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Bagpipes of Scotland

© Sharma Krauskopf

One of the first things people think about when Scotland is mentioned is bagpipes. Even one of my new friends at suite101.com thought for sure I would have bagpipes in the corner picture.

I hate to admit this but I am not a bagpipe fan. Is it anti-Scottish to not love bagpipes? I hate to disappoint the world but many Scots are not that taken with bagpipes. The bagpipe is looked on by some as the national instrument. Their origin is uncertain but I found one web site which has a good history of the bagpipe.

The bagpipe is best played outside where the real power of the instrument can flourish. For centuries the Scots used the bagpipe as a weapon of war. It caused great emotion and patriotism from the soldiers as it wailed away on a battle field. I think one of the mistakes made today is to play such a powerful instrument within a confined area. The bagpipes are used in Scotland mostly at dances, weddings, funerals, and of course the all-important function of piping the haggis on Burns Night. Probably the song most played by bagpipers and bagpipe bands is Scotland The Brave. It is very rousing hearing massed pipe bands playing this song at tatoos or highland games.

There are all different types of bagpipes. It is difficult to make a bagpipe and this site gives some insight into how it is done. For a good look at the various parts of the bagpipego here.

Even though I do not fancy bagpipes there are many who love bagpipe music. It is very popular around the world. Rootsworld reviews recent bagpipe music if you want to keep up to date. If you are interested in knowing more about the great bagpipe bands, try here. I even found a list of movies that contain bagpipes.

On the lighter side, bagpipes have become a popular subject for jokes and if you like to hear a few why not try Laugh-A-Lot!.

Whether you love or hate them bagpipes are a part of Scotland and there is no better way to close than with a one of the most beautiful Scottish songs, Dark Isle, played on a bagpipe.

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