and it isn’t obvious.
It has two drones - ronco (bass) and ronqueta (tenor), tied into a leather bag. I’ve got a Seivane chanter reed in it at the moment (which is an easy blower as I lent it to a local youngster to try out) and the original drone reeds with metal tongues. Black bag cover, no tassels. It plays well. I’ll sort some photos out. Let me know if you’d like to see it.
Varela is selling these new for 800 Euros. You could make me an offer, or…
…I’d be happy to swap for a decent gaita in Re (D), or perhaps another key. I might chuck in a few quid to make up any difference if necessary. I’m also looking for a good keyed flute, so might be interested in one as well. Or a border pipe in G. or maybe some other pipes from somewhere else…
