Learning the Northumbrian Smallpipes

The Northumbrian Smallpipes (NSP) are unique amongst British bagpipes having a closed chanter which gives rise to its characteristic staccato sound. NSP come in a variety of pitches, and have a rich and unique repertoire as well as a pleasing tone which makes them particularly suitable for indoor/home practise and playing in duets with other instruments. Becky will help get you off to a good start aiming to get you playing your first tune within a month of getting going.

Lessons are offered at the following stages of piping:-

Northumbrian Smallpipes played by Becky Taylor made by Colin Ross
  • Complete Beginner
  • Intermediate/Improvers
  • Advanced

Beginners:
Beginners lessons focus on establishing the basics of good piping technique:-

  • Essential Bag and Bellows technique.
  • Basic fingering and scales.
  • Keys
  • Drones and tuning.
  • Posture and hand positioning.
  • Dealing with squeaks and leaks!
  • Your first tune.

This will help you make quick progress and establish a solid basis when you move ahead to Intermediate/Improvers and Advanced levels:

  • Increasing Repertoire (more tunes!)
  • Tips and tricks.
  • Ornamentation.
  • Developing your style.
  • Pipe fettling! How to keep your pipes in good playing condition.
  • How to ‘practise’ and improve your playing.
  • Preparing for performance.

Contact becky@beckytaylor.info for further details and to arrange your lesson