When it comes to buying the best bagpipes, you will first need to consider a number of factors.
For example, the sound quality of different models varies greatly, meaning that you will need to find a product that matches your taste and style.
On top of this, the bagpipe is a relatively expensive instrument. Because of this, you will need to consider how much money you are willing to spend on your set of bagpipes.
Luckily for you, there are multiple brands of bagpipes for you to choose from. This includes a few of the most popular models on the market, such as Royal Stewart and Great Highland.
More so, there are a number of tools that you may want to invest in, such as chanter reeds and a practice chanter, especially if you are just starting to learn how to play this instrument.
As you can see, there is plenty to think about before you invest in a set of bagpipes.
For your convenience, we will be discussing five great options that you should definitely consider. We will also explain some of the advantages and disadvantages of each model, making the shopping process that much easier.
What Are Bagpipes?
In short, the bagpipe is a musical instrument in which the pressure of wind is used to make a sound.
Bagpipes use reed pipes in order to produce this noise. When the player applies pressure to the bag underneath their arm, the air inside will relocate and apply pressure to these pipes.
The pipe chanter is used to alter the sound produced when air escapes the bag. Some bagpipes only feature one pipe chanter, while others can have two or three.
This musical instrument is primarily associated with Scottish music. However, while the bagpipe is originally from that area, it is also used in areas of Ireland, and England, such as Northumberland.
Also, the bagpipe has spread to other areas around Europe, including France.
This instrument is becoming more and more popular due to its unique sound and culture. For this reason, many modern musicians are interested in buying their own set of bagpipes.
As we will discuss below, there are different types of bagpipes to choose from. These models can be distinguished by a number of factors, such as their bags and reeds.
Benefits Of Having And Playing Bagpipes
Just like the Native Australian didgeridoo, the bagpipe is known for its very unique and distinctive sound.
Due to its very loud tone and volume, this instrument is often used to play emotional songs, such as Amazing Grace or Scotland the Brave. In other words, the bagpipe produces a very personal and somewhat hypnotizing sound that many people find attractive.
While this instrument is becoming more and more popular, it is still mostly used in areas of the UK.
However, there are a number of benefits to learning how to play the bagpipes.
For example, like other wind instruments, playing the bagpipes will strengthen your lung capacity and improve your breathing.
On top of this, not many musicians are able to play this instrument, adding a layer of versatility to your resume.
If you become good enough, you may even be able to teach others how to play the bagpipes. Since these artists are in short supply, you wouldn't have much teaching competition.
With this being said, one of the main reasons why you should learn how to play the bagpipes is because it is a very unique instrument that is fun to play.
The Different Types Of Bagpipes
There are a variety of different bagpipes for you to choose from.
Highland bagpipes are some of the most popular on the market. Royal Stewart and Black Watch options are also incredibly popular, making them good models to consider.
The main difference between these three models lies in the bag.
You will need to decide which style or bagpipes you prefer. There are various options for you to choose from, including:
Each set of bagpipes mentioned above offers a unique sound quality. However, in order to find the best bagpipe for you, you will first need to consider your budget and skill level.
You will also be able to find bagpipes that are made out of different materials. While most traditional Scottish models feature goat or sheepskin, manufacturers are starting to make use of the synthetic bag. Once again, this drastically affects the sound quality of the product.
The different bagpipe models also feature unique chanters. You can decide which type of reed you would prefer, including drone reeds and chanter reeds.
Drone reeds have a different shape and sound when compared to chanter reeds. The pipe chanter also plays a massive role in the sound produced.
How To Choose The Right Bagpipes
Once you know the difference between the various types of bagpipes, you will need to decide which model you want to invest in.
It is important to note that finding the best bagpipe for you will involve plenty of research.
Firstly, you will need to consider how much money you are willing to spend on buying bagpipes. Most beginners will not want to invest in the best-sounding bagpipes, as they are very pricey.
For this reason, you will want to find an option that is both good quality and affordable.
Secondly, you should consider which style and type you prefer.
There are various reliable brands and manufacturers out there for you to choose from, including Roosebeck, AAR, and AC Kilts.
You should always opt for a set of bagpipes that are made by a trustworthy and popular brand, as they are more likely to meet your expectations.
The Best Bagpipes - A Complete Review With Comparisons
There are a number of important factors to consider if you are on the market for a set of bagpipes.
In order to make the shopping process a little easier for you, we will be listing and discussing a few great options that you may want to look into.
We have chosen certain models that are well-suited for beginner players. We will also mention sets that are perfect for experienced players or buyers on a budget.
1. AC Kilts Scottish Great Highland Bagpipes
The AC Kilts bagpipe model is made out of top-quality materials and used by some of the best pipers in the world.
These great highland bagpipes include a carrying case. However, many musicians claim that the case requires additional padding.
Weighing in at 5.6 pounds, this set of bagpipes is perfect for both beginner and experienced musicians.
The product also comes with synthetic drone reeds and a practice chanter.
If you are searching for a top-quality set of bagpipes, look no further than this option. The AC Kilts model is reasonably priced and looks incredible.
Review
There are a number of advantages to purchasing this model.
For starters, the bagpipes are made out of top-quality materials and will last you a very long time. This means that you will get plenty of use out of the purchase.
On top of this, they look great and are used by some of the best pipers in the world.
These bagpipes are reasonably priced and will provide you with good value for money. The model features a synthetic bag and rosewood pipes and can be used by both experienced and amateur pipers. They weigh roughly 5.6 pounds and are comfortable to hold.
While the model does come with a custom case, it could do with a little more padding. For this reason, you may need to buy an additional case in order to store the instrument properly.
These may just be the best set of professional bagpipes on the market.
Pros
Cons
If you are a beginner piper, these may be the best bagpipes for you.
Made out of top-quality materials, you will get plenty of use out of this purchase. The pipes are smaller when compared to other options on the list, making them much easier to hold and play.
Weighing in at 5.5 pounds, this bagpipe includes a carrying case and additional reed sets.
The bagpipes are also affordable, making them perfect for buyers on a strict budget.
However, it is essential to note that the pipes require some tuning.
Review
This set of AJW bagpipes are lightweight and incredibly easy to maneuver. This makes them perfect for beginner players who are not used to holding large and bulky pipes.
When compared to some of the other options on the list, these bagpipes are very affordable. You will get plenty of use out of this purchase, giving you good value for your money.
You will receive a carrying case with this purchase. However, it is important to note that you will need to tune these bagpipes relatively often.
You will also receive everything that you need in order to facilitate easy interactions. Once you become more experienced, you could always purchase more advanced pieces.
The blowstick and tubes of this bagpipe are made out of basswood. This produces a deeper and richer sound. The bag of the bagpipe is also made out of synthetic material.
Pros
Cons
This bagpipe is the best full-size Scottish model for beginners.
If you are searching for a reliable bagpipe that will last you for many years, this option may be perfect for you.
These bagpipes are available in 5 different colors, giving you plenty of choices. You will also receive a padded carrying case with the purchase and tutorial books on how to improve your playing.
Made out of top-quality materials, you will get plenty of use out of this purchase. However, it is important to note that these pipes require manual assembly in order to play.
This model is reasonably priced and will give you good value for your money.
Review
These bagpipes are full-size, meaning that they can be tricky to hold if you are an absolute beginner. However, they are designed in a way that makes them more comfortable to maneuver.
If you are shopping on a budget, this bagpipe may be calling your name. Made out of top quality materials, they will last you a long time and give you good value for your money.
These are definitely some of the best bagpipes on the market. The synthetic bag is incredibly strong and leak-resistant. More so, the blowstick and tubes are made out of rosewood, producing a very bright and distinctive sound.
These bagpipes are incredibly reliable and long-lasting. However, it is essential to note that you will need to assemble the bagpipe every time you wish to use it.
Pros
Cons
These are the best bagpipes for shoppers on a budget.
Made out of solid materials, this bagpipe will last you for a long time, giving you plenty of use out of the purchase.
If you are a beginner piper, this may not be the best choice for you. These bagpipes are bulkier when compared to other options on the list, making them difficult to hold and play.
With that being said, this bagpipe includes a case, reeds, and instructions on how to play specific songs.
Review
The bag of this bagpipe is made out of synthetic material. More so, the blowstick and tubes are made out of rosewood, offering a very bright and distinct sound.
Since these bagpipes are bulky, they are best suited to experienced players. If you are a beginner piper, you may want to look elsewhere.
The bagpipes include a number of vital components, including practice reeds and chanters. You will also receive a case with the purchase.
These bagpipes are perfect for players who are shopping on a budget. In addition, the bagpipes are very reasonably priced, meaning that you will get great value for your money.
Pros
Cons
If you value quality above all else, these bagpipes are perfect for you.
Made out of top-quality materials, this model will last you a very long time, giving you plenty of use out of the purchase.
However, it is important to note that this set of bagpipes are heavier than standard models, making them more suitable or experienced players.
Review
You will receive a number of components with this purchase, including a tutorial book, reeds, and a number of chanters. With that being said, a case is not included in the purchase.
These bagpipes feature a synthetic bag and rosewood tubes, which produce a very bright and distinctive sound.
This model weighs in at 5.8 pounds and is full-size - for this reason, they are not suitable for beginner players.
Pros
Cons
Bagpipe Care And Maintenance Tips
If you do not properly look after your set of bagpipes, you could encounter a number of issues down the line.
For this reason, we will be discussing some bagpipe care and maintenance tips that you should follow.
Keep your Bag Efficient
Bagpipes have a very straightforward and simple design. For this reason, they are also relatively easy to maintain. One of the biggest problems that you may encounter is a leak in the bag itself or the pipes.
In order to avoid this, you will need to inspect these components relatively often (especially if your bagpipes are old). This will ensure that your bagpipes remain efficient.
Keep your Pipes Healthy
If you go a long period of time without properly cleaning out your bagpipes, you may inhale dirty air while playing the instrument.
Because of this, you should clean your pipes after every performance - this is even more important if you live in a damp or wet region. This will prevent a build-up of mold and fungus.
Make Sure the Carrying Case is the Correct Size
Using a carrying case that is the incorrect size can cause damage to your bagpipes. In order to avoid this, make sure that you look for a product that is specifically designed for your model.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How Much Do Bagpipes Cost?
One of the main factors that you will need to keep in mind when selecting the best bagpipes for you is how much they cost.
If you purchase a set of very cheap bagpipes, you are likely to be disappointed with the quality and sound.
In general, you should not invest in a set cheaper than $300. Anything above this should be of good quality and produce a decent sound.
Some of the most expensive models on the market cost upwards of $7000. However, if you are looking for a set of beginner bagpipes, you should look to pay between $400 and $500.
It is important to note that bagpipes that feature a synthetic bag are usually cheaper than more traditional models.
2. What Are The Best Bagpipes For Beginners?
The bagpipe is a relatively difficult instrument to learn. For this reason, it is important that you invest in a model that will make this process as easy as possible for you.
A few of the best bagpipes to learn on include the AC Kilts Scottish Great Highland and AJW Starter Kit models. These are specifically designed bagpipes for beginners.
Both of these options feature a practice chanter, making them much easier to play.
3. Is It Hard To Learn The Bagpipes?
The bagpipe is a relatively difficult instrument to learn how to play.
There are specific models on the market that are much harder to play than others. For example, if you purchase a set of bagpipes that feature three pipe chanters, it will be much more complicated to play than a model with only one.
A practice canter can also be used to improve the playability of the instrument.
4. Are The Bagpipes Irish Or Scottish?
Bagpipes are generally seen as a Scottish instrument.
With that being said, variations of the bagpipe were discovered throughout the Middle East and Egypt during the 16th century. This has led experts to believe that bagpipes originated in these areas.
However, bagpipes, as we know them today, are Scottish instruments. Therefore, they play a massive role in the Scottish culture.
5. How Much Do Bagpipes Weigh?
The weight of bagpipes depends on several factors, including which material they are made out of and how many chanters they have. With that being said, most sets weigh around 5.5 pounds.
Conclusion
The bagpipes is a Scottish instrument that is becoming increasingly popular. There are a number of benefits that come with learning to play a set of bagpipes.
There are a variety of factors for you to think about if you are on the market for the best bagpipes.
For example, you will need to consider which bagpipe brand/manufacturer you prefer. More so, there are different types of bagpipes that each vary in playability and sound quality. If you are on a strict budget, you should look for a model that is reasonably priced.
For your convenience, we listed five great options that you may want to consider. Each option has its own advantages and disadvantages - you will need to decide exactly what you are looking for before investing in one model.
