An Introduction to the Scottish Smallpipes - 1
Vicki Swan introduces the Scottish Smallpipes. Then fetch an instrument (any will do) and learn a tune.Vicki Swan - Copyright (c) 2005Artist InformationVicki Swan Vicki has been surrounded by music since and early age, her father being a Pipe Major. She formed her first band at the age of eight, a duo with a friend who lived just down the road. Vicki was very disappointed when the friend expressed a wish to go and become an astronaut and not a full time busker. Going on to study solo double bass at the Royal College of Music she became principal bass and won the solo bass competition. On leaving music college Vicki saw the light and took up the Scottish Smallpipes and hasn't looked back, only dusting off the bass to collaborate with other folk musicians. Having performed with the band Seriouskitchen and collaborated with many others Vicki now performs regularly with guitarist Jonny Dyer. Having studied under as many different pipers as possible Vicki is now researching teaching the Scottish Smallpipes online to pipers all round the world using the internet. Their latest album Scatter Pipes is due for release on the WildGoose label at the end of May.For more information visit the website smallpiper.co.ukVicki Swan & Jonny DyerProgramme InformationThis first program takes a look at the Scottish Smallpipes giving a brief history and 'how they work'.Close up(ish) on the pipes. The bellows power the Scottish Smallpipes and are strapped to the right forearm. The bag is squeezed under the left with the drones sitting horizontally. You need to listen to the programme for the rest!Tune to Learn - The Damson TreeThe following tune can be played by anyone, not just Scottish Smallpipers. The audio file contains not only the tune, but a version of the accompaniment The Damson Tree, click here for large image)