Semple approach to Traditional Highland Dress

[OC Richard]

This reminds me of other issues pipers face, like volume.
Potential client (PC): "Can't you just blow softer?"
Bagpiper (BP):"No, this is a reed instrument and the reeds require a certain amount of air pressure to make sound..."
PC:"But <insert instance of recorded pipes played over a movie scene or on television> was quiet!"
BP:"Yes, and that was a recording, not live. If you want a similar effect, use a recording or have me play at a distance."
PC:"But I want a live piper right there!"

Oi oi. Been there!

Some sidelights:

1) I also play Scottish Smallpipes and Uilleann pipes so I'll mention these as alternatives.
I recently did a gig that was Smallpipes only, a whisky tasting in an intimate small-pub setting. There have been quite a few gigs over the years which ended up being Smallpipes only.

2) I have two sets of Highland pipes, one at 480-484 for the Pipe Band, the other at 466 for playing with pipe organ etc. I've sound that the 466 set is easier on people's ears, and I'll usually play those for indoor things that don't require smallpipes.

3) From at least c1780 to c1930 all the leading pipe makers offered pipes in three volume levels. They wouldn't have considered playing the big pipes indoors! It wasn't until the 1930s that all the leading makers dropped the smaller sizes/softer-sounding pipes from their price lists.

"Let me direct you to <the next piper that does gigs in the area>. Maybe they can help you."

That sounds like my strategy!

I have the number of a very good piper who charges twice what all the other pipers charge. I give his number to clients who say I'm charging too much.

I have the number of a very good piper who is a short-tempered and has no patience for high-maintenance people. I give his number to clients who are high-maintenance people.