Private Lessons
Duncan provides experienced instruction to anyone interested in learning how to play the bagpipes. His lessons are tailored to each student's individual skill level, enabling them to learn at their own pace and achieve their musical goals. Duncan holds a Bachelor's Degree in Music Education from the University of Massachusetts Amherst and has been teaching since 2018.
Phase One
The Practice Chanter
Students learning to play the bagpipes always begin on the practice chanter. The chanter lets students focus on the fingerwork and technique required to play tunes on the pipes. Throughout this phase you will learn how to read all the pitches, rhythms, and embellishments as well as master a number of tunes before transitioning to the full bagpipes. Phase One typically lasts between 6 - 9 months. A practice chanter and instructional book are provided at the first lesson.
Phase Two
Great Highland Bagpipes
Phase Two is the transition over to the bagpipes. This is often a big challenge for young players to overcome, but Duncan's method has eased the gap between the two phases. Phase Two focuses on learning the fundamentals of steady blowing, proper posture, and mastering a variety of tune styles including marches, strathspeys, reels, jigs, hornpipes, and more.
Phase Three
Performance and Competition
After developing a full sound on the pipes and mastering a number of tunes, you have the opportunity to participate in numerous solo and group performances. There are many local solo competitions hosted by the Eastern United States Pipe Band Association (EUSPBA). These competitions are designed to improve the quality of piping in a positive, supportive environment. These contests are held often between the months of April and September.
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Another opportunity for performance is to join a pipe band. These bands participate in parades and band contests throughout New England, or sometimes beyond!
"Duncan is a fantastic instructor. His lessons are structured so that you always feel that you're making progress, and he makes the process fun as well." - Webb