Northumbrian smallpipes facts for kids
The Northumbrian smallpipes are a special type of bagpipes that come from North East England. People also call them the Northumbrian pipes. These pipes are different from other bagpipes because they are quieter and have a unique sound. They are often played indoors and are a big part of the traditional music of Northumberland.
Contents
What Are Northumbrian Smallpipes?
Northumbrian smallpipes are a musical instrument that uses air stored in a bag to make sound. Unlike the loud Scottish bagpipes, these pipes are much softer. This makes them perfect for playing inside homes or small halls. They have a sweet, clear sound that is very pleasant to listen to.
How Do They Work?
Like all bagpipes, the Northumbrian smallpipes have a bag, a blowpipe, a chanter, and drones.
- The bag holds the air. Players fill it by blowing into the blowpipe or by using bellows.
- The blowpipe is where the player blows air into the bag. Some smallpipes use bellows instead. Bellows are like a small pump that you strap to your arm. They push air into the bag without you having to blow. This means the player doesn't get out of breath!
- The chanter is the part that plays the tune. It looks like a small flute with finger holes. What makes the Northumbrian chanter special is that it's "closed-ended." This means when all the holes are covered, the sound stops. This allows players to create a unique staccato (short, sharp) sound.
- The drones are pipes that play a continuous, unchanging note. They provide a background harmony to the tune played on the chanter. Northumbrian smallpipes usually have several drones, which can be turned on or off.
A Look Back: History of the Pipes
The Northumbrian smallpipes have a long and interesting history. They developed from earlier types of bagpipes in the 18th century. By the 19th century, they became very popular in Northumberland. Many families owned a set of pipes, and they were played at parties, dances, and local gatherings.
Famous Players and Makers
Over the years, many talented musicians have played the Northumbrian smallpipes. One of the most famous was Billy Pigg (1902–1968). He was a master of the instrument and helped keep its music alive. His recordings are still studied by pipers today. There have also been many skilled pipe makers who crafted these beautiful instruments. Their careful work ensures the pipes sound their best.
The Sound of Northumberland
The music played on Northumbrian smallpipes is often traditional folk music from the region. This includes jigs, reels, hornpipes, and slow airs. The unique sound of the pipes adds a special feeling to these tunes. The music often tells stories of the local area, its people, and its history.
Learning to Play
Learning to play the Northumbrian smallpipes can be a fun and rewarding experience. It takes practice, just like any instrument. Many communities in North East England offer lessons and workshops. There are also online resources and teachers who can help you learn. Playing these pipes connects you to a rich musical tradition.
Images for kids
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Billy Pigg, a famous Northumbrian smallpipes player.
