Thank you OC Richard for that detailed explanation. I haven't heard "crossing noises" but it sounds like I wouldn't like it! Long ago, I did play the clarinet, although I was not very good at it, but I think I remember something similar. It is a good reminder that I should get my scales down!

My teacher says I will probably spend a year on the chanter before picking up the pipes. He says there are good plastic pipes. Still not cheap, but less than African black wood. He says he has a set for when he plays in the rain. The pipes that came with the kilt I won in a auction are junk, as I expected. The kilt and the drummer's plaid are very nice, but the kilt is a little small. Motivation to continue the weight loss program I'm on. I've already lost 10 lbs!

Dave