Jacksonville Pipes and Drums



Technical Bagpipe/Drum Solutions to Common ProblemsThere are often more than just a couple options to fixing bagpipe and drum issues. The trick is to decide which has the least DETRIMENTAL side effects while correcting the presenting issue.Make reviewing this collection like a multiple-choice game and see how many you get “right.” There is no set order, just a mix of piping, drumming, and band issues. No peeking at the recommended answers until you make your own choice! Your answer does NOT need to be from the provided options. Use your experience. Share your solutions. I will be all-to-happy to add your tricks to this document.Table of ContentsIssuePageHigh A is Flat but the rest of the scale is true . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2Bass drone roars or fails to strike in reliably . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4Can’t keep the bag inflated, or I tire easily . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6Moisture condenses in my drones/reeds, causing tuning and cut-out problems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8Snare drums sound flat and “chokey” . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10Timing not as Pipe Major calls off . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12Tone going off in some tunes but not others . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14Pipe section and Drum section not in unison . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16Rolls not Together or Pulsed . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18Drones unsteady . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20Drones or E not together on attack . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22Loud high-pitched Squeal on Low Hand . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24New issues to be added as the group identifies them . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26Issue: High A is Flat but the rest of the scale is true.Possible Solutions:1. Blow harder until High A matches Low A (using a meter - looking for about 476 +/-2 Hz)Side effects:Reed squawks on E or Low A because it is overblown at that pressure on the low handsPipes no longer comfortable, causing fatigue before completing a full playing sessionDrones cut out (especially if well-balanced to old chanter pressure)2. Weaken the chanter reed slightlySide effects:Can get the same overblown E or Low A as aboveEarly E on strike-in3. Sink reed into chanter farther until High A is around 476 at your comfortable pressureSide effects:Lower notes no longer true, usually very sharp. Would require tape on almost every note.Tape destroys timbre and volume as the holes are modified with tape that is softer than the wood/plastic chanter.High A and Low A no longer in balance at 476 +/-2 HzDoes nothing for the problem of feeling like you have to squeeze the bag hard4. Start with a whole new reedSide effects:Usually need a LOT of extra reedsMost new reeds are "hard" to blow until broken inAll new set of issues come in with scale notes not balanced with a different reedMy Answer: _________ My Reason/Logic: My Results:Recommended Answer (open to discussion)The issue was: High A is Flat but the rest of the scale is trueTo me, it sounds like this piper has not found the "sweet spot" pressure Piper's Dojo talks about. You can get the correct pressure when mouth blowing the chanter, just not in the pipes. I suggest solution #2. Squeeze the top 1/3 of the reed together for a count of 10 to weaken it slightly. At the same time, since you must be very close to the magic pressure as demonstrated by getting it right when mouth blowing, try to increase pressure ever-so-slightly while playing the pipes. It might be as simple as changing your paradigm to try to keep the bag as full as you possibly can. Don't think "more pressure" as much as you might think "keep-it-full." That allows the mouth blowing pressure to be the norm, rather than feeling like you have to squeeze the bag really hard. Blow longer to control this pressure, then take a quick breath and blow again to keep the bag full and at the pressure you control by your blowing. Think of it like a sprint when you are already winded. Take in needed air as fast as you can, fill the bag back up quickly, keep that pressure by blowing, but take another very quick breath before you tire from blowing too long. I often wonder if I ever really break-in a reed or if the REED actually forces me to adjust my blowing to its own sweet spot. Sometimes, the physical work-out in the breaking-in process makes me feel like I’ve actually gained some endurance or stamina by the time I overcome the stubborn new reed.Issue: Bass drone roars or fails to strike in reliably.Possible Solutions:Make the tongue shorter by moving the bridle.Side effects:Reed will sharpen, requiring the drone to be lengthened. May have to adjust tuning peg/screw/clay in the reed cap.Drone may cut out at chanter pressure.Use a tone enhancer in the base of the drone stock.Side effects:Drone enhancer may not always open at correct pressure.Dust in the felt (depending on the brand) may constrict airflow.Ensure top tuning pin is maximized to provide a good resonance chamber.Side effects:May need to add/remove hemp for best airtight seal while still tight enough to hold drone and loose enough to adjust with one hand.Use a different brand of drone reed.Side effects:May need to adjust all bridles and ensure tight reed fit in the reed seat.Use an inverted bass drone reed (tongue opens at the end of the reed nearest the drone).Side effects:May need to adjust all bridles and ensure tight reed fit in the reed seat.Use a cane bass drone reed.Side effects:May need to adjust all bridles and ensure tight reed fit in the reed seat.Cane requires more attention to keep moisture at a constant state.Cane reeds may have varying bridle tensions as well as placement.Cane reeds may need tongue lifted or a hair placed as a fulcrum to keep them open.Note:In spite of issue with cane drone reeds, many top pipers are returning to using at least a cane bass drone reed.My Answer: _________ My Reason/Logic: My Results:Recommended Answer (open to discussion):The issue was: Bass drone roars or fails to strike in reliably.Most of the time, solution #1 is best – adjust the bridle. An added benefit to making the tongue shorter, and subsequently less open, can be that the reed will require less air. This makes the pipes more efficient and the piper will tire less easily.Odd as it may sound, the location on the bag and how hard one strikes-in the pipes can make a difference. In recent adjustments, I have found it best to hardly “strike” the bag at all. Rather, allow the drones to double-tone for the short period between the first sound and then reaching the correct pressure for the Chanter to sound the first E. Trial and error MUST be exercised to ensure that the double-tone WILL resolve itself reliably each and every time.Tenor drones need to be similarly set up/balanced to Chanter pressure. The roaring Bass issue is the one that is the hardest to resolve, though. Start on the Tenor drones for practicing the technique before you take on that pesky Bass.Issue: Can’t keep the bag inflated, or I tire easily. This is often accompanied by chanter chokes (stopping) or flat notes (especially D, F, G, or High A).Possible Solutions:1. Season the leather with a brand name seasoning (recommend Hardie Airtight).Side effects:Goo can drip from stocks or get on reeds if bag is not drained properly.Needs to be repeated monthly to annually depending on your climate and how wet you blow.2. Check for leaks at all seams and grommets, or tie-in locations with stocks. Replace the bag BEFORE it fails catastrophically. Side effects:This should be done regularly.New bags are expensive. Take good care to avoid over-flexing seams or stressing the seams/grommets.3. Check and lubricate zipper.Side effects:This should be done regularly.Do not allow T-Zip or other lubricant to build-up or get on synthetic materials adjacent to the nylon zipper or neoprene opening.4. Adjust or replace the blow stick valve.Side effects:Replace about annually if using rubber flapper valve. Other types may be more durable.5. Check for cracked stocks.Side effects:This happens if stocks or hemp areas are allowed to get wet and swell.Hard to match stocks if replacing. It is possible to fill a crack but keep in mind how this happens and that the wood/plastic is already weakened.6. Work out or practice more to develop stamina and endurance.Side effects:This should be done regularly.My Answer: _________ My Reason/Logic: My Results:Recommended Answer (open to discussion):The issue was: Can’t keep the bag inflated, or I tire easilyI have seen all of the proposed solutions work. Most of my experience has been with leather bags, so solution #1 worked for many years for me. The next most common fix I’ve seen is solution #4, fix a leaking valve.The third most common I’ve seen has been synthetic bags failing at the seams. I once saw the seams around a zipper completely fail and my friend was left with bag in one hand, zipper in the other.Daily playing is best to keep your aerobic capability and the pipes in the best shape. It probably wouldn’t hurt to run some laps, walk around the block, or march in parades regularly, too.Issue: Moisture condenses in my drones/reeds, causing tuning and cut-out problems.Possible Solutions:Open zipper between playing to air out the bag. Might even need to dry the inside with a towel.Side effects:Use care with the zipper and seams. Be sure to lubricate the zipper regularly.Run a swab through the bore of the drones, and pipe cleaner inside the reeds.Side effects:Reeds are sensitive, dry them GENTLY.Be sure to replace the middle drone reed back in the same drone. Ditto for the others. Minute bore differences make each reed/drone combination unique.Dry swab is best. Some suggest an occasional LIGHT application of bore oil. Be sure to run a dry swab after such application.Use a moisture control system (many brands to choose from).Side effects:Canisters can store bacteria and become a science experiment. Clean them periodically.The pellets, beads, or “kitty litter” might need to be dried. Use low heat. Always let the material COOL completely before putting back in the container. Do NOT dry them so much the reeds lose moisture as you play. Homeostasis is the key.Containers take up space and add weight to your instrument.One piper feels the canister system restricts airflow.Joints and hemp for tubing need to be kept dry and checked for tightness. No sense having a canister system that falls out of the stocks.If using a leather bag, consider seasoning it. If really moist conditions, use sheepskin rather than elk hide.Side effects:Goo can drip from stocks or get on reeds if bag is not drained properly.Needs to be repeated monthly to annually depending on your climate and how wet you blow.Keep a spare set of reeds ready, or a spare set of pipes. Watch pipers at games who play all day for dancers. They often have a “squire” or friend who will tune the second set, then hand off to go dry out and retune the other set.Side effects:$$$.My Answer: _________ My Reason/Logic: My Results:Recommended Answer (open to discussion):The issue was: Moisture condenses in my drones/reeds, causing tuning and cut-out problems.As with reeds, ALL of the solutions can work.The recommended solution is #1; an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. Keep the bag aired out as much as possible. I have found the large Kinnaird Kannister system to work best for me. (Solution #3). Keep in mind that Bannatyne synthetic bags are warrantied for 14-months from manufacture, but NOT if you use a system other than the small bottle and chamois system that they ship with the bag.If you use a swab (solution #2), be sure to make it small enough that it will not get stuck in narrow spots in the bore. I use gun cleaning patches with a .22 caliber cleaning rod. I try to not let the metal rod bang around on the wood bore and I change the patch often.Issue: Snare drums sound flat and “chokey.”Possible Solutions:Tighten the drum head.Side effects:Could over tighten and “pop” the drum head. Be sure to tighten all screws evenly and methodically (as a mechanic might when tightening the head bolts in a car engine)Move the snares away from the drum head.Side effects:Loss of crisp snare sound.Drummers, I need some more ideas here Side effects:My Answer: _________ My Reason/Logic: My Results:Recommended Answer (open to discussion):The issue was: Snare drums sound flat and “chokey.”I’ve heard both solution #1 and #2 being used.More input is needed from our drummers.Regardless of the solution, NO ONE should tune their own drum for a band performance without ensuring that ALL drums are also adjusted the same way. If you must adjust an instrument for a solo event, either get your own separate instrument, or be careful to restore it EXACTLY as it was set for the band. Even then, be sure to re-tune with the other instruments. Notice I shifted from just talking about drums to include ALL band instruments.Issue: Timing not as Pipe Major calls off.Possible Solutions:Practice with a metronome that is loud enough to be heard (or seen) over the music.Side effects:No side effects.Get used to simultaneously watching the Pipe Major’s tapping foot and listening to the Bass drum.Side effects:Might be hard to get this multi-tasking discipline. Practice it.Hum a few bars of the tune before calling off the tempo so all get the feel set in their minds.Side effects:Aside from the “hum” person feeling a bit self-conscious, there are likely no side effects.Resist the temptation to speed up if you hear someone play an early movement or fail to hold notes as practiced. More often than not you are probably right and the other musician just missed their own timing.Side effects:Tempo could slow down if everyone feels the other guy is rushing. (Frankly, this might be a welcome change!)Try rehearsing with everyone in the circle facing OUT so they learn to rely on the beat of the mid section to keep in time.Side effects:No side effectsContrary to popular sayings, the Pipe Major may not always be right. If review indicates tempo creep, only self discipline and use of a metronome will correct those nerves or anxiety that might cause the incorrect call for the next time.Side effects:Even if called off incorrectly, FOLLOW the tempo called for.Be prepared for mid-tune adjustments if/when Pipe Major communicates a need to change tempo up/down.My Answer: _________ My Reason/Logic: My Results:Recommended Answer (open to discussion):The issue was: Timing not as Pipe Major calls off.Again, try ALL of the solutions until we find one that works.Solutions #2 & #4 are probably the most viable for the majority of bandsmen.Solution #6 requires a strong leader who is willing and able to accept criticism (especially self-criticism) and will TAKE ACTION to correct.Issue: Tone going off in some tunes but not others.Possible Solutions:Reeds going bad. Recognize the symptoms at practices before the event/gig and replace the offending equipment promptly.Side effects:Reeds $$$All individuals NEED to be alert to changes in their own instrument. Don’t depend on the Pipe/Drum Sergeant to fix your equipment. At the same time rely on their tuning so all instruments are set the same.Musicians tiring or putting in “extra effort” as the set progresses. ALL must concentrate to have steady technique (blowing pressure for pipers, hand height or how hard to strike drum heads). Use a manometer and tuner to check your own pressure. Have someone else monitor your pressure and tone as you pay a tune. Many concentrate while watching the meters, but revert to bad habits when changing focus to concentrating on the music.Side effects:Flat D or F is characteristic of under blowing.Sharp notes are usually from over blowing. Be especially alert to the last phrases as we prepare for a clean cut-off.Many players cannot hear their own tone. Some never really hear the “disturbance in the force” when the group experiences discord. ALL need to train their ears to hear out-of-tune notes and identify the source.Side effects:Playing together OFTEN can disrupt balance in other life commitments. Maximize time together by paying exceptionally close attention each and every time we do play together.Practice individually with a meter and LISTEN to each note in harmony with well-tuned drones. This is a lifelong learning endeavor. Always pay attention to the details.My Answer: _________ My Reason/Logic: My Results:Recommended Answer (open to discussion):The issue was: Tone going off in some tunes but not others.Self-awareness and self-discipline are a must. Individual responsibility to perform above one’s usual level is needed. We ALL need to be our own worst critics.Solutions #3 & #1 should be repeatedly exercised.Issue: Pipe section and Drum section not in unison.Possible Solutions:Chanter and pad practice together before full ensemble work.Side effects:Practice time for solo lessons, and section work needs to take place, too.Play more gigs together.Side effects:Family and work responsibilities will conflict. Get used to it.Like the old movie “Twelve O’Clock High,” we all need to discover our own limits for maximum effort.Many players cannot hear their own playing. Some never really hear the “disturbance in the force” when the group experiences discord. ALL need to train their ears to hear out-of-tempo mistakes and identify the source. Side effects:Playing together OFTEN can disrupt balance in other life commitments. Maximize time together by paying exceptionally close attention each and every time we do play together.Practice individually with a meter and LISTEN to each beat of the drums and match the beat (pulse) of the tune. This is a lifelong learning endeavor. Always pay attention to the details.Get used to simultaneously watching the Pipe Major’s tapping foot and listening to the Bass drum.Side effects:Might be hard to get this multi-tasking discipline. Practice it.My Answer: _________ My Reason/Logic: My Results:Recommended Answer (open to discussion):The issue was: Pipe section and Drum section not in unison.Solution #3 is critical. We cannot “play down” to the lowest level player in the band. Everyone is expected to perform above their own individual level when playing in the group. This is a shift from the usual thinking that mediocrity can hide in a band.Issue: Rolls not together or Pulsed.Possible Solutions:Wail on them drums, folks. Be confident in all the hours you have practiced together.Side effects:Playing loudly needs to be correct. Get over any shyness.Drummers, I need some more ideas here Side effects:My Answer: _________ My Reason/Logic: My Results:Recommended Answer (open to discussion):The issue was: Rolls not together or Pulsed.Input is needed from our drummers.The sound should be almost scary. That’s why it’s called an ATTACK!Issue: Drones unsteady.Possible Solutions:Monitor pressure with both gauges and your ears.Side effects:Wean yourself from relying on gaugesSee the section on moisture in the pipes.Side effects:Same as in previous sectionSee the section on roaring drones.Side effects:Same as in previous sectionSee the section on tone going off in some tunes and not in others.Side effects:Same as in previous sectionMy Answer: _________ My Reason/Logic: My Results:Recommended Answer (open to discussion):The issue was: Drones unsteady.Always LISTEN. The drones are a much more sensitive meter than any of the tuners on the market. Get used to using your ears the whole time you are playing. Train yourself to recognize not only when your own instrument is straying, but to recognize when the group sound is off.Issue: Drones or E not together on attack.Possible Solutions:Follow the beat. Count goes: 1 – 2 – 3(Hand to bag, no sound) – 4 – 5(drones start) – 6 – 7(Sound Clear E) – 8(Intro notes if any) – 9(First beat of the tune)Side effects:Might be hard to concentrate on multiple things until you get used to it (marching on correct foot, counting, blowing, plus the required strike-in action exactly on the count).Maintain your instrument in top playing condition.Side effects:No side effects. Always arrive ready to play, instrument tuned.Understand the written music regarding intro notes so you can gauge the length of the Intro E.Side effects:Lifelong learning.My Answer: _________ My Reason/Logic: My Results:Recommended Answer (open to discussion):The issue was: Drones or E not together on attack.Practice, Practice, Practice!Issue: Loud high-pitched Squeal on Low Hand, especially Low A and when coming from high hand notes.Possible Solutions:1. Reed blown out or nearly so.Side effects:Replacing a reed required a blow-in period before it settles in for reliable playing.New reeds are often harder to blow at first, causing flat F or flat High A.New reeds are often harder to blow at first, creating the need to re-balance drone reeds for the new pressure.2. Chanter cracked.Side effects:Glue the crack, but expect that this might not work nor hold for a long time.$$$ to replace with a new chanterNote:NEVER twist the chanter from anywhere but the thick ball just below the stock. Never cram too much stuff in the pipe case. Avoid checking pipes as luggage.3. Fingers on covering all holes properly. Check High A, High G, F, or even B fingers.Side effects:Hard to identify which finger is not covering because squeal only happens occasionally.Tendency is to grip chanter more tightly, creating fatigue and possibly crossing noises.4. Tape on high hand note too thick, allowing air to leak like finger not covering hole. Check F or High G.Side effects:Hard to identify which finger is not covering because squeal only happens occasionallyTendency is to grip chanter more tightly, creating fatigue and possibly crossing noises.My Answer: _________ My Reason/Logic: My Results:Recommended Answer (open to discussion):The issue was: Loud high-pitched Squeal on Low Hand.Solution #1 is the most common issue. Try a new reed. Do not be alarmed if the squeal remains.Always visually inspect the chanter when setting out to play for practice or a gig (Solution #2). Plastic chanters would hardly ever crack but wood chanters can crack just from swelling and contracting from moisture. Treat the chanter gingerly; the wood is turned very thin for optimum timbre. Chanters are especially weak near the high hand holes.If solutions #1 or #2 do not correct the issue, then assume it is your fingering. Adjust your finger pressure just enough to feel which finger might not be completely covering the hole. Slightly move fingers up/down on the holes to see if the squeal goes away. Check it with High A to Low A, then add High A to Low A with a Taorluath or Crunluath. This can identify which upper hand holes are not fully covered. Try High A to Low A with a birl. This can help identify if your B finger is the culprit.Try twisting (from the ball of the chanter) so the holes and fingers line up for a better side-to-side seal. ................
................

In order to avoid copyright disputes, this page is only a partial summary.

Google Online Preview   Download