The Blue Ridge Irish Music School is so happy to be able to support a Uilleann Piping program. With opportunities for the brand new piper through advanced lifelong players, BRIMS brings together expert teachers, musicians, and community resources to host tionols, concerts, and workshops for pipers across the region. We offer a place (both digital and physical!) for pipers to gather and share resources, recommendations, tunes and whatever information helps them further the special art of uilleann piping!
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What are Uilleann Pipes?
The Uilleann Pipes- (pronounced ill-inn ) in their current form, have been the
traditional bagpipes of Ireland for over 300 years. They have been certified by
UNESCO as an important and unique cultural symbol and has been added to the
UNESCO list of “Intangible Cultural Heritage “.
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Special threads in our forum dedicated to piping! Find out about upcoming events, share resources, compare notes, whatever is on your piping mind!
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Testimonials
"I had the honor of teaching at the first on-site BRIMS Piping Tionól in November 2023. Despite it being the first of its kind, it was a well attended and very well-organized event, hosted in a very relaxed and friendly environment with pipers from all over the region. Players of all levels took part in the classes, with opportunities even for players without pipes to try out and have their first instruction. A very worthwhile event that I would encourage all pipers to attend." Cillian Vallely
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Read More
Students & Parents
Click to open documents relating to care of pipes, practice etc...
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Uilleann Pipe Care and Mainenance
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Try The Pipes
BRIMS is now offering a “hands-on” experience with the Pipes. Many pipers say it was the sound of the Chanter that drew them to the pipes. It seems to register something in your brain that you can’t seem to shake!
"Try The Pipes” events allow children 10 yrs and older - and adults- to sit down with an experienced piper for a guided experience in Irish piping. Young aspiring pipers require a certain reach/hand size - we can help you determine if your child is ready! Your "Try The Pipes" session is free of charge, guided by an experienced piper, you get a thorough and fun introduction to the Uilleann Pipes!
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If after “Trying The Pipes” – you think you would like to begin the process of learning the instrument, one of our BRIMS pipers can guide you through the process. We Can’t wait to share this amazing instrument with you!
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BRIMS Piping Events
Helpful Links
The Society of Uilleann Pipers known as Na Píobairí Uilleann (The Uilleann Pipers)
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Irish Traditional Music Archive
https://www.itma.ie/instruments/uilleann-pipes/
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Uilleann Obsession
https://www.uilleannobsession.com/
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Willie Clancy Music Festival
Every July, traditional Irish musicians, dancers, and singers from around the world find their way to West Clare- Miltown Malbay- for the Willie Clancy Music Festival.
This year, 1,500 students took part in classes for the week. The six-day festival draws thousands more for the best “craic” in Ireland.
This year, BRIMS had two pipers attend classes. They also attended the “Piping Heaven and Hell” session in Ennis, organized by Blackie O’Connell- one of the best Irish pipers. Great music- great friends- great fun!!