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Writer's pictureMelvin Reeds

Don’t Get Judged by Your Bagpipes

The off-season is the perfect time to focus on maintaining your bagpipes and keeping them in excellent condition for the upcoming season. Whether it's ensuring your reeds stay mold-free or giving your pipes a full cleaning, taking these steps now will save you a lot of trouble later. Here are a few key tips to keep your pipes at their best during the break.

1. Airflow is Key

If you haven’t played your pipes in about three days, here’s a quick and easy tip to prevent mold from growing on your chanter reed: take the chanter cap off for about 20 seconds to allow fresh air to circulate. When the cap stays on for too long, stale air gets trapped inside, creating a damp environment where mold can thrive. A little fresh air will keep your reed in good shape, ensuring it’s ready to play when you are.


2. Keep Playing, Even in the Off-Season

Although it might be tempting to take a long break, it's important to continue playing your pipes regularly, even during the off-season. Frequent short practice sessions are better than letting them sit unused for weeks. Regular playing keeps the reeds responsive and ensures your pipes stay in good working order. Plus, it helps maintain your own skills and muscle memory, so you’re not starting from scratch when the new season begins.


3. Disassemble, Clean, and Maintain Your Pipes

Now’s the time to give your pipes a thorough cleaning. Start by removing all the hemp from the joints. Over time, hemp can trap moisture and dirt, which can cause problems with fit and airtightness. After removing the hemp, clean the joints with a soft brush or cloth to get rid of any dirt or residue.


4. Oil and Wax for Blackwood and Other Woods

If your pipes are made from African blackwood, cocobolo, or other woods that require oiling, the off-season is the perfect time to apply a thin coat of bore oil. This helps prevent the wood from drying out, which can lead to cracks or warping. Make sure to oil the bores lightly and evenly.

For the exterior, consider waxing the wood. A good wax will protect the finish and help seal the wood against moisture, while also giving your pipes a beautiful shine.


5. Drone Reeds Don’t Last Forever

Drone reeds, like any part of your bagpipes, wear down over time. The off-season is a great opportunity to assess the condition of your drone reeds. If they’re starting to sound dull, require frequent adjustment, or just aren’t performing the way they used to, it might be time to invest in a new set of drone reeds.


Getting a fresh set now gives you time to properly break them in and balance them well before the 2025 season kicks off. Balanced drone reeds make a huge difference in the stability of your sound, so it’s worth the investment to ensure they’re in top condition when the new season starts.


6. Don’t Forget the Bag

If you have a natural bag like sheepskin or hide, make sure it's properly seasoned during the off-season to keep it airtight. For synthetic bags, check for any signs of wear or leaks, particularly around the zipper or tie-ins. Whether your bag is natural or synthetic, a quick inspection can help avoid any unpleasant surprises next season.


7. Reeds Need Attention Too

Your chanter and drone reeds both need to be stored properly to maintain their longevity. Keep your reeds in a stable, breathable environment—not too dry and not too humid. If your chanter reed feels hard to play, sluggish, or just doesn’t have the same brightness it used to, consider breaking in a new one so it's ready when you need it.


8. Don’t Get Judged by Your Bagpipes

A poorly maintained set of pipes will speak louder than your playing. You don’t want to be the piper who gets judged for an instrument that sounds out of tune or looks neglected. Proper maintenance is crucial—not just for the life of your pipes, but for your reputation as a player. When you step up to play, make sure your instrument reflects the pride you have in your craft. After all, the better your pipes are maintained, the better they’ll perform for you.


9. You Are in Control

Remember, you’re in control of the condition of your pipes. It's your responsibility to maintain an instrument that’s band ready at all times. By dedicating a little time to caring for your pipes during the off-season, you're ensuring that your pipes will be in prime condition when the band is back together. Don’t wait until the last minute—start now, and be confident that you’ll show up with an instrument that’s in perfect working order and ready to play its part in the ensemble.

 

Taking the time to care for your bagpipes during the off-season ensures they’ll be in perfect playing condition when the new season begins. A little maintenance goes a long way toward extending the life of your pipes and keeping them sounding their best.


Happy playing,

Adrian Melvin

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