When it comes to learning the pipes, practice, practice, practice, then practice some more...

There are only nine possible notes you can plan on the GHB, the hardest part I found was mastering the embellishments, (which I still haven't completed yet).

Get your initial direction and instruction from the close band, once you've graduated from the practice chanter to a full set of pipes, then you can seek additional instruction elsewhere.

Best of luck in your endeavors and keep us posted as to your progress.