Pipers

Pipers are musicians who play pipes—wind instruments that produce sound from enclosed air supplied by the player. The term most commonly refers to bagpipers, but it can apply to players of other pipe instruments as used in traditional music around the world. Piping is a long-standing form of folk and ceremonial music in many cultures.

The bagpipe is the best-known pipe instrument. The Great Highland bagpipe is iconic in Scotland; other varieties include the Irish uilleann pipes, Scottish smallpipes, Northumbrian smallpipes, Border pipes, and European varieties such as the Galician gaita and Breton binioù. All involve a bag to supply a continuous air stream, pads and drones for harmony, and a chanter for melody. Playing requires coordinated embouchure (or bellows) and fingering, and often a high degree of stamina.

Historically, pipers have played roles in military and ceremonial settings. In medieval and early modern Europe and in Scotland, pipers led troops, announced processions, and performed at feasts and funerals. In modern times, pipers perform in solo recitals, at weddings and funerals, and as members of pipe bands, which compete in formal championships such as the world championships and regional contests. The repertoire ranges from marches and pibroch (classical bagpipe music) to contemporary compositions.

Pipers are found worldwide, reflecting the global distribution of pipe traditions. The culture around piping includes apprenticeship, piping schools, and international competitions that help preserve regional styles while encouraging innovation.