If you want to pipe, don't wait for free lessons. Call up the band contact number and ask if anyone gives private lessons. Generally, the more individualized attention you get, the better the results you can expect.

The local pipe band in Fairbanks has offered free lessons more than once. There are only a couple of pipers still around who learned for free. The folks who pay for lessons tend to learn faster and stick around a lot longer.

If this is something you want to do, spend the cash (probably $25 a week) and get yourself private lessons. And you probably won't have to do them on a work night!

-Patrick