tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5797209154607749332024-03-05T04:06:16.221-08:00Bagpipe TeacherInsights, Tips, Words of Wisdom, about Teaching and Learning the Pipes, Pipebands, Pipe MusicMaureenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07345298369137134294noreply@blogger.comBlogger15125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-579720915460774933.post-36668208113825905722011-08-19T13:47:00.000-07:002011-09-21T12:50:58.973-07:00Framing the House/Building the Walls<style> <!-- /* Font Definitions */ @font-face {font-family:"Times New Roman"; panose-1:0 2 2 6 3 5 4 5 2 3; mso-font-charset:0; mso-generic-font-family:auto; mso-font-pitch:variable; mso-font-signature:50331648 0 0 0 1 0;} /* Style Definitions */ p.MsoNormal, li.MsoNormal, div.MsoNormal {mso-style-parent:""; margin:0in; margin-bottom:.0001pt; mso-pagination:none; mso-layout-grid-align:none; punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none; font-size:10.0pt; font-family:"Times New Roman"; mso-font-kerning:14.0pt;} h1 {mso-style-next:Normal; margin:0in; margin-bottom:.0001pt; mso-pagination:none; page-break-after:avoid; mso-outline-level:1; mso-layout-grid-align:none; punctuation-wrap:simple; text-autospace:none; font-size:14.0pt; font-family:"Times New Roman"; mso-font-kerning:14.0pt; font-weight:normal;} @page Section1 {size:8.5in 11.0in; margin:14.15pt .25in 33.1pt .25in; mso-header-margin:36.85pt; mso-footer-margin:.6in; mso-page-numbers:1; mso-paper-source:0;} div.Section1 {page:Section1;} --> </style> <h1>Framing the house/Building the walls<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> <br /></span><br /></h1> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:14.0pt;"> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:14.0pt;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1"> </span>How often have you said to yourself, while learning a new piece of music:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>“I need to hear the tune before I can learn it.”?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>While this statement may have a lot to do with your Sight Reading/Playing skills, it reveals the importance of “knowing how the song goes” to learning and understanding the melody line of a tune.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:14.0pt;"> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:14.0pt;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1"> </span>We previously discussed the importance of keeping a beat as the foundation to music.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>The next important layer is rhythm, which is akin to the roof.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>While the frame goes up before a roof, the roof ties the frame together.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Likewise, the melodic line of a tune is a combination of pitch and rhythm and they can’t really be separated.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>In this third article on ‘Building a House” we will look at The Frame or melody.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:14.0pt;"><br /></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:14.0pt;"> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:14.0pt;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1"> </span>Any melodic line is made up of a combination of phrases or motifs that are often repeated throughout a tune.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>A motif or phrase can be broken down into smaller components.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Bob Shepherd describes the parts of music in his tutor book “Learn to Play the Bagpipes” as similar to the parts of spoken language:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>A single note=a syllable, a group of notes=a word, a musical phrase=a sentence phrase, musical cadences=punctuation marks, etc.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>The following part of “72<sup>nd</sup> Highlanders Farewell to Aberdeen” illustrates how a tune can be broken down into its smallest components.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>As you learn the tune, you take it ‘one word at a time’.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>This method is used by the RSPBA with MAP tunes</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:14.0pt;"> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:14.0pt;"><br /></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:14.0pt;"> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:14.0pt;"> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:14.0pt;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1"> </span>Understanding the basics theory behind melody still may not help you to “learn a tune without hearing it first” and that’s okay!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Listen to the tune often.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>And listen to other tunes in our genre ---soloists, pipe bands, ceilidh bands, seisun bands----as much as you can stand.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>The more you are familiar with the musical form, the more easy it will be to learn new tunes that may not be as familiar.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:14.0pt;"><br /><span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:14.0pt;"> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:14.0pt;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1"> </span>The importance of listening can not be underestimated.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>We do not live in a culture where the music we play is broadcast on the radio.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>You do not have only piping or drumming music on your iPod.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Seek out the music and acculturate yourself.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Have you listened to a recording so many times that you “know how it goes” and what is coming next?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>I’ve listened to “Live in Ireland” by the 78<sup>th</sup> Fraser’s so many times that I wore out the cassette tape and then purchased a CD (actually more than one as I keep loaning it out and not getting it back).<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>I have that recording completely memorized.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:14.0pt;"><br /></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:14.0pt;"> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:14.0pt;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1"> </span>The next step is to “Sing your tunes”.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>The act of singing OUT LOUD internalizes a melody in the same way that tapping your foot ‘calibrates’ the beat.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Don’t worry that you aren’t comfortable singing--If you were destined for American Idol or Vocal stardom you wouldn‘t be playing the pipes or drums!!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Sing in the shower, in the car, while you are doing housework, when you’re out for a walk, etc.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Observe whether are you singing on the beat?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Are the rhythms accurate? Are you in tune?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>You may be off pitch but is it correct in your head?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Do you know if you are off pitch?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Are the embellishments rhythmically accurate? The more accurate you are singing a tune, the better you will be able to play the tune.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>And this will help with memorization!!!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>I know that when I’m out for a walk and sing through a tune if I can’t sing though a passage, it is invariably a section I am not playing well……..</span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:14.0pt;"><br /><span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:14.0pt;"> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:14.0pt;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1"> </span>Drummers--this applies to you as well!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>You are the rhythmic accompaniment.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>You need to understand how your score fit’s the melody and whether you are playing it accurately to the melody.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>A pipe band’s ensemble will suffer if the drummer can’t sing the melody.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:14.0pt;"><br /></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:14.0pt;"> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:14.0pt;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1"> </span>Finally, listen to live piping and drumming.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Recordings are great but live performances carry many more nuances that are never conveyed in a recording.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Make sure you Make a Point of listening to the best piping in your area each year whether it be a Recital, Competition, or Concert AND travel if you have to------you are already spending a lot of time and money on an activity that you are passionate about---don’t spare expense here.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>It will inspire and motivate as well as help you to understand what an excellent instrument sounds like and how the best play.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:14.0pt;"> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:14.0pt;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1"> </span>Listen and Sing!</span></p>Maureenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07345298369137134294noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-579720915460774933.post-25874678036569138192011-04-20T17:43:00.000-07:002011-04-20T17:56:22.932-07:00Rhythm's and the Roof<style>@font-face { font-family: "Times New Roman"; }@font-face { font-family: "Arial"; }p.MsoNormal, li.MsoNormal, div.MsoNormal { margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt; font-size: 12pt; font-family: Arial; }h1 { margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt; page-break-after: avoid; font-size: 16pt; font-family: Arial; }p.MsoBodyText, li.MsoBodyText, div.MsoBodyText { margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt; text-align: center; font-size: 12pt; font-family: Arial; }p.MsoBodyTextIndent, li.MsoBodyTextIndent, div.MsoBodyTextIndent { margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt; text-indent: 0.5in; font-size: 12pt; font-family: Arial; }div.Section1 { page: Section1; }ol { margin-bottom: 0in; }ul { margin-bottom: 0in; }</style> <p class="MsoNormal"> </p> <p class="MsoNormal"> </p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=""> </span>Have you ever read through a new piece of music and while playing you just ‘knew’ that it didn’t sound very good?<span style=""> </span>May be you aren’t familiar with the tune.<span style=""> </span>Maybe your Sight Playing/Reading skills aren’t that great.<span style=""> </span>As you’re playing you struggle with the rhythms and embellishments and then say to yourself:<span style=""> </span>“I’m just trying to get the notes right!”<span style=""> </span>What exactly does it mean to “get the notes right” and why is this statement a major trap?</p><p class="MsoNormal"><br /></p> <p class="MsoNormal"> </p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=""> </span>In the last issue of The Voice (Fall 2010) we explored building a good foundation by learning to keep the beat.<span style=""> </span>The next layer is playing rhythms accurately and this equates to the Roof of a house.<span style=""> </span>Wait a moment, don’t we have to build the build the Frame BEFORE we put on a roof?<span style=""> </span>Absolutely and here lies the problem with “getting the notes right”.</p><p class="MsoNormal"><br /></p> <p class="MsoNormal"> </p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=""> </span>Each “note” in a piece of music provides 2 pieces of information:<span style=""> </span>Pitch and Duration.<span style=""> </span>When we need to “get the notes right’ we are referring to Hand Position to sound the correct Pitch.<span style=""> </span>If your Sight Reading/Playing skills are at a slow level you may get bogged down struggling with Pitch (Hand Position) as well as Embellishments.<span style=""> </span>Rhythm is ALWAYS sacrificed.<span style=""> </span>If you play a wrong pitch, in most cases, you will know immediately that an error has occurred.<span style=""> </span>You will hear the wrong pitch or you will feel the wrong pitch.<span style=""> </span>How often have you played rhythms inaccurately, known it, but blew it off?<span style=""> </span>More often than we care to admit, which is why “getting the notes right” is a trap.<br /></p><p class="MsoNormal"><br /></p> <p class="MsoNormal"> </p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=""> </span>A roof serves two purposes:<span style=""> </span>it provides protection AND it binds the frame together.<span style=""> </span>Accurate Rhythm, laid over a steady beat, ties pitch together to create melody.<span style=""> </span>Without rhythm there can’t be melody, which is the combination of pitch AND rhythm.</p><p class="MsoNormal"><br /></p> <p class="MsoNormal"> </p> <p class="MsoNormal"> </p> <span style="font-weight: bold;">Monotone<br /><br /></span> <p class="MsoNormal"> </p> <p class="MsoNormal"> </p><span style="font-family:arial;">A more productive method would address rhythm FIRST.</span><span style="font-family:arial;"> </span><span style="font-family:arial;">This can be done through a Monotone version of the tune.</span><span style="font-family:arial;"> </span><span style="font-family:arial;">All rhythmic values are placed at one pitch and thus melody is not shown.</span><span style="font-family:arial;"> </span><span style="font-family:arial;">Tap Out the rhythm of the tune.</span><span style="font-family:arial;"> </span><span style="font-family:arial;">Count it out!</span><span style="font-family:arial;"> </span><span style="font-family:arial;">Make sure the quarter notes are held their full value, that even eighth notes are in fact even, and that ‘dot/cuts’ are dotted and cut appropriately.</span><span style="font-family:arial;"> </span><br /><p class="MsoNormal"><br /></p><p class="MsoNormal"> </p> <p class="MsoNormal"> </p> <p class="MsoNormal">There are several methods for counting rhythm and it doesn’t matter which you use (numbers method (1 e + a), Kodaly (ti-ka-ti-ka), Gordon (du-ta-de-ta)).<span style=""> </span>When you can tap the beat with your foot, tap the rhythms of the tune with a pencil, and say the rhythms out loud, then you will be well on your way to understanding the tune and will not need constant correction by a teacher! Check out the following web-site for help on counting subdivisions (and rhythms): http://www.philtulga.com/counter.html</p><p class="MsoNormal"><br /></p> <p class="MsoNormal"> </p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=""> </span>Drummers—this applies to you too!<span style=""> </span>The notes on the page give you Sticking and Duration.<span style=""> </span>When you can “sing” the score or count out the rhythms while tapping your foot, you will be able to understand how the score fits into the melody of the tune.</p><p class="MsoNormal"><br /></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><i> </i></p> <p class="MsoNormal"> </p> <span style="font-weight: bold;">Prelude<br /><br /></span> <p class="MsoNormal"> </p><span style="font-family:arial;">Andrew Douglas introduced this method to the Scotia-Glenville Pipe Band (Grade 5) two years ago.</span><span style="font-family:arial;"> </span><span style="font-family:arial;">The pipers have solid understanding of rhythm because of this method and rarely alter rhythms to ‘fit it’ embellishments.</span><span style="font-family:arial;"> </span><span style="font-family:arial;">Now, two years later it is making all the difference in their ability to play more complicated tunes.</span> <p class="MsoNormal"> </p> <p class="MsoNormal"> </p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=""> </span><br /></p> <p class="MsoNormal"> </p> <p class="MsoNormal"> </p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=""> </span><span style=""></span>IF you’ve done your homework on the Monotone version, this should be fairly simple—even with the 4 note groups.<span style=""> </span>A Prelude setting has only G Gracenotes or less!!! Take the embellishments out of a tune and focus on the Rhythmic Figures. The Prelude setting is NOT a destination and I’ve learned that the more ‘ingrained’ you make it, the more difficult the next step will be.<span style=""> </span>Use the Prelude Version to understand the dot/cut note values.<span style=""> </span>Make sure that the beat notes are actually starting on the beat and that you can play AND tap your foot.<span style=""> </span>Once you can play this, then you are ready for the Full version.<br /></p><p class="MsoNormal"><br /></p> <p class="MsoNormal"> </p> <p class="MsoNormal"> </p> <span style="font-weight: bold;">Full Tune<br /></span><br /><p class="MsoNormal"> </p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: 0.5in;">The Full Version has all the embellishments placed back into the score.<span style=""> </span>Note where the D-throws are and make sure you are not adding a<span style=""> </span>High G gracenote before the D-throw.<span style=""> </span>As you play through the Full Version it is imperative that you NOT alter any rhythms to fit in embellishments.<span style=""> </span>IF you’ve paid careful attention to the rhythm of the melody notes in the Prelude version you will hear if you make an alterations.<span style=""> </span>This usually means extending a cut note (never ‘think’ on a cut note!)</p> <p class="MsoNormal"> </p> <p class="MsoNormal"><br /></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=""> </span>What if you do alter a rhythm or extend a cut note because of an embellishment?<span style=""> </span>This will be a “Hot Spot” and you will need to isolate the beginning of the embellishment.<span style=""> </span>As you do this, pay attention to how simple it is to isolate and maintain rhythmic accuracy.<span style=""> </span>For example:<span style=""> </span>Measure 8 starts with a D-throw and is preceded by a cut C.<span style=""> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"> </p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 0.75in; text-indent: -0.25in;">1.<span style="font: 7pt "Times New Roman";"> </span>Play the 4-note group in measure 7 and STOP on the first Low G of the D-throw.<span style=""> </span>Repeat this until you can play it 10x in a row accurately (The Power of Ten!!!)</p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 0.75in; text-indent: -0.25in;">2.<span style="font: 7pt "Times New Roman";"> </span>Add the D-throw back in and alternate stopping on the first Low G and playing the full D-throw.<span style=""> </span>Again to The Power of Ten</p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 0.75in; text-indent: -0.25in;">3.<span style="font: 7pt "Times New Roman";"> </span>Play the full D-throw---to The Power of Ten.</p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 0.75in; text-indent: -0.25in;">4.<span style="font: 7pt "Times New Roman";"> </span>Do this until you can’t play it wrong!!<span style=""> </span>(This maybe result in many Powers of Ten)</p> <p class="MsoBodyText" style="text-align: left;" align="left"> </p> <p class="MsoNormal" style=""><span style="font-family:Helvetica;"> </span></p> <p class="MsoBodyTextIndent">You will find that the more focused attention you pay to rhythms before trying to play the tune, the more you will be able to maintain rhythmic accuracy throughout the tune and the less you will struggle with constantly trying ‘fix a problem’ or “Get the notes right”.<span style=""> </span>Your Pipe Major and Teacher will thank you for your efforts!</p>Maureenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07345298369137134294noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-579720915460774933.post-12147419391511806372011-02-14T13:25:00.000-08:002011-03-15T09:15:29.421-07:00The Beat!!!“We’ve got the Beat”<span style=""> </span><p class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><!--[if !supportEmptyParas]--> <!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">What is the beat?<span style=""> </span>Why is it important?<span style=""> </span>How do we play on the beat?<span style=""> </span>Why can’t we just rely on the drummers to keep us on track?<span style=""> </span>In the Basic Training series, we are going to explore a variety of fundamental music concepts and principles and relate them to piping and drumming.<span style=""> </span>So, let’s start by building a house!<o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><!--[if !supportEmptyParas]--> <!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">What is the first and most important part to building a house?<span style=""> </span>A proper foundation.<span style=""> </span>Whatever materials are used, concrete, blocks, rocks, or bricks, they must be made of quality materials and laid properly to last for a long time and prevent future problems with the rest of the structure.<span style=""> </span>In Music, this is equivalent to the beat.<span style=""> </span>The beat is that which everything else is built around. <o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><!--[if !supportEmptyParas]--> <!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">The beat is the basic time unit in music and marks the passage of time.<span style=""> </span>Each beat has a beginning and end.<span style=""> </span>The beginning is marked by the first tap of your foot or click on the metronome or count/command by a music leader. (When a Pipe Major gives the command to start, they state the command on the beat).<span style=""> </span>The end is marked by the next foot tap or metronome click, which incidentally is the start of the next beat.<span style=""> </span>This is often referred to as the Big Beat or Macrobeat. <o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><!--[if !supportEmptyParas]--> <!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">Take a look at the lines below and ask yourself how many beats are represented by these marks? <o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><!--[if !supportEmptyParas]--> <!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><!--[if !supportEmptyParas]--> <!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=""> </span><span style=""> </span><b>|<span style=""> </span><span style=""> </span>|<span style=""> </span><span style=""> </span>|<span style=""> </span><span style=""> </span>|<span style=""> </span><span style=""> </span>|<o:p></o:p></b></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><!--[if !supportEmptyParas]--> <!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><!--[if !supportEmptyParas]--> <!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">If you answered 4, you’re correct.<span style=""> </span>Remember that each mark represents the beginning and the end of a beat simultaneously.<span style=""> </span>In Music, we mark the first tap as the beginning of Beat 1 and the next as the end of Beat 1 and the Beginning of Beat 2.<span style=""> </span>The next tap represents the end of Beat 2 and the Beginning of Beat 3 and so on until you start a new measure.<span style=""> </span>Each of these points in time <o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><!--[if !supportEmptyParas]--> <!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">As a piper or drummer you must be able to keep the beat by tapping your foot AND playing at the same time.<span style=""> </span>By tapping your foot you internalize the beat.<span style=""> </span>By internalizing the beat you are laying a foundation for being able to keep the beat, keep it steady and liberate yourself as a musician!<span style=""> </span>I know there are many of you out there thinking the following:<o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><!--[if !supportEmptyParas]--> <!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">--I’ve tried this and can’t<o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">--My teacher didn’t make me<o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">--I use a metronome to keep me steady<o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">--The drummers will keep me on target<o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><!--[if !supportEmptyParas]--> <!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">Allow me to address each of these concerns and explain how to get over each of these hurdles. <o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><!--[if !supportEmptyParas]--> <!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></p> <h1>“I’ve tried to tap and play and can’t”<o:p></o:p></h1> <p class="MsoNormal"><!--[if !supportEmptyParas]--> <!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">Yes you can!<span style=""> </span>For some musicians it comes naturally.<span style=""> </span>For those that don’t pick it up easily you will need to learn it “mechanically”.<span style=""> </span>I’ve yet to meet a person who is so rhythmically challenged that I couldn’t teach them to tap and play and keep the beat.<span style=""> </span><o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><!--[if !supportEmptyParas]--> <!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">Begin by just tapping your foot (It could be your heal and not your toes).<span style=""> </span>It could be to nothing or to your favorite musician or band.<span style=""> </span>Pay specific attention to when your foot is down and when your foot is up.<span style=""> </span>Push your foot down and pull your foot up.<span style=""> </span>As a playing exercise start with the scale and give yourself and preparatory command (while tapping your foot) such as:<span style=""> </span>“Ready—Go”. On the NEXT tap you will start the scale and change to the next note as your foot taps.<span style=""> </span>You are thus tapping and playing Quarter Notes.<span style=""> </span>Try this with a very simple melody such as “Mary Had a Little Lamb”.<o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><!--[if !supportEmptyParas]--> <!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">Drummers play Singles right to left hand while tapping one foot.<o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><!--[if !supportEmptyParas]--> <!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">The next step involves subdividing the beat into smaller parts (Little Beats or Microbeats) and knowing where your foot is while this is happening.<span style=""> </span>When we discuss subdividing we need to know “How” the beat will be subdivided.<span style=""> </span>This is referred to as Meter. <span style=""> </span>For our purposes the beat can be subdivided by 2 or by 3.<span style=""> </span>In Simple Time (Duple Meter) the beat is subdivided by 2 and in Compound Time (Triple Meter) the beat is subdivided by 3.<span style=""> </span>I will discuss Time Signatures at a later date.<span style=""> </span><o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><!--[if !supportEmptyParas]--> <!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><!--[if !supportEmptyParas]--> <!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><!--[if !supportEmptyParas]--> <!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">Next try this to eighth notes in Simple Time/Duple Meter.<span style=""> </span>You could use the scale or any exercise involving 1/8<sup>th</sup> notes only.<span style=""> </span>Exercise #1 in Jim McGillvray’s <u>Rhythmic Fingerwork</u> is very good for this purpose.<span style=""> </span>Make sure you give a preparatory command and start playing the first Low G with your foot UP as it is a pick-up note.<span style=""> </span>Your foot is tapping DOWN on the Low A or other scale note and back to the Low G when your foot reaches it’s highest point.<span style=""> </span>(g | a-g-a-g | b-g-b-g | c-g-c-g | d-g-d-g | e-g-e-g | f-g-f-g | g’-g-g’-g | a’-g-a’- | a-b-a-b, etc).<span style=""> </span>Be patient if you don’t get this right the first time. <o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><!--[if !supportEmptyParas]--> <!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">Drummers try to Doubles or Paradiddles while tapping one foot.<o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><!--[if !supportEmptyParas]--> <!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">The next step is to tap your foot while playing an exercise in Compound Time/Triple Meter.<span style=""> </span>Drummers you will play Triplets.<span style=""> </span>For Pipers, Exercises #2 & #3 in <u>Rhythmic Fingerwork</u> are a good starting point.<span style=""> </span>In Triple Meter you will focus on the ‘flow’ of your foot moving up and down.<span style=""> </span><o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><!--[if !supportEmptyParas]--> <!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">Pipers, you are now ready to try a very simple tune such as “Robin Adair” <span style=""> </span>or “The Marine Corps Hymn” or “Scots Wha Hae”.<span style=""> </span>If the embellishments mess you up, take them out momentarily to focus on playing TO your foot.<span style=""> </span>Play at a rate that you can totally focus on your foot moving continuously to the beat.<span style=""> </span>Remember:<span style=""> </span>Your foot is in charge and it will tap steadily if you PLAY TO YOUR FOOT.<span style=""> </span>If you find yourself tapping the rhythm (i.e. the notes) stop and re-start.<span style=""> </span>You may find this frustrating but keep at it—with patience it will come.<span style=""> </span>If you’ve played these tunes for a long time it might take a while to get over the hurdle of NOT playing to the beat.<span style=""> </span><o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><!--[if !supportEmptyParas]--> <!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">Drummers, your next step is to tap while playing rolls.<span style=""> </span>After that you can add accents to Singles, Doubles, Triples, Paradiddles and then shift the accent.<span style=""> </span>It will be challenging to shift the accent on triplets AND continue tapping beat 1.<span style=""> </span>Be patient.<span style=""> </span>The next step you would add dots & cuts.<span style=""> </span>Finally work on other simple exercise patterns and then simple scores.<span style=""> </span><o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><!--[if !supportEmptyParas]--> <!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></p> <h1>“My teacher didn’t make me”<o:p></o:p></h1> <p class="MsoNormal"><!--[if !supportEmptyParas]--> <!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">Then you must learn to do this yourself.<span style=""> </span><o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><!--[if !supportEmptyParas]--> <!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">Teachers—I used to wait until a student could play a few tunes and then worked on incorporating foot tapping into the tune.<span style=""> </span>Those days are long gone!!<span style=""> </span>I started introducing this concept earlier and earlier and am now at the point where I start a beginner tapping their foot on DAY 1.<span style=""> </span>You will be amazed at how quickly most people pick this up.<span style=""> </span>IF<span style=""> </span>you have a slow developer–so be it.<span style=""> </span>You (and the student) will be much happier in the long run when you don’t have to deal with their inability to play to a steady beat.<span style=""> </span><o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><!--[if !supportEmptyParas]--> <!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></p> <h1>“I use a metronome to keep me steady”<o:p></o:p></h1> <p class="MsoNormal"><!--[if !supportEmptyParas]--> <!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">Metronomes are great to verify that you are playing on the beat.<span style=""> </span>If you haven’t fully internalized playing on the beat, you can learn to play precisely to a metronome—that’s why there are so many varieties of Metronome.<span style=""> </span>Somewhere there is the perfect metronome to keep us on the beat.<span style=""> </span>The problem is that you won’t be consistent without the metronome!!!!<o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><!--[if !supportEmptyParas]--> <!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">Case in point—last year, pipers in the Oran Mor Pipe Band were drilled in playing on the beat.<span style=""> </span>We were asked to ‘march’ to the 2/4 Marches and Reels and 6/8 Marches.<span style=""> </span>We had to do this in coaching sessions with Andrew Douglas and at band rehearsals.<span style=""> </span>If we were off the slightest bit we had to start over.<span style=""> </span>Let’s just say that I doubt Andrew was ever really happy with what I was doing and he often said that I changed my foot to accommodate my playing (tapping rhythms not the beat—this is very bad).<span style=""> </span><o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><!--[if !supportEmptyParas]--> <!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">One day in July I got out the metronome and played both the Oran Mor and Scotia-Glenville 2/4 Marches and Reels with the metronome blasting away.<span style=""> </span>Guess what?<span style=""> </span>You got it—I was ‘with’ the metronome while playing the Oran Mor material and had to MAKE myself be precisely on the beat with the Scotia-Glenville tunes.<span style=""> </span>I had internalized the beat on Oran Mor tunes but not the Scotia-Glenville tunes.<span style=""> </span>Use the metronome to verify what you already can do and check out the spots that are still giving you trouble.<span style=""> </span><o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><!--[if !supportEmptyParas]--> <!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></p> <h1>“The drummers will keep me on target”<o:p></o:p></h1> <p class="MsoNormal"><!--[if !supportEmptyParas]--> <!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">The same holds true here as using a metronome---an entity outside yourself is doing the work for you, for which you will always be dependent.<span style=""> </span>Plus……..how do you know the drummers are right?<span style=""> </span>Even if your band has an awesome drum corps you (and/or the entire pipe section) will always be ‘reacting’ to the drummers and you won’t be together. <o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><!--[if !supportEmptyParas]--> <!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><!--[if !supportEmptyParas]--> <!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></p> <span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:12pt;" >In piping and drumming, the root of our music serves a specific purpose of keeping the beat.<span style=""> </span>If we can’t keep the beat, we aren’t doing our job.<span style=""> </span>Historically, Strathspeys, Reels & Jigs are danced to, 6/8 Marches are played while soldiers are on a training hikes or danced to as a Quickstep, Retreat Marches while marching as the end of the military day is marked.<span style=""> </span>Nowadays, most pipers and drummers are playing in bands or in solo contests or on their own.<span style=""> </span>The beat is the foundation of any music and your ability to play to the beat and keep a steady beat will help with the next step in developing your playing:<span style=""> </span>Understanding and producing accurate rhythms!</span><!--EndFragment-->Maureenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07345298369137134294noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-579720915460774933.post-5358891910755735832010-02-11T07:41:00.001-08:002010-02-11T07:49:55.530-08:00New Pipe Major and Recording Devises<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGR_RKxYBrKTI6XeS_4h3Ylj8VHHdfLdcB_ChlXk6Ie0yibkFCDOBVURS9iP146U4kd2Ndxwrc4b8kodnDpcR3W1ipTynZOQov0dg4kSM3szs9BiMVI8tfpbm5YvNzI7_zzw3D_ob_7lLD/s1600-h/11wM5zBdeFL._SL160_AA160_.jpg"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 160px; height: 160px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGR_RKxYBrKTI6XeS_4h3Ylj8VHHdfLdcB_ChlXk6Ie0yibkFCDOBVURS9iP146U4kd2Ndxwrc4b8kodnDpcR3W1ipTynZOQov0dg4kSM3szs9BiMVI8tfpbm5YvNzI7_zzw3D_ob_7lLD/s320/11wM5zBdeFL._SL160_AA160_.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5437012982699345506" /></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;">I received an interesting question this morning:</span> <div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-family:Helvetica;font-size:medium;"><blockquote type="cite"><div><p><span style="font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;">In an effort to assimilate all that I feel necessary to learn to fulfill my responsibilities, I would like to acquire the capability to record both what you tell me and what I learn from the drummers. One choice suggested is a "small digital recorder." This is technology I have not worked with other than a telephone answering machine. What recommendations would you make on this?</span></p><p><span style="font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;">I also considered simply using the<b> Windows</b> recorder program. Have you ever used this? It would seem to me that it has the advantage of being able to be put onto a CD which I could review while in the car.</span></p></div></blockquote><p>Any type of recording devise is recommended. The small digital recorders available at Office Max/Staple's/Best Buy/Amazon are great and they are usually in the $50/range. If you haven't used this kind of technology before then don't spend a lot of money. It is a digital version of a micro-cassette recorder (the small cassette recorders of days of yore). You can listen through the built in speakers or use an ear-bud and listen OR you can download the files to your lap-top and then make a CD. Sony, RCA, Olympus, & Panasonic make a variety of models. Some have a built in USB for ease in transferring.</p><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-family:Helvetica;"><div>Using your laptops recording software is also excellent. It may be easier to then transfer to a CD. Personally--I find that if there's too many steps in dealing with technology I shut down and don't use anything. </div><div><br /></div><div>In my next post I'll discuss how to use your recordings. </div></span></span></div>Maureenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07345298369137134294noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-579720915460774933.post-37760483398360181452010-02-03T08:24:00.000-08:002010-02-04T13:21:17.435-08:00You Tube Channel<div>I'm finally getting started on a <a href="http://www.youtube.com/teachbagpipes">You Tube Channel</a>. I'll be posting videos of exercises, elements, work-outs, and lots of other 'stuff' Let me know if you have any suggestions or need help.<br /><div><br /></div><br /><div>Check out the most recent upload---Edre Demonstration. This is a Piobaireachd movement that you will need for grounds, variations as well as the Crunluath movement itself</div><br /><div></div><br /><div></div><br /><div><br /></div><br /><div><br /><br /><div><br /></div><br /><div></div></div></div>Maureenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07345298369137134294noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-579720915460774933.post-65824474126142745992010-01-21T13:15:00.000-08:002010-01-28T12:27:26.439-08:00Crossing NoisesOye, they are a pain and they must be erradicated as early as possible! If you are a new beginner, your teacher will help you identify them. If you are more experienced you may need the help of a recording devise to identify them. <br /><br /><strong>What are they?</strong><br /><br />A crossing noise is an intermediary sound between one note and another. Sometimes it's a "pop" and sometimes it sounds like a "ripple"<br /><br /><strong>Why do they happen?</strong><br /><br />They are a by-product of rushing or not playing on the beat. One finger is getting ahead of the others. When you move from one note to another, one (or more) finger is covering a note hole that shouldn't be covered. When you move between 2 notes, you should only hear the note you've just played and the note you are moving to---nothing in between.<br /><br /><br /><strong>How to avoid or get rid of Crossing Noises</strong><br /><br /> LIFT THEN DROP.<br /><br />At any given time, the highest hole uncovered is the note that will sound. If there is any lifting to take place, LIFT the note finger FIRST, then drop. Example---D to E make sure you lift the E finger before any others drop.<br /><br />If you are going down in pitch and no lifting is to take place (say High G to E) make sure G is the last finger down. NOTE FINGER LAST. In other words, don't drop the G finger, then the F finger or you will have a 'ripple' effect .Maureenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07345298369137134294noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-579720915460774933.post-64300296356699945082009-11-18T06:58:00.000-08:002009-11-18T07:16:54.779-08:00EUSPBA AGM Ceilidh<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivtdNuNQD72oBU6GtmMv9zSVJ8wjVV9lCiV8oN3RMWLTjiDiLGjrsSuYlH3Rmm-qni6KyVLL0eLcDTmic5OvrmCEJwUGZzPa6d1pWH144CuOEojnEtR2sxIgZ3nR_709zbraQRyiC-EZqz/s1600/16259_207929305850_560305850_4467843_25320_n.jpg"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 213px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivtdNuNQD72oBU6GtmMv9zSVJ8wjVV9lCiV8oN3RMWLTjiDiLGjrsSuYlH3Rmm-qni6KyVLL0eLcDTmic5OvrmCEJwUGZzPa6d1pWH144CuOEojnEtR2sxIgZ3nR_709zbraQRyiC-EZqz/s320/16259_207929305850_560305850_4467843_25320_n.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5405462658941786386" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh38dFksaHionGgWwjnupgiXEscbkGJi-5gKYUMiMTG9wISFMTSfS1Q0wJsPN3gu5ze-Q87qdCR6e27tf0t9sqVPTxIiPg2R14j8rUKAUWhsHp6lQjydIaVMqE17IS9bfnRZci-24YqPISL/s1600/16259_207929380850_560305850_4467856_6531973_n.jpg"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 213px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh38dFksaHionGgWwjnupgiXEscbkGJi-5gKYUMiMTG9wISFMTSfS1Q0wJsPN3gu5ze-Q87qdCR6e27tf0t9sqVPTxIiPg2R14j8rUKAUWhsHp6lQjydIaVMqE17IS9bfnRZci-24YqPISL/s320/16259_207929380850_560305850_4467856_6531973_n.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5405462658043171426" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpFTa2yMNjZ-d4Ic9TQ-d1vkawu_HBLn0aGz1NaSshHZBp36t-W2hOwvQVe54us974Vkzs5vJp7YvVxP2lzzJcf4muFAN1xmlcnJ_-reH7wW92uCh7ob8_vbKdu3L2nVrJwKWoYCnQ71Cv/s1600/15170_577880520822_18105625_34417246_8264940_n.jpg"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpFTa2yMNjZ-d4Ic9TQ-d1vkawu_HBLn0aGz1NaSshHZBp36t-W2hOwvQVe54us974Vkzs5vJp7YvVxP2lzzJcf4muFAN1xmlcnJ_-reH7wW92uCh7ob8_vbKdu3L2nVrJwKWoYCnQ71Cv/s320/15170_577880520822_18105625_34417246_8264940_n.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5405462652538515890" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0qcqZyha-Mx5ZUKVywX-N5wlOBo6GzDwl_dYxEOnX5O-shedOiCWztDGCzxjLsJS5SiX6u0GZ_VqNT6cIrbO9tf7OXGUstx4k4v6h89nNbE2tF5QJOLZcRzc44p3xBHRinO0RgZo9md7f/s1600/CIMG5056.JPG" style="text-decoration: none;"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0qcqZyha-Mx5ZUKVywX-N5wlOBo6GzDwl_dYxEOnX5O-shedOiCWztDGCzxjLsJS5SiX6u0GZ_VqNT6cIrbO9tf7OXGUstx4k4v6h89nNbE2tF5QJOLZcRzc44p3xBHRinO0RgZo9md7f/s320/CIMG5056.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5405460437538764450" /></a>A A really good time!!!! I danced up a storm to DJ Matt Kelly on Saturday evening. Lots of new faces in the Oran Mor Pipe Band. Oran Mor played their new 2010 Medley as well as a couple of other selections. John Bradley and Duncan Bell played a few sets and of course the Joe McGonigal led Conga Line!!!!!<div><br /></div><div><br /></div>Maureenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07345298369137134294noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-579720915460774933.post-48773361641344232612009-11-10T07:37:00.000-08:002009-11-10T07:52:35.562-08:00<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRmmAZFuld-BbebVVml88agDaeJrBrN8xWFo4I0AFgjd0tCHbBvdunFARxtoF4g7dR-lnvGCHcFaw0WXnA7ig-qGLqo6S9Ce-99Q7cQIhLCMKLLHla6Q3fZ1qZauwB5LYQA80ZaJ0B84Pu/s1600-h/CIMG5047.JPG"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRmmAZFuld-BbebVVml88agDaeJrBrN8xWFo4I0AFgjd0tCHbBvdunFARxtoF4g7dR-lnvGCHcFaw0WXnA7ig-qGLqo6S9Ce-99Q7cQIhLCMKLLHla6Q3fZ1qZauwB5LYQA80ZaJ0B84Pu/s320/CIMG5047.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5402502224670874002" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8x0xtfYun5VrTOqRHMmUBy8NgFCTYco1sWPgaWV3jwwnwEEZxGRguWG7CLchXDgNxP5mSLqOjmkKBbhIynbLwJFzx_HPPS6AfuuJ-Xv-fye-Is_zPfaNV3Lj1773-q0_s9zXPuaX2BSOQ/s1600-h/CIMG5052.JPG"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8x0xtfYun5VrTOqRHMmUBy8NgFCTYco1sWPgaWV3jwwnwEEZxGRguWG7CLchXDgNxP5mSLqOjmkKBbhIynbLwJFzx_HPPS6AfuuJ-Xv-fye-Is_zPfaNV3Lj1773-q0_s9zXPuaX2BSOQ/s320/CIMG5052.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5402502222622921170" /></a><br />On Friday night (11/6) I attended a Highland Evening with the Schenectady Pipe Band and the Braemar Highland Dancers. The event was sponsored by the St. Andrew's Society of Schenectady. The Schenectady Pipe Band recorded the concert for their first CD. After the concert they showed a video of the Capital District Scottish Games and held a ceilidh with Frank Jaklitsch. It was fun evening and great to see friends from the Albany Police Pipe Band. Dan Mancuso played a solo at the concert and this photo is of Dan Cole and Dan Mancuso--both originally from the Scotia-Glenville Pipe Band and Scotia-Glenville High School!!! Although not the original 'Dan Squared' I'm sure they could revive that act for the Tartan Turkey Talent Show before Thanksgiving<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.blogger.com/video.g?token=AD6v5dx4lKuS6vPLgTu9ZFA8LOAJ97Rkmeu1RJwXBw2YpuOYeThooDzXe9LO_-qY0qIIVZIoYYmM44Y5KTT9bmUkoA' class='b-hbp-video b-uploaded' frameborder='0'></iframe>Maureenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07345298369137134294noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-579720915460774933.post-19277321627747864552009-10-22T09:48:00.000-07:002009-10-27T07:21:20.740-07:00Before Pipe Bands.......Marching Band<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAxB0AQNzF9idxZ24Pn2VkF8ergPpc8b8sqIexlz7xAuhzOZDF2hYIBvx7Ms1vmsNbm7QeiVWf-a3FIg7ss58cP3jCrKRCobsX87k2TwM-JLr_8j0bPEknhpjDvD-x-GhJtfRfa71Xrh63/s1600-h/CIMG5023.JPG"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAxB0AQNzF9idxZ24Pn2VkF8ergPpc8b8sqIexlz7xAuhzOZDF2hYIBvx7Ms1vmsNbm7QeiVWf-a3FIg7ss58cP3jCrKRCobsX87k2TwM-JLr_8j0bPEknhpjDvD-x-GhJtfRfa71Xrh63/s320/CIMG5023.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5397284645437960450" /></a><br />Before I was a piper or played in Pipe Bands, I was in Marching Band!!! In college I played the Tenor Saxophone and marched in the UMass Minuteman Marching Band. <div><br /></div><div>This past weekend was Homecoming and the University held a ground breaking ceremony for the new band building . It was quite moving to consider that George Parks has been the director for 33 years and taught over 4000 students. Just like anyone who has been a member of the "Power and Class of New England" I can say that my experiences in the band taught me incredible life lessons--about working on a team and doing your best so that the entire presentation was excellent. George told us we were the best band in New England (or anywhere) and we believed it and we worked hard to make sure we were (Aggaainnnn). We made lifelong friends, served in leadership positions in the band (which is entirely student run) or some days, just made it practice on time (to be early is to be on time, to be on time is to be late.....). </div><div><br /></div><div>Through it all George Parks demanded excellence and never apologized for his expectations. He has the BIGGEST vision of what the band could be and should be. As the Director of a Pipe Band, I often use his lines, remember his words of wisdom (Eyes--With Pride) and am thankful that I had those experiences in college. I hope that I can do the same for the Scotia-Glenville Pipe Band.</div>Maureenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07345298369137134294noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-579720915460774933.post-41913189814863984042009-10-12T10:43:00.000-07:002009-10-12T11:32:51.368-07:00Band Day October 2009Scotia-Glenville Pipe Band held it's first Band Day of the new year. We spent time making sure the pipes were in order AND got acquainted with the Manometer. This will be the big push for the year---getting relatively new pipers 'blowing better tone'. The Grade 3 band has welcomed back some alumni and it was great to see Andrew Wilkenson and Brandon Madigan! Chris Babcock is also planning on coming back.<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />The drummers were hard at work reviewing and learning new material. I'll have photo's of them next time!!!!!<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.blogger.com/video.g?token=AD6v5dyuEyTHfeDxbZ6xdfanD8447qhZkFqZnCC8u5GIl-mJ6aAmlVkVJg6uVEtbD57kNmX4P2iEesjXmUhZgJfQ7A' class='b-hbp-video b-uploaded' frameborder='0'></iframe>Maureenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07345298369137134294noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-579720915460774933.post-2988841228088105382009-10-07T09:08:00.000-07:002009-10-07T09:31:57.396-07:00Fountain Trust Pipe Band<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgA8P8xnfQP7iuJtb2hSc4aAzTF_KuYn_bPzbIlAVYh0aOj3EDFnTUY8bJfBXlIsUKTce89ej6goK0goxJTEVPnzoiAtwpm7vQdywsVW3fIG12fdtfEo4peQ8jaImeTWuBSwaCO0v3gYn0G/s1600-h/CIMG0343.JPG"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgA8P8xnfQP7iuJtb2hSc4aAzTF_KuYn_bPzbIlAVYh0aOj3EDFnTUY8bJfBXlIsUKTce89ej6goK0goxJTEVPnzoiAtwpm7vQdywsVW3fIG12fdtfEo4peQ8jaImeTWuBSwaCO0v3gYn0G/s320/CIMG0343.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5389896353818882802" /></a><br />This past weekend, Eric MacNeill and I travelled out to Fountain County, Indiana to work with the Fountain Trust Pipe Band. We've been working with them for a couple of years now. They are a Grade 4 Pipe Band, led by Campbell White, Pipe Major. <div><br /></div><div>We spent time working on their new Competition Quick March Set and playing through material for the Tartan Ball they will be hosting on November 21 at the Purdue Ballrooms, West Lafayette, IN. </div><div><br /></div><div>Here's a link to their site http://www.fountaintrustpipeband.com/</div><div><br /></div><div>Jayne and Kip White are awesome hosts---a great weekend of piping and drumming among the cornfields of Indiana!!</div><div><br /></div>Maureenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07345298369137134294noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-579720915460774933.post-86484909854131584602009-09-23T07:40:00.001-07:002009-09-23T07:42:28.079-07:00Hobart Pipes and DrumsI travel down to Oneonta, NY to work with members of the Hobart Pipes and Drums as well as coach the band. Journalists from the Daily Star stopped by last night to interview members of the band. Here's a link to the article in the Daily Star<div><br /></div><div>http://www.thedailystar.com/local/local_story_266040046.html</div><div><br /></div><div>If you're in the Oneonta area and are interested in learning to play Pipes or Drums please contact me.</div>Maureenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07345298369137134294noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-579720915460774933.post-84008260143427524632009-09-23T07:20:00.000-07:002009-09-23T07:24:45.370-07:00Scotia-Glenville Pipe Band Open HouseDo you know a young child that is interested in learning to play the pipes or drums?????? The Scotia-Glenville Pipe Band will be hosting an Open House on Wednesday September 30th at 7:00 p.m. at the Scotia-Glenville Middle School. <div><br /></div><div>We welcome learners and players from all over the Capital District. At the Open House you will learn about the pipes and drums, our education programs, meet the instructors, hear the band, and meet the band members. </div><div><br /></div><div>Check out our Web Site www.sgpipeband.com </div><div><br /></div><div>Or email me at meconnor@earthlink.net</div><div><br /></div><div>We look forward to meeting you.</div>Maureenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07345298369137134294noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-579720915460774933.post-73790685829681857022009-09-09T12:31:00.000-07:002009-09-10T09:48:32.184-07:00Pipe Band Idol!!!!!!!<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIBjZ5F9beiI9mK1gaTtR7lDnGseVO3RCFXD4Fo3HJL44XZDL1C-uOFpLXxusfh1zZU4nUL8Psnj6e4YrFDWme-pnhoBGnWsYnT-i1k6zeGrkVk3GgJ6Y0RJB44uGcKiQfBedbMvXR1mLm/s1600-h/IMG_6206.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIBjZ5F9beiI9mK1gaTtR7lDnGseVO3RCFXD4Fo3HJL44XZDL1C-uOFpLXxusfh1zZU4nUL8Psnj6e4YrFDWme-pnhoBGnWsYnT-i1k6zeGrkVk3GgJ6Y0RJB44uGcKiQfBedbMvXR1mLm/s320/IMG_6206.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5379881497617118850" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmd4zBhMkHIDhhYyVmSwNSfe6OwzF7JN9yhp_S1FlML4Lbkw-tB2HhNXLv2OP3df32xoBPoHSGMCPbHPZkIpnfUqzyyO3qpjUTrqd0EwW4Yul2aqxr4WllQHOEkiiyx_WMixygEjRM6CKp/s1600-h/9334_1133493176448_1200851572_30347924_386332_n.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 241px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmd4zBhMkHIDhhYyVmSwNSfe6OwzF7JN9yhp_S1FlML4Lbkw-tB2HhNXLv2OP3df32xoBPoHSGMCPbHPZkIpnfUqzyyO3qpjUTrqd0EwW4Yul2aqxr4WllQHOEkiiyx_WMixygEjRM6CKp/s320/9334_1133493176448_1200851572_30347924_386332_n.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5379881490747857426" /></a><br />What an awesome weekend at the Capital District Scottish Games (the BEST Scottish Games in the County) We had a decent day on Saturday--3rd in the MSR Open Challenge and 5th in the Medley contest. On Sunday we WON the Pipe Band Idol Competition!!!! Each of the bands performed a 20 minute concert of their best material. Voting was done by audience members...could it have been the cuteness factor???? <div><br /></div><div>It was a great finish to a really excellent season---thanks to all the players for their dedication and their parent for their support</div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div>Maureenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07345298369137134294noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-579720915460774933.post-22249406186254741802009-08-23T17:31:00.000-07:002009-09-10T11:24:07.351-07:00Scotia-Glenville Pipe Band at The World's<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizI1dlP8hl6UKc3efN2MmwDAen7lx_-ECU8es9TG4ylVcLa2QzbYSib4NO7ki_hEKmDjgG5lE7VDch7HZcjcSnL5hk6UhL-Kgych8EpYIBCYzrLn4SUNdmTS1mF4YnVaFvfV88mUkqDHBA/s1600-h/CIMG4879.JPG"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizI1dlP8hl6UKc3efN2MmwDAen7lx_-ECU8es9TG4ylVcLa2QzbYSib4NO7ki_hEKmDjgG5lE7VDch7HZcjcSnL5hk6UhL-Kgych8EpYIBCYzrLn4SUNdmTS1mF4YnVaFvfV88mUkqDHBA/s320/CIMG4879.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5373321892966872146" /></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial, serif;">Wow!!!! The Scotia-Glenville Pipe Band placed 3rd at The World Pipe Band Championships in Glasgow Scotland!!!!! This year, 2009, we competed in Juvenile (last time, 2007, it was Novice Juvenile) We also won North Berwick Juvenile and placed 3rd at the Perth Highland Games. I'm so so so fortunate to be able to teach an awesome group of kids and to have the support of Eric MacNeill and Andrew Douglas. </span><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial, serif;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial, serif;">What a great day for the band and I'm so proud of all the band members</span></div><iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.blogger.com/video.g?token=AD6v5dyIvNlvJKXR0Eg8Sj7Y_cM_wamnvmPYaLYfBdjELUQ1aAR5vPsBrh--JOjl3QahidJDrPIseDptlGheOIYrDg' class='b-hbp-video b-uploaded' frameborder='0'></iframe>Maureenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07345298369137134294noreply@blogger.com0