"Multitasking is a way of fooling ourselves that we’re being exceptionally efficient."

Did you learn to play exclusively on a practice chanter, have to get a few tunes (with all embellishments included) memorized, and only then transition to the bagpipes – where you then had to juggle posture, blowing steadily, and many other skills at once?

Like in every other walk of life – for bagpipers, multitasking doesn't work. So is there a better way to transition from practice chanter to bagpipes?

In this first instalment of a two-parter, we explore how many traditional methods can be overwhelmingly complex for beginners, and how a singular focus can help actually help pipers speed up their progress – without ingraining bad habits. We also look at how the mystical Joe Brady helped with the missing piece of the puzzle, and try not to get too bummed that we'll never be as happy looking in a mirror as Lincoln Hilton...

Got a question or topic you'd like answered in a future episode? Leave a comment or email it to [email protected]!