Join the Band
Whether you’re new to drums or the Great Highland Bagpipes, or are brushing up on old skills, band members are available to provide lessons. We welcome kids and adults alike who are interested in learning an instrument. Already know how to play? We’re always looking for new members. For lessons or for inquiries on how to join the Madison Pipes and Drums, fill out the form at the bottom of the page.
Piping
If you’re just starting out, don’t rush out and buy a set of bagpipes just yet! You will start on a practice chanter. Similar to a recorder, a practice chanter is a mouthblown instrument that allows you to learn instrument fingering, embellishments, and new tunes. You will continue to use your practice chanter even after working on the full bagpipes, so purchasing one you’ll be happy with for years is important. Your instructor can help you identify the right chanter for you, but expect to pay $60-100 for one.
After about nine months on a practice chanter, most students are ready to begin work on the bagpipes, and will later graduate to becoming a member of the band. Your bagpipe tutor will help you with the purchase of a set of appropriate bagpipes when you are ready.
Drumming
Drumming in a pipe band is a fun and exciting experience! A full pipe band drum corps includes bass, tenor, and snare drums.
Drummers must purchase appropriate drum sticks and pads, and you can expect to pay about $50 for them. The band provides drums when you are ready to join.
Snare
Modern Scottish highland snare drumming is a combination of Swiss rudimental drumming and an offbeat swing style that comes from the jazz and big band traditions of the 1950s. We play using a traditional grip and use very high tension drum that demands impeccable technical precision.
Midsection
The midsection is made up of a bass drum and one or more tenor drums. The drums are typically tuned to different pitches allowing them to add both a rhythmic and melodic accompaniment. Additionally, tenor drummers flourish swinging and spinning their sticks in a choreographed way that adds a powerful visual component to the band.