Frequently Asked Questions
Do I have to be Scottish or Irish to play in a bagpipe band?
Absolutely not! Although this style of music is traditionally Scottish and Irish, anyone can learn, and many players have no Scottish or Irish ancestry.
Who plays in bagpipe bands?
There are many different kinds of people that play in bagpipe bands. Some relate to their Scottish or Irish heritage, some are musicians who have aged out of school music programs and wish to continue to play with musical organizations, and other simply love the sound of bagpipes!
What instruments are in a bagpipe band?
A bagpipe band is composed of bagpipes, snare drums, tenor drums, and a bass drum.
What is involved in learning the bagpipes or drums?
Pipers start by leaning on a practice chanter, which is similar to a recorder, before moving on to a full set of bagpipes. Snare drumming students learn with pipe band drum sticks and a practice pad, and tenor and bass students learn to play rhythms and flourish with mallets. All students learn music theory and how to read and write music.
What performance opportunities are available?
The band performs at a variety of events around the Lancaster, and greater Philadelphia area, as well as in New York, and Maryland. Performance can be divided into two categories, parades and events, and competitions. Parades allow for a fun atmosphere to share our music with the public, particularly on major holidays. Competitions provide a motivation to continually strive for musical growth, and allow members of the band to showcase their talents. Band members are expected to participate in both parades and competitions. Take a look at our Schedule for upcoming performances.
How long does it take to learn the bagpipes or drums?
The time required to progress from practice chanter to bagpipes or practice pad to snare drum depends on many things, such as the previous musical experience, time spent practicing, and the capability focus of the student. Therefore, progression can take anywhere from about six months to two years.
How old do I have to be to start learning?
A good age to begin learning to play the bagpipe or drums is 8 or 9 years old, and there is no age limit to how old you can be to start learning. Whether you are a kid, or just a kid at heart, the only thing you need is an open mind and a desire to learn!
How are lessons conducted and when are they held?
Lessons are conducted either in small groups or through one-on-one sessions with a private instructor.
Lessons are available at our practice hall each Wednesday evening at 6:00 pm, and typically last at least 30-45 minutes. Private instruction is also available, with rates and locations determined by each instructor.
Who are the instructors?
All of our instructors are playing members of the Ceòl Nèamh Pipe Band, with extensive performance and competition experience. This ensures that you receive a high quality education and a solid foundation from which you are able to reach your maximum potential as a musician. Our goal is to train high quality musicians with a love of this traditional style of music.
What does is cost, and how do we raise money?
Costs:
Most of the costs for a new student goes towards tuition and instruments. While these costs vary depending on the specific items purchased, an estimated price is given below:
Practice chanter: $70
Bagpipes: $1,000 (not required for beginners)
Practice pad and drum sticks: $75
Tenor mallets: $75
Bass mallets: $75
For more specific information on suggested instruments/materials or specific retailers, please contact us.
Funding:
While the Ceòl Nèamh Pipe Band is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, it still takes money to run. From uniforms, to instrument supplies, it takes a lot of money to run a band. To raise money for these expenses, members are expected to participate in parades and other public/private performances. Other funding sources include donations and sponsorship.
Are there opportunities to be involved as a non-playing member of the band?
Of course! It takes a lot to run a pipe band. Aside from playing members, you can get involved in band leadership, fundraising, and performance assistance. If you are interested in ways to be involved in this organization, let us know!