The Scottish Highland bagpipes and the uilleann bagpipes have both become highly popular worldwide in recent years. These two types of bagpipes share similarities in popularity, history, and construction.
The original bagpipes are thought to have originated with the Romans, but others firmly believe that they were invented independently in the Scottish highlands. The Scottish and Irish bagpipes did not become two different forms until the Middle Ages (by the 12th or 13th century).
Both bagpipes consist of an airtight bag with drones, a blowpipe, and a chanter. The method of playing these instruments, however, is very different.
Playing the Scottish Highland Bagpipes
To provide air to the Scottish highland bagpipes, the player supplies the air by breathing directly into the blowpipe. The player’s arm holds the bagpipes, and both hands play on the chanter, which has 9 finger holes.
This is why the bagpipes have a limited number of notes and remain on the pentatonic (5-note) scale. The players have mobility and can stand or walk at their leisure. The Scottish bagpipes are larger than the uilleann pipes, and are generally played outdoors for performance purposes. They are often played in marches and in funerals.
Playing the Uilleann Bagpipes
To provide air to the uilleann pipes, the player uses a bellows which is under the arm not holding the bag. The keys and holes for the Irish bagpipe are complicated because they are numerous. The Irish bagpipe player has the opportunity to play more notes than the Scottish bagpipe player, and they can play on any scale.
The bag for the Irish pipes is significantly smaller than the bag of the Scottish pipes. Irish bagpipes are generally played indoors because they are not nearly as loud as the Scottish bagpipes. That is why uilleann pipes are known for their pub songs and dances. Unfortunately, the Irish pipe players do not have the mobility of the Scottish players. They are confined to sitting down when they wish to perform or practice.
Other Differences
Other differences, aside from the mechanics, between the two bagpipes are the history of their popularity and their availability for competitions. Scottish bagpipes have remained popular for centuries, while Irish bagpipes almost went “extinct” due to loss of popularity.
It was not until fairly recently that they regained popularity. Partially due to popularity, only Scottish highland bagpipes are allowed in international competitions. Irish bagpipes cannot compete, and many uilleann pipe players switch instruments if they want to compete.
Reference:
- Shelemay, Kay Kaufman. Soundscapes. W.W. Norton & Company, 2000.
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