Lesson 1: Assembling the Practice Chanter

(Timestamped)

0:00 – 0:08 | Introduction

• Welcome to Day 1 of your bagpipe journey.

• Focus: Practice chanter setup.

0:09 – 0:21 | Assembled Chanter Overview

• Chanter may arrive pre-assembled or in parts.

• Look at assembled chanter and familiarize yourself with its parts.

0:22 – 0:35 | Taking the Chanter Apart Safely

• Chanter splits into bottom section and top section.

• Older chanters may have a ferrule or sole that is missing (no problem).

• Hold one part with a bicycle grip and twist gently, don’t pull straight.

0:36 – 1:34 | Removing the Reed

• Twist the reed gently to loosen, then lift out.

• Only touch the bottom or black part of the reed, avoid the blades.

• Check for hemp on the bottom; ensure reed seat is clear.

1:35 – 2:58 | Inspecting Chanter for Obstructions

• Look through the chanter at a light; remove any leftover hemp.

• Can use a needle or very small screwdriver or brush to clear debris if needed.

• If shipped in three parts, place reed in reed seat snugly, twist slightly.

2:59 – 4:09 | Assembling the Top Section

• Align top section over reed carefully.

• Hold close to edges to avoid damage.

• Slide in slowly, like the space station docking or in the game of Operation.

4:10 – 4:27 | Adjusting Fit

• Chanter may feel loose if it’s old or hasn’t been used for a spell.

• Check snugness before proceeding.

4:28 – 5:58 | Tightening with Hemp

• Use waxed or unwaxed hemp, or tooth floss temporarily if necessary.

• Place hemp at top edge of the joint.

• Wrap around one full rotation downward in corkscrew motion.

• Wrap the last wind at the top so hemp isn’t pushed down to the bottom.

5:59 – 6:15 | Final Assembly Check

• Place top section over bottom section; hemp should create a  snug fit.

• If too tight, remove some hemp.

• Chanter is now ready for playing.