MEDIEVAL BAGPIPE IN A MINOR WITH 2 DRONES

It uses an open fingering system that is easy to learn and offers a prompt response, making it ideal for performing both historical tunes and folk repertoire.

The instrument is tuned to A = 440 Hz, the standard for playing in ensembles and outdoor reenactments alongside davuls, drums, and other acoustic or electric instruments.

Delrin offers absolute stability: it is immune to moisture and temperature fluctuations, requires no warming up before playing, and maintains perfect tuning under any climate conditions—ideal for outdoor performances and parades.

The tone and overall sound performance remain virtually identical compared to the Service Tree (Sorbus) wood chanter. However, the Delrin chanter has slightly less volume. The total price of the instrument remains unchanged (simply specify your preference in the order notes).

The leather bag offers a traditional period feel and aesthetic (ideal for costumed reenactments) and comes pre-treated and ready for use. The synthetic Canmore bag made of Gore-Tex® guarantees maximum breathability, zero maintenance for sealing, and includes a convenient zipper for internal inspection and drying.

The chanter reed is made of cane, while the two drone reeds are synthetic. The cane reed is affected by moisture, so it is recommended to remove it from the chanter after every playing session. The synthetic drone reeds can be left installed and guarantee great long-term tuning stability.

It is an instrument with a very powerful and bright volume, designed to project clearly outdoors, during parades, medieval festivals, and alongside loud percussion. It is strictly not an indoor or apartment instrument: playing it indoors will easily overpower delicate instruments and disturb neighbors.

It is a bagpipe that demands significant physical stamina and lung capacity, fully comparable to the physical effort required by a standard Great Highland Bagpipe. It is designed for those seeking a commanding sound experience and strong physical presence.

The 1-drone version delivers a more compact, direct, and essential sound with only the bass drone accompaniment. The 2-drone version offers a richer and more enveloping sound performance: the octave interval between the two drones generates a deep harmonic background that blends with the chanter melody, making the instrument sound fuller and more complete.

The hollowed bell adds projection and color to the bass drone. Being removable, it makes the instrument more compact and practical to pack into the carrying case during transport.

Due to the considerable physical pressure required for blowing, we strongly recommend that absolute beginners start learning fingerings using a Practice Chanter or the Medieval Student Bagpipe, before transitioning to this high-volume model once sufficient stamina is built.

The Medieval Bagpipe comes complete with a cane chanter reed, synthetic reeds for both drones, a non-toxic black Delrin blowpipe mouthpiece, your choice of bag (leather or synthetic) with bag cover, and a 2 cm padded soft case featuring shoulder straps, handle, and a top pocket.

The stated lead time begins upon order confirmation and the start of handcrafted production in our workshop.

Yes, aesthetic customizations such as pyrography or wood carvings (e.g., medieval motifs, coats of arms, or initials) can be requested by contacting us before or during the order process.

Absolutely. As direct artisan makers, we offer full post-sales support for reed adjustment, wood maintenance, and any replacement parts required over the years.

Tuning is adjusted by lengthening or shortening the drones: lengthening makes the note flatter (lower), while shortening makes it sharper (higher). To tune, play the note A on the chanter: the bass drone should be tuned two octaves lower (A), while the second drone plays one octave below the chanter (A). The thread bindings on the joints should slide smoothly but remain snug without play; otherwise, air will leak, making tuning impossible. Specific synthetic thread is included in the package to adjust joint thickness.

Inside the stocks of both drones, there are natural foam sponges designed to absorb moisture from the airflow and ensure an even air stream to the reeds. They should be removed and checked every six months. Replacement sponges are included in the package. Please note: sponges must never be inserted into the blowpipe stock.

To preserve the wood over time, it is necessary to oil the internal bores of the drones, stocks, and chanter (if made of wood) at least twice a year using exclusively **pure almond oil**. Always dry off any moisture and saliva residue after playing. Never use alcohol to clean the instrument, as it will destroy the handcrafted shellac finish.

It is essential to remove the cane reed from the chanter and disconnect the blowpipe from the bag. If the blowpipe is left inserted, accumulated saliva can rot the bindings or risk cracking the wooden stock. Additionally, after about an hour of continuous playing, it is recommended to dry off condensation inside the chanter to keep the tuning stable.

Cold weather makes the tuning flat, while warm weather makes it sharp. Before adjusting the reeds, play for 5 to 10 minutes to allow the wood to warm up and the tuning to stabilize. If the temperature drops below -5°C (23°F), playing is not recommended to prevent wood cracks caused by thermal shock. Never use hairdryers or heaters to dry the instrument.

The chanter is the most delicate part of the instrument. To insert or remove it from the stock, grip **exclusively on the wooden mount ("bulb/ball")** located near the joint. Never exert leverage or twisting force on the middle or end section of the chanter, as this may cause it to snap.

To check airtightness, place stoppers on the drone and chanter stocks and inflate the bag. If the bindings have loosened (a natural occurrence due to micro-movements of new wood), re-bind them tightly using the provided black synthetic thread. If the leather bag loses airtightness after about a year, we supply our specific seasoning fat to restore sealing (do not use Airtight Seasoning or products designed for Scottish Highland bagpipes).