The Royal Scots Cap Badge

Left Handed Bagpiper

by Gerry Keoghan
(Ireland)

Hi Pipemajor Robertson
I am learning to play on the practice chanter.
Im left handed and hold the bag under my right shoulder.

I have been told to try it under my left shoulder
for uniformity and its easier to learn but I am natural left handed.

Any advice.

Regards,
Gerry Keoghan




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Left Handed Bagpiper

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Oct 02, 2011
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starstarstarstarstar 		play they way you feel is right
by: Anonymous

I am left handed. During my first lesson, my instructor had me try to play left handed. I absolutely could not do it; the whole thing just felt "wrong." When I was younger, we visited a golf course and I wanted to hit some balls. They did not have any left-handed clubs. Somebody there told me I should learn how to play right-handed in any event. I tried to hit some balls right-handed; could not do it.

IMHO, play what is comfortable for YOU. Some person telling you how to play might be in conflict with how your body wants you to play. Your body will tell you...others will just have to deal with it.
Sep 29, 2011
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starstarstarstarstar 		Left handed bagpiper
by: Bill Robertson

Hello Gerry,
In the the recent past some great pipers playing left-handed played either way. I suggest to do what you think would be more comfortable for you - perhaps with the bag on the right side.
Good basic advice from S.Bond.
All the best,
Bill
Sep 29, 2011
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starstarstarstarstar 		left-handed piper
by: SBond

Gerry
I am missing my compete left index finger. So l play with the rest of my fingers moved up. Its fun to watch new pipers in the circle when we play I tend to mess them up.

I attended Balmoral this year in Naperville and really learned a lot and improved my piping. I was really impressed with Brian Donaldson of Inveran Bagpipes on the second day he called me over ad played a tune and asked how did it sound Lad. Being that came from a world champion I said Great Sir! He replied I will play it again watch my fingers. Well what do know he had moved all his fingers up too feel what it was like for me...A great teacher.

Bottom line is learn the right way lots of practice and you will become a good piper. I started playing at 51yr and realized I have missed out on a lot of fun..

Good luck my friend

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