The stories behind Pipe tunes

[Blupiper]

One of the first piobaireachd I learned was Sir James MacDonald of the Isles Salute. It had an interesting story, involving a visit of the afore-named noble, a hunting party, the accidental shooting of the noble in the foot and this tune composed when he was out of danger and on the mend. It is a more celebratory tune, to show the host's happiness there was no tragedy involved and to reassure the noble's kinsmen there was no ill intent. Rumor has it that the tune has an unofficial nickname of 'Salute to the Wee Footie.' Here's some more info: http://www.bagpipe-tutorials.com/james-macdonald.html


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