Like so many people who live south of the border in England, Helen thought that she knew all about Scotland. It was a part of Britain after all, a place that was surely more the same than it was different. But then she actually went there – and everything changed...

"Beyond the Bagpipes: A Comprehensive Guide to Playing, Learning, and Enjoying the Highland Pipes" is a must-read for anyone interested in learning the art of bagpipe playing or looking to take their skills to the next level. This book provides a thorough and comprehensive introduction to the history, culture, and technical aspects of playing the bagpipes. Beginning with an overview of the instrument's history and cultural significance, the book covers everything from the different types of bagpipes to the basics of music theory, tuning the bagpipes, and proper playing techniques. Readers will learn how to play a variety of tunes, from traditional Scottish melodies to contemporary compositions, and discover how to play with others in a pipe band or ensemble. Beyond the technical aspects of playing the bagpipes, the book explores the rich history and culture of the instrument, from famous pipers throughout history to the role of bagpipes in popular culture today. This book aims to provide readers with a deep appreciation for the tradition and beauty of the bagpipes. Written in a clear and engaging style, this book is accessible to beginners while also providing valuable insights for experienced pipers. It is an essential resource for anyone who loves the sound of the bagpipes and wants to learn how to play them or improve their skills. Whether you aspire to play in a pipe band, perform at special events, or simply enjoy playing the bagpipes in your own time, "Beyond the Bagpipes" is the ultimate guide to mastering this iconic instrument.

A funny Scottish twist on a much-loved rhyme from the best-selling illustrator of There Was a Wee Lassie who Swallowed a Midgie.

Originally published in 1975, and written by an authority on Scottish music, this book traces the evolution of the bagpipe whilst also narrating the fortunes of the ‘Great Highland Bagpipe’ itself. Exploring history and archaeology of civilizations as far removed from the Scottish Highlands as Egypt and Mesopotamia, Greece and Rome this book offers a unique full-length history of one of the world’s most interesting and ancient musical instruments. Appendices list the bagpipes of other countries and the materials used in the instrument’s manufacture as well as a comprehensive bibliography.

Bagpipe Tunes and Their Stories - Old Times to 1950 - Volume 1 Take a fascinating trip through the world of bagpipe music: a journey in time covering the history of this wonderful instrument. Bagpipe Tunes and Their Stories: Old Times to 1950 features stories behind the unique bagpipe tunes that were composed before 1950. Bagpipes are at the centre of a vibrant culture that has grown over many generations and continues to fascinate music lovers throughout the world. This book unearths stories connected with well-known tunes that were played and written before 1950. A tribute to the rich heritage of bagpipe music, it is captivating reading for long-time bagpipe enthusiasts as well as people less familiar with this distinctive instrument. You will become acquainted with a wide range of bagpipe tunes, from the Scottish Highlands to the hills of Ireland and beyond. In addition, you will learn about the occasions for which they were composed and interpreted. Author Susy Klinger, a well-known music expert and bagpipe enthusiast, has put her broad-ranging knowledge and passionate musical interest into this book. She has done many years of research in Scotland and neighbouring countries, conducted numerous interviews with famous pipers and thoroughly studied bagpipe music in order to put together this collection of stories and personal portraits. The book is a treasure chest of musical discoveries, encompassing everything from traditional ballads to lively dance melodies. The wealth of information on bagpipe tunes is supplemented by carefully selected photos and illustrations that bring the atmosphere and culture of the relevant period to life. Each page is an invitation to delve into the past and become absorbed in stories of times gone by. Order your copy now and let yourself be inspired by this fascinating survey of music history.

All over the world people associate the bagpipes with Scotland. In this informative and entertaining book, Stuart McHardy introduces Scotland's national instrument - its history, development and repertoire - and examines the part that the piper himself has played in Highland and Lowland society over the centuries. The main bulk of the book is a series of thematically grouped tales from all periods and parts of the country in which we see aspects of traditional lore in stories of warriors, musicians, ghostly battles, the hand of friendship, exemplary heroism and the cost of supernatural help. There are tales of the MacCrimmons, the most famous island pipers of all, as well as Habbie Simpson, who was possibly the most famous of all the Lowland pipers. Whether dealing with great bravery or contemptible jealousy, the supernatural or the mundane, these stories reflect the central role that the bagpipes have played, and continue to play, in Scottish traditional culture.