These schools have been designed specifically for young pipers aged 17 and under to get together and learn more about their instrument. Our Autumn events are now split over 2 weekends, and participants are welcome to attend one or both of the weekends.
Dates for 2023 are:
Autumn 1: Sat 7th – Sun 8th October
Autumn 2: Sat 14th – Sun 15th October
The programme will include:
• 1-2-1 lessons with National Piping Centre teachers
• Group masterclasses with specialist external workshop leaders
• Ear-training and focus games
• Individual practice
• Come and try bellows pipes & whistle
• Q&As
• Repertoire classes
• Maintenance and technique workshops
• Demonstrations
• Composition
• Music reading skills
• Performance opportunities
These gatherings will provide exciting opportunities for young pipers to get together and have fun, as well as learning more about their instrument and the wider musical world.
If you have been playing a few tunes on the pipes with at least one drone going, or have been playing all three drones for many years, we have an intensive and dynamic programme for you. The Junior Gathering runs all day (9am-4pm) and will give you a taste of all strands of piping and access to expert teachers in each area.
Cost
This school option costs £165 per student if you book both Autumn Weekends.
To book just one Autumn weekend is £90 per weekend.
Location
The Gatherings will take place at either our McPhater Street venue or Otago Street venue. The location will be confirmed shortly before each school.
There will be a music pack provided for each school.
Hearing Protection
The National Piping Centre requires all students to use hearing protection at all times when playing pipes. Hearing protection is available for purchase in our shop or free of charge from the earplug dispenser in both our piping school venues.
Accommodation
Did you know we have an 8-bedroom hotel on site? If you would like to book accommodation whilst here for your course, please email hotel@thepipingcentre.co.uk or go to The Pipers’ Tryst Hotel page. Please note, children under 18 require a chaperone to stay in the hotel.
The Bagpipe Shop
At The National Piping Centre, we teach from our Highland Tutor Book 1. This can be purchased from The Bagpipe Shop here, or if you need a practice chanter too, you can buy our starter pack here.