No one knows the true origin of the bagpipes, as it is quite hard to track that far back in time. Bagpipes have been said to have been first played in Scotland in the 12th Century, making them the oldest and most successful instrument, as well as Scotland's national instrument.
A bagpipe isn't the easiest instrument to play. Wind is blown into the mouth piece, which fills up the leather bag. Then, by squeezing the bag, air is forced through the drones, and out the chanter (where the piper plays the tune).
The original bagpipe was somewhat different from the appearance they possess now. It is said that the earliest bagpipe had a chanter, bag, mouth piece, and a single drone. By about the 16th-17th century, the bagpipes began to evolve to their present appearance. Three drones; one bass drone, which harmonizes with the two tenor drones. All three drones are tuned with the pitch of the pipe chanter. The drones, as well as a mouth piece and pipe chanter are connected to a leather bag.
In ancient times, the bagpipes led Scottish regiments into battle. It is said that the sound put fear into the enemies hearts. The most common event that bagpipes are played are at now are burials, along with the tune, Amazing Grace. Very often though, they are played at weddings, for highland dances obviously, and just for pure entertainment. |
