Vienna Pipes & Drums offer a teaching program for Scottish bagpipes and Scottish drumming. We welcome anyone who is enthusiastic about bagpipe music and willing to put in the hard work necessary to learn the instruments.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why Scottish bagpipes?
Playing the bagpipes is an extraordinary musical skill, and a great way to have fun, travel the world, and meet new people. Our band members are more than just club colleagues – firm friendships have been made as we have traveled and made music together in many European countries.
Who can come to lessons?
We have a limited number of places for children from primary school age. Children do not need any special musical talent or previous knowledge, anyone who wants to learn Scottish bagpipes or Scottish drumming can take part. The lessons are held in German and English, so a side benefit is that learners can also improve their English skills.
The learning program is mainly aimed at children, but we can help enthusiastic adult learners in other ways – e.g. through one-on-one lessons from experienced tutors among the band members.
Get in touch with us and we’ll help you!
Where? When?
The learner group takes place every Wednesday from 17:30-18:30 at the Pfarrsaal der Pfarre St. Florian, Wiedner Hauptstraße 97, 1050, Vienna. You are welcome to come and have a look and let yourself be inspired by the fascination of the bagpipes.
How long does it take to learn to play the Scottish bagpipe or drum?
Scottish bagpipes are not an easy instrument, and it can take a while before you can play them. With regular practice, you should be able to do so in one to two years.
All beginners start by learning basic finger techniques and their first tunes on a “practice chanter”, which is similar to a recorder. Even advanced players continue to practice regularly with the practice chanter, e.g. to learn new tunes. The practice chanter is an essential part of learning and playing the instrument, and is a lifelong companion for any bagpipe player.
How much will it cost? What do I bring?
There are no monthly fees, the lessons are basically free. The band will provide you with learning materials, practice chanters, or drum pads for drumming. There are no costs involved here either. We want to use this offer to find new members who will stay and become part of the full band, so the membership fee is the only cost and amounts to €150 per year.
You only need your own set of Scottish bagpipes after you have learned the basics and a few tunes, and can play the practice chanter with some confidence.
Warning: Unfortunately, there are many cheap, poor quality Scottish bagpipes on the market with which you will never be able to learn properly. Please never buy a bagpipe on your own before a teacher recommends it – we will support you with specialist knowledge.
How do I register?
Either send an email with your contact details and age to learn@viennapipes.com or use the Contact Form on our website.