join a pipe band!
You: Teale, I really want to join a pipe band as soon as possible. What's the best instrument for me to learn quickly so I can get in on all the sweet action?
Teale: Well, there's no straight forward answer to that question. You should learn the instrument that interests you most. All instruments require a lot of practice to play well and you're not going to practice an instrument that doesn't interest you. Likewise, you won't play an instrument well if you don't practice.
You: Yeah, yeah. But really, it seems like say, the bass might be easy to learn. I mean, you just have to keep a steady beat, right? That seems easy...right?
Teale: WRONG! While the bass doesn't require the muscle memory that perhaps the tenor and side do, it takes a great sense of rhythm and agility to not only keep the entire band playing together, but to also provide interesting counterpoints to the score to prevent the bass line from getting monotonous. Personally, I find the bass to be really fun but also challenging because of the physicality of the instrument. But that's me. I'm not you. I'm me. You're you. And it's your time. It's YOUR time - down here. That's all over the second we ride up Troy's bucket.
You: Wait, what?
Teale: What? Oh, sorry.
You: That's okay.
Teale: That being said, we can discuss your goals and tailor your lessons to what you want to achieve. If you're looking to join a pipe band right away, I can help you find one that will suit you. I can also tailor your lessons to get you up and out on the parade route. New York has plenty of pipe bands but they can be hard to navigate. They all have different standards, repertoires, and goals. This effects the music selections they play, the types of events they play, their level of competition (if any) and the social aspects of the band. I'm in several bands and they're all quite different. It's important to find a pipe band that suits you.
You: Not to mention joining the band that has the coolest kilts! That's the most important part.
Teale: OMG, really?!
You: Sorry.
Teale: That's okay.
You: Will it cost a lot to join a pipe band? Will I have to buy a drum and uniform?
Teale: Most pipe bands will provide you with most of the uniform such as the kilt, sporran, waistcoat, tie, and glengarry. The pipe band will buy their own drums so that they are all the same. You would not have to buy a drum. If you take side drum lessons, you would have to buy a pair of sticks ($20) and practice pad ($20-$40). Tenor mallets will cost $40 and up.
You: Well this all sounds swell. Um, Teale - I've heard things about being in a pipe band....like things - you know?
Teale: Yes.
You: So, is it all true??
Teale: Yes.
You: Well, gosh. Is joining a pipe band for me??
Teale: Yes!
