450 - Is Moisture Good Or Bad For Pipers? (Dojo Conversations Ep 120) Piper's Dojo Audio Experience podcast

38:13

Ever felt like you're spinning in circles trying to fix everything at once – tuning, timing, pressure, remembering tunes, embellishments? You don’t have to do it all at once. In fact, you shouldn’t. Progress doesn’t have to mean doing more; it can mean doing less, but better. Focusing on just one thing at a time can transform your piping – and your confidence. This week, Andrew and Jim get real about the chaos that can come with learning the pipes. From fasting before blood work to skeptical takes on DNA kits (and a few hilarious piping mishaps along the way), they unpack the power of focusing on just one thing at a time. Whether you're just starting out or you've been playing for years, you'll pick up some solid, practical tips for structuring your practice, cutting down on overwhelm, and tuning into what really matters. Got a question or topic you’d like us to cover in a future episode? Leave a comment or email us: support@pipersdojo.com Here’s what we cover this week: 00:00 Introduction and Morning Struggles 00:54 DNA Kits and Genetic Skepticism 02:25 Bagpipe Challenges and Overwhelm 04:42 The Importance of Routine in Bagpiping 16:02 Learning and Teaching Bagpipes 19:13 Setting Up Your Bagpipes 19:40 Starting with the Drones 19:48 Introducing the Chanter 20:31 Proper Bag Inflation 21:32 Learning Tunes One Step at a Time 22:40 Listening to Different Renditions 27:43 Adding Embellishments Gradually 28:39 The Importance of Focus 33:52 Juggling and Multitasking 36:45 Wrapping Up and Final Thoughts…

Piper's Dojo Audio Experience

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453 - The Three Minute Drill: Quickfire Bagpipe Q&A (Dojo Conversations Episode 123) 26:34

7 days ago26:34

26:34

This week, Andrew and Jim tackle more bagpipe questions – but the pressure is on to keep their answers within 3 minutes. They discuss the timing for forming a circle during competitions, milestones for learning embellishments, options for band uniforms on hot days, how to know when a bag needs seasoning, and strategies for handling personal items when a sporran isn’t big enough. Tune in for some practical, straightforward advice! Got a topic you'd like to discuss on a future episode? Leave a comment or email us: support@pipersdojo.com Here's what we cover this week: 00:00 Introduction to the Three Minute Drill 01:13 Forming a Circle in Competitions 05:15 Learning Milestones for Bagpipers 09:40 Band Polos and Short-Sleeved Shirts 14:01 Bagpipe Seasoning: When and How 14:57 Avoiding Over-Seasoning Mishaps 16:39 Packing Tips for Parades 17:18 The Minimalist Approach to Carrying Essentials 20:18 Highland Gear: Functionality and Style 22:28 Final Thoughts and Recap…

Piper's Dojo Audio Experience

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452 - Could Fear of Being Wrong Be Blocking Your Piping Progress? (Dojo Conversations Episode 122) 46:18

14 days ago46:18

46:18

Ever hold back in a practice session because you're worried you'll mess it up? Or stay quiet in band because you're afraid your idea might be wrong? In this episode, we’re diving into a powerful idea from philosophy called fallibilism—the belief that no matter how much you know, you could still be wrong. And honestly? That’s a gift. Especially in a pursuit like piping, where tradition runs deep and gatekeeping can shut down growth. We’re talking about why embracing mistakes, questioning ‘the rules,’ and letting go of the fear of being wrong might be exactly what you need to become a better, bolder, more creative piper. Let’s rethink what it means to play it “the right way.” Got a topic you’d like us to cover in a future episode? Leave a comment or email us: support@pipersdojo.com Here’s what we cover this week: 00:00 Introduction to Amateur Philosophy Hour 00:16 Discussing David Deutsch's The Beginning of Infinity 00:46 Empiricism and Fallibilism Explained 01:24 The Enlightenment and Its Impact 02:36 The Role of Observation in Knowledge 03:22 Fallibilism in Everyday Life 06:09 Fallibilism in Bagpiping 06:41 The Myth of Infallibility in Bagpiping 14:12 Teaching and Learning in Bagpiping 20:57 The Journey of Improvement in Bagpiping 23:58 Mad Genius and the Reality of Creativity 25:03 The Concept of Fallibilism 25:49 Balancing and Adaptation 27:30 Growth Mindset in Piping 32:25 Criticism and Learning 36:22 The Role of Tradition 39:21 Fallibilism in Governance 41:45 Embracing Imperfection in Piping…

Piper's Dojo Audio Experience

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451 - Why Mentorship Matters (Dojo Conversations Episode 121) 35:38

21 days ago35:38

35:38

It's easy to assume that mentorship is most crucial during childhood. But what about those who discover piping later in life? Whether you're a beginner at 40 or picking it up again after years, having a mentor can make all the difference. This week, Andrew and Jim are diving into the importance of strong mentors in your piping journey, throwing back to Andrew’s early piping journey including his first contests, experience with piping at a boarding school, and the influential great pipers who were strong mentor figures in his life. Got a topic you’d like covered in a future episode? Leave a comment or email us: support@pipersdojo.com Here’s what we cover this week: 00:00 Breaking In New Boots 01:05 Silent Practice Chanter Launch 01:47 Young Andrew Douglas' Bagpipe Journey 02:54 The Yips and Focal Dystonia 07:06 Mohawk Valley Frasers and Pipe Band History 14:53 Boarding School and Piping Education 18:26 Recording Project in 12th Grade 19:25 Jack Lee's Influence and Critique 19:58 Boarding School and Competitions 21:36 Immersion and Obsession in Piping 27:20 The Role of Luck and Identity 30:01 The Importance of Enjoying Piping 33:29 Final Thoughts on Piping and Life…

Piper's Dojo Audio Experience

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450 - Is Moisture Good or Bad for Pipers? (Dojo Conversations Ep 120) 55:41

28 days ago55:41

55:41

Ever picked up your pipes on a rainy day and wondered why they sounded... different? Or maybe you’ve struggled to keep them in tune during a frosty morning performance? Humidity and bagpipes have a complicated relationship – sometimes best friends, sometimes worst enemies. This week, Andrew and Jim explore the crucial role of humidity for pipers – and how much is too much. They discuss using hygrometers, the effects of temperature and humidity on tuning, and why playing in the right conditions can make all the difference. Plus, catch some top tips for keeping your pipes in top condition whether you're playing in hot, humid summers or freezing winters. Got a topic you’d like covered in a future episode? Leave a comment or email us: support@pipersdojo.com Here’s what we cover this week: 00:00 Casual Catch-Up and Travel Plans 00:58 Parenting Challenges and Winter Woes 02:35 Florida Adventures and Gator Anxiety 04:45 Sunburns and Bagpipe Competitions 06:50 The Science of Hygrometers 15:09 Practical Applications of Hygrometers 18:26 Temperature and Humidity Effects on Bagpipes 24:29 The Glasgow Lands Effect 26:14 Understanding the Impact of Humidity on Bagpipes 26:49 Condensation and Its Effects on Bagpipes 27:35 Ideal Conditions for Playing Bagpipes 28:19 Worst Conditions for Playing Bagpipes 30:03 Personal Anecdotes and Experiences 36:51 Storing Bagpipes: Tips and Tricks 39:44 The Role of Hygrometers in Bagpipe Maintenance 44:35 Challenges of Playing Bagpipes in Different Environments 47:53 Final Thoughts and Reflections…

Piper's Dojo Audio Experience

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449 - How To Start a Pipe Band (Dojo Conversations Episode 119) 40:56

5 weeks ago40:56

40:56

Ever thought about starting your own pipe band? Where would you even begin? This week, Andrew and Jim dive into the nitty-gritty of building a band from the ground up. Picking a name, sorting out uniforms, finding a practice space—it’s all on the table. Andrew shares some real-world advice on organizing rehearsals, setting up a beginner program, and making sure band dues actually cover costs. And let’s not forget the heart of any good band: community. Got a question or topic you'd like us to cover in a future episode? Leave a comment or email us: support@pipersdojo.com Here's what we cover this week: 00:00 – Morning greetings & intro 00:24 – What’s in a name? 00:55 – The first steps to starting a band 03:49 – Why education matters 08:38 – Finding a practice space 12:46 – Naming your band (yes, again—it's important!) 16:37 – Uniforms & kilts: what to consider 19:22 – The logistics struggle is real 20:35 – Drummers & their gear 23:16 – Band dues, gigs & keeping the lights on 25:40 – Beginner programs = future success 33:28 – Using Dojo U to level up 39:35 – Final thoughts…

Piper's Dojo Audio Experience

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448 - The 3-Step Formula for Mastering Steady Blowing (Dojo Conversations Episode 118) 27:14

6 weeks ago27:14

27:14

Ever been told to ‘blow tone’? What if that familiar advice is actually leading you astray? Of course, steadiness matters—but before you can maintain steady blowing, you need to know what you're aiming for. For pipers, that target is the sweet spot—the pressure that produces the best tonal quality. Without it, steadiness won’t help you sound better. In this episode, Andrew and Jim break down why tonal quality comes first, how to find your sweet spot, and why steady blowing naturally follows when you get it right. Got a question or topic you’d like us to cover in a future episode? Leave a comment or email us: support@pipersdojo.com Here’s what we discuss this week: 00:00 Introduction 02:49 Chatting Weather 03:04 The Trifecta Concept 03:37 Mastering the Steady Blowing Trifecta 05:28 Archery and Bagpipes: Drawing Parallels 07:21 Finding the Sweet Spot 14:01 Physical Steady Blowing Techniques 16:44 Mental Blowing Anomalies 23:30 Practical Tips and Conclusion…

Piper's Dojo Audio Experience

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447 - The Cheat Code to Becoming Great at Bagpipes (Dojo Conversations Episode 117) 41:16

7 weeks ago41:16

41:16

Is there a cheat code to becoming truly great at bagpipes? In this episode, Jim and Andrew conclude their Commandments series with insights on how to learn in the right order and the importance of balancing focused practice with fun ('dessert'). They discuss common mistakes in bagpipe learning, the significance of proper practice techniques, and the role of obsession in mastering skills. The conversation also touches on the pitfalls of overindulgence in enjoyable activities and emphasizes the need for a balanced approach to practicing. Finally, they reiterate the importance of recording oneself for continuous improvement. Got a topic you’d like us to cover in a future episode? Leave a comment or email us: pipersdojo@gmail.com Here’s what we cover this week: 00:00 Introduction and Episode Context 01:00 Wrapping Up the Commandments Series 01:44 Commandment 9: Learn in the Right Order 02:07 Examples of Putting the Cart Before the Horse 03:45 Bagpiping Specifics: The Dethrow 10:38 The Importance of Rhythmic Accuracy 18:37 Commandment 10: Have Dessert, But Not Too Much 23:19 Heavy D Throw: A Mixed Bag 23:49 Dessert Dilemma: Balancing Treats and Health 25:25 Piping and Practice: The Right Balance 30:35 The Cheat Code: Obsession 35:50 Turning Passion into Profession 39:21 Final Thoughts: Balancing Fun and Fundamentals…

Piper's Dojo Audio Experience

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446 - Is the Practice Chanter a "Real" Instrument? (Dojo Conversations Episode 116) 26:16

8 weeks ago26:16

26:16

Pipers start their journey on a practice chanter – but can you do more with a practice chanter than just… well, practice? This week, Jim and Andrew discuss practice chanters – should be seen as standalone instruments or just tools for learning the bagpipes? The conversation touches on competitive piping cultures in Scotland and North America, the introduction of practice chanter contests in CLASP, and debates the benefits and potential downsides of fancy chanters, friends' experiences, and the influence of stereotypes on the piping image. Join the debate on whether practice chanters deserve more respect! Got a topic you’d like us to cover in a future episode? Leave a comment or email us: support@pipersdojo.com Here’s what we cover this week: 00:00 Introduction and Catching Up 01:04 Discussing Practice Chanters 01:49 The ES Session Chanter Debate 06:27 Practice Chanter Competitions 15:00 Cultural Differences in Bagpiping 19:57 Personal Bagpiping Stories 23:32 Conclusion and Final Thoughts…

Piper's Dojo Audio Experience

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445 - Do You REALLY Need a Digital Tuner? (Dojo Conversations Episode 115) 1:05:15

9 weeks ago1:05:15

1:05:15

Do you rely solely on your digital tuner to get your pipes in tune? Digital bagpipe tuners have become as commonplace in the piping world as the smartphones they often operate on. But are they a necessity, or just a shiny distraction? This week, Andrew and Jim look at the pros and cons of digital bagpipe tuners, ignited by a listener's question about digital and analog tuners. Got a topic you’d like us to cover in future? Leave a comment or email us: support@pipersdojo.com. Here’s what we cover on this episode: 00:00 Introduction and Initial Reactions 01:53 Diving into the Topic: Bagpipe Tuners 04:02 Historical Anecdotes and Tuning Practices 06:18 The Role of Digital Tuners in Modern Piping 08:53 Developing a Good Ear for Tuning 16:54 Analogies and Deeper Insights into Tuning 31:05 The Perpetual State of Tuning 33:11 Struggling with Bagpipe Tuning 34:31 The Training Wheels Analogy 35:45 The Role of Digital Tuners 37:24 Learning to Tune by Ear 37:41 Top Bands and Tuning Practices 40:17 The Importance of Developing Your Ear 58:48 Practical Tips for Tuning 01:03:44 Final Thoughts on Tuning and Tuners…

Piper's Dojo Audio Experience

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444 - Why Learning Bagpipes Feels Harder Before It Gets Easier (Dojo Conversations Episode 114) 55:40

10 weeks ago55:40

55:40

Ever tried something new and thought, "Easy! I could do that"—only to fail spectacularly? That’s the hierarchy of competence in action. It’s the universal journey from complete ignorance to effortless mastery. And guess what? You’ve been through it more times than you can count. This week, Andrew and Jim break down the hierarchy of competence, explaining the four stages: unconscious incompetence, conscious incompetence, conscious competence, and unconscious competence. They stress the importance of moving beyond conscious competence to perform skills effortlessly, applying this concept to various aspects of bagpiping, such as learning new tunes and tuning drones. Got a topic you’d like addressed in a future episode? Leave a comment or email us: support@pipersdojo.com Here’s what we cover this week: 00:00 Old Injury Recap 00:45 The Intensity Equation Explained 02:13 Peer Pressure in Gym and Pipe Band 03:21 Understanding the Intensity Equation in Bagpiping 07:35 Commandment 8: Strive for Unconscious Competence 09:56 The Hierarchy of Competence 12:44 Learning New Skills and Overcoming Challenges 18:32 Bagpiping and Musical Mastery 26:55 Pursuing Personal Interests 27:25 From Conscious to Unconscious Competence 28:31 Angus McCall's Electronic Chanter 29:52 The Hierarchy of Competence 30:52 Learning New Tunes 34:06 Avoiding Demoralization 37:30 Memorization Techniques 48:30 Unconscious Competence in Action 53:51 Commandment 9 Preview…

Piper's Dojo Audio Experience

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443 - Our Top Hacks For Grade 5 Pipe Bands (Dojo Conversations Episode 113) 32:51

11 weeks ago32:51

32:51

Are lower-grade pipe bands missing out on easy wins by focusing on the wrong things? This week, Andrew and Jim chat through how lower grade pipe bands (Grade 4 and 5) can improve their sound with minimal effort. They start by dissecting a Reddit user’s advice, then dive into Andrew’s top observations as a competition judge and instructor for lower grade bands, breaking down the low-hanging fruit for bands to drastically improve their sound and performances – by reducing mistakes, tuning drones properly, and playing clean embellishments. Got a question you’d like covered in a future episode? Leave a comment or email us: support@pipersdojo.com Here’s what we cover this week: 00:00 Confession Time: Turning to Reddit for Inspiration 00:13 Reddit's Band Improvement Tips: An Overview 01:16 The Importance of Basics: Basketball Analogy 04:05 Breaking Down the Basics: Clean Starts and Stops 06:24 Andrew's Take: The Real Essentials for Band Improvement 12:24 Tuning the Drones: A Crucial Step 15:47 Identifying Individual Weaknesses in the Band 16:31 The Power of Individual Recitals 17:12 Overcoming Performance Anxiety 18:11 The Importance of Individual Competence 19:16 Avoiding Common Mistakes in Competitions 21:35 Clean Embellishments: A Must for Success 24:24 Addressing Crossing Noises 26:46 Final Thoughts and Key Takeaways…

Piper's Dojo Audio Experience

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442 - Why Subjective Feedback Is Confusing (And How to Decode It) (Dojo Conversations Episode 112) 38:43

12 weeks ago38:43

38:43

Ever been frustrated by vague, subjective feedback from a judge or teacher? Only things that can be measured can be improved. So how do you measure your progress? We need to find ways to get an objective, pass-or-fail result. This week, we’re diving into the sixth commandment in Andrew’s 11 Commandments of Mastery: You Shalt Practice Objectively (And Reject Subjectivity). We explore the difference between objective and subjective goals and why aspiring pipers should focus on measurable, objective criteria to improve their skills. We look at the pitfalls of practicing with vague, subjective goals and discuss the need for clear, pass-fail criteria if you want to improve. Got a topic you’d like covered on a future episode? Leave a comment or email us: support@pipersdojo.com Here’s what we cover this episode: 00:00 A Shattered Dinner Incident 00:45 The Nature of Objectivity 01:38 Philosophical Musings on Reality 02:09 Quantum Computing and Parallel Universes 03:37 Objectivity in Practice 04:51 Subjective vs Objective Goals in Practice 09:43 Breaking Down Objective Practice Elements 14:34 Colorblindness and Context Clues 17:23 Understanding Subjective Feedback in Music 17:48 The Challenge of Translating Subjective Terms 18:24 The Ego in Teaching and Judging 20:00 Objective Feedback for Beginners and Intermediates 21:16 Advanced Players and Subjective Mastery 24:01 Decoding Judging Sheets 28:10 The 11 Commandments of Mastery Course 31:27 Making Practice Fun and Effective 34:37 Objective Practice and Pass-Fail Criteria…

Piper's Dojo Audio Experience

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441 - How To Learn a Stack o’ Tunes (Dojo Conversations Episode 111) 58:22

13 weeks ago58:22

58:22

Have you ever had to learn a bunch of new tunes all at once? This week, Andrew and Jim talk through the best ways to tackle learning a huge stack of bagpipe tunes quickly – while still having fun. A sneak preview – some tips include playing all tunes as daily as possible in order of importance, trying NOT to memorize, and recording yourself to make sure you get it right rather than practicing it wrong. Rethinking traditional approaches to practice can lead to better performance and more fun and satisfaction along the way… Got a topic you’d like us to cover on a future episode? Leave a comment or send us an email: support@pipersdojo.com Here’s what we cover this week: 00:00 Introduction and New Year's Resolutions 00:25 The Challenge of Learning New Tunes 01:37 Strategies for Efficient Practice 02:53 Personal Experiences and Insights 04:54 Five Principles for Learning Tunes 06:19 Tip 1: Play Through All Tunes Daily 17:18 Tip 2: Never Play By Yourself 29:19 The Power of Subconscious Learning 29:55 The Miraculous Process of Memorization 30:41 Daily Practice and Improvement 31:11 Handling Missed Practice Days 31:35 The Importance of Enjoying the Process 36:26 Prioritizing Tunes and Practice 41:41 Learning Tunes the Right Way 41:57 Vertical and Horizontal Learning Methods 47:32 The Role of Fun in Learning 55:29 Final Thoughts and Encouragement…

Piper's Dojo Audio Experience

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440 - How Often Should You Learn a New Tune? (Dojo Conversations Ep 110) 48:44

14 weeks ago48:44

48:44

When was the last time you learned a new tune? This week, Andrew and Jim are diving into “constant variance” - that is, constantly and consistently trying new things, whether that’s trying to play new music regularly, changing practice routines, environments, and other approaches to become a better musician. It has so many benefits, including making you a better, more well-rounded musician, not just a “competent” bagpiper or drummer. Got a topic you’d like us to discuss on a future episode? Leave a comment or email us: support@pipersdojo.com Here’s what we cover this week: 00:00 Morning Greetings 00:23 The Importance of Variance in Practice 01:24 CrossFit and Fitness Analogies 02:40 Musical Flexibility and Mastery 08:14 The Value of Learning New Tunes 18:10 Specialization vs. Generalization in Bagpiping 25:38 Exploring Beyond the Familiar 26:42 The Importance of Diverse Learning 26:58 Historical Perspectives on Literacy 28:41 Learning Through Variance 34:38 Practical Tips for Bagpipe Practice 45:14 The Value of Feedback and Adaptation 47:49 Final Thoughts on Variance…

Piper's Dojo Audio Experience

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439 - How To Beat The Danger of Distractions (Dojo Conversations Episode 109) 1:00:14

15 weeks ago1:00:14

1:00:14

Ever tried to multitask? Putting aside the fact that multitasking is a myth (more on that in the episode...) did you end up doing any of those many things *well*? Multitasking doesn’t work, especially if you’re trying to master a musical instrument. As soon as you allow a single distraction into a practice session, you've cheated yourself out of precious time it will take you to return to a singular focus – and on the flip side, if you can zero in with no distractions, you'll be stunned at how much faster you progress... This week, Andrew and Jim tackle the myth of multitasking, and the importance of creating dedicated practice spaces, minimizing distractions, and adopting short, highly-focused practice sessions. Got a topic you'd like us to cover on a future episode? Leave a comment or email us: support@pipersdojo.com. Here's what we cover this week: 00:00 Welcome to 2025: A Lighthearted Start 01:08 The Enigma of Time 02:03 Sam Kuypers and the Mystery of Time 02:33 The Base 12 Counting System 05:39 The Art of Multitasking 06:40 The Struggles of Focus 07:31 The Commandment: Reject Multitasking 09:02 The Reality of Multitasking 13:31 The Importance of Focused Practice 17:55 Managing Distractions 23:37 The Challenge of Task Lists 26:54 The Power of Single-Tasking 31:25 Breaking the Phone Habit 31:37 Morning Routines and Struggles 33:41 Dealing with Notifications 35:01 The Importance of a Distraction-Free Zone 37:57 Dedicated Spaces for Bagpiping 44:47 Effective Practice Techniques 48:50 Focusing on One Thing 50:18 Building Up Practice Sessions 55:18 Simplifying Your Music 57:00 Actionable Steps to Minimize Distractions…

Piper's Dojo Audio Experience

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438 - The Game-Changing Power of Recording Your Practice (Dojo Conversations Ep 108) 39:35

16 weeks ago39:35

39:35

Do you avoid recording yourself? Get nervous at the idea of people listening to you play? Although it can be nerve wracking, recording yourself for analysis is a must if you want to improve your playing. This week, Andrew and Jim and talking about all things recording – why to do it, our up to date recommendations on how to do it and what equipment to use, and how to analyze recordings for musical improvement. Here's what we cover on this week's show: 00:00 A Pleasant Encounter 00:46 The Charm of Chivalry 01:16 Recording Challenges for Musicians 07:06 The Importance of Self-Recording 11:48 Advanced Recording Techniques 13:53 The Superiority of Single-Source Recording 19:27 The Importance of Stereo Microphones 21:25 Golden Rules of Recording 24:09 Ideal Recording Locations 27:30 DIY Recording Tips and Tools 30:05 Recording for Self-Improvement 36:36 The One Take Rule…

Piper's Dojo Audio Experience

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437 - Why Simple Tools Build Better Pipers (Dojo Conversations Ep 107) 1:07:52

17 weeks ago1:07:52

1:07:52

Would you want to learn to drive in a Formula 1 race-car, or learn to fly an airplane in a Boeing 787 Dreamliner? Even if it sounds really cool, in reality, high-end sophisticated tools are designed for masters of their craft, and not at all suited for beginners or intermediates. Yet, more often than not, a piping beginner has a bagpipe setup that is radically too complex, which creates many more problems for them than it solves. This week, Andrew and Jim talk through why simple tools are so important when you’re learning to play the bagpipes. Starting with a basic setup helps you become familiar with essential challenges, avoiding unnecessary gadgetry that can complicate the learning process. They discuss the advantages and disadvantages of various bagpipe gadgets such as tone enhancers, moisture control systems, and water traps, highlighting the benefits of a minimalist approach for beginners. Here’s what we cover this time: 00:00 Introduction and Technical Glitches 00:55 The Devil's in the Details 01:44 Head in the Clouds, Feet in the Dirt 03:08 The Gadget Dilemma 04:41 Moisture Control Systems Explained 12:31 Commandments for Pipers 13:40 Learning with Simple Tools 33:46 Understanding Water Traps 34:11 Condensation Issues in Bagpipes 34:46 The Subtle Help of Water Traps 35:15 Ice Baths and Bagpipe Gadgets 37:31 The Importance of Simple Tools 39:25 Complexity vs. Simplicity in Bagpipes 40:18 The Karate Kid Analogy 41:23 Challenges of Learning Bagpipes 42:16 Tone Enhancers and Other Gadgets 43:36 The Case for Simple Setups 50:32 The Irony of Complex Bagpipes 53:56 Pharmaceutical Ads and Bagpipe Gadgets 57:18 Final Thoughts on Bagpipe Gadgets 01:02:35 Monty Python and Wrapping Up…

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436 - Another Year In The Bag (Dojo Conversations Ep 106) 46:08

18 weeks ago46:08

46:08

Happy New Year – almost! This week Andrew and Jim revisit some of the highs, the lows, and everything in between – including Jim's hair, which is basically a third host at this point – as we reflect on the pod's progress so far... and some of the exciting plans (and guests) we're cooking up for 2025! Here's what we cover in (a LOT) of detail this week: 00:00 Happy New Year Reflections 00:20 Reviewing Past Episodes 02:24 Episode 55: Can Rest Be Productive? 03:34 Episode 56: How to Simplify Tunes 05:39 Episode 57: What's the Real Cost of Bagpiping? 07:38 Episode 58: Freeing Up Your Piping Bandwidth 10:11 Episode 59: Do You Own or Rent Your Piping Skills? 12:31 Episode 60: The Tone Zone 15:21 Episode 61: Getting the Most Out of Band Practice 15:47 Episode 62: The Four Layers of Drone Reed Sound 18:09 Episode 63: Constructing a Winning Medley 20:06 Episode 64: Listener Q&A Mailbag 20:19 Episode 65: Set It and Forget It Method 20:55 Episode 66: Finding Your Perfect Drone Reed Setup 21:55 Episode 67: Has Bagpipe Pitch Gone Too High? 22:25 Episode 68: The Ultimate Secret to Being a Better Bagpiper or Drummer 22:51 Episode 69: The Sticky Truth About Chanter Tape 23:29 Episode 70: Play It Like You're Saying It 23:33 Episode 71: Is Bass Drone Tuning Hard? 24:39 Episode 72: Ten Clues Your Pipe Major Sucks 25:58 Finding Your Ideal Chanter Reed Strength 26:17 Reddit Q&A: Hardest Tune Ever Written 26:54 Imagining a World Without Bagpipes 27:24 The Importance of Embellishments in Bagpipe Playing 29:59 Competing in Band and Solo Competitions 30:33 The Bagpiping AI Revolution 30:53 Portent Parade Principles 32:55 Reviving Stagnant Tunes 33:58 A North American Piper's Guide to Visiting Scotland 35:56 More Reddit Questions and Bagpipe Topics 36:40 The Intensity Equation and Finding Bagpipe Freedom 37:35 How to Embrace Failure in Bagpiping 37:48 Pipers of the Caribbean: A Bagpiping Cruise 38:19 Balancing Perfection and Fun in Bagpiping 38:35 The Formula to Beat the Pipe Band Struggle 39:26 Building Stamina and Hot Takes on Bagpipe Reddit Questions 40:20 The Eleven Commandments of Bagpiping 40:44 Writing the First Ever Podcast March 41:06 Reflecting on 100 Episodes and the Power of Immersion 42:08 Secrets of Ensemble Judges 42:54 Daily Action and Upcoming Episodes 44:46 Looking Forward to More Guests and Episodes…

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435 - St Blow's Blessings for the Season(ing) (Dojo Conversations Ep 105) 21:22

19 weeks ago21:22

21:22

In this festive episode, Jim and Andrew present another AI-penned Christmas poem: 'A Piper's Night Before Christmas,' featuring Jolly St Blow, the mythical Highland Loon, and an oddly defensive AI author... Enjoy, happy piping and Merry Christmas from all of us here at the Piper's Dojo! Here's what to expect in today's episode: 00:00 Holiday Greetings and Reflections 02:02 AI-Generated Christmas Special 03:19 Piper's Night Before Christmas 09:11 Analyzing the Poem 11:55 Saint Blow and the Highland Loon 18:26 Toonie Tradition and School Memories 19:49 Concluding Thoughts and Thanks…

Piper's Dojo Audio Experience

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434 - Do You Need A Second Instrument for Solo Contests? (Dojo Conversations Ep 104) 23:02

20 weeks ago23:02

23:02

The mailbag has arrived again! This week, Will asks: “…I want to build a set of pipes, specifically for solo competition… what should I look at for a purpose built solo bagpipe?” Andrew and Jim chat through whether you need multiple sets of pipes on the boil for band vs solo playing, whether bore sizes matter in bagpipes, and the importance of simplicity, consistent maintenance, and focusing on the quality of your playing (aka ‘slaying') over the intricacies of your setup. 00:00 Introduction to Opals and Bononos 00:44 Quasi Mailbag: Will's Question on Bagpipes 02:18 The Challenges of Maintaining Multiple Bagpipes 04:10 Advice on Setting Up a Solo Bagpipe 07:16 The Importance of Simplicity in Bagpipe Setup 08:54 Debating Bore Size and Its Impact 12:58 The SLAY Principle for Bagpipe Success 21:04 Concluding Thoughts on Bagpipe Setup…

Piper's Dojo Audio Experience

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433 - Daily Action Will Transform Your Piping (Dojo Conversations Episode 103) 45:01

21 weeks ago45:01

45:01

Is it better to do a little bit every day… or a massive catch up session every once in a while? If you’ve ever tried to get fit, go on a diet, or even keep your teeth clean… it should probably go without saying that daily consistent action prevails over massive infrequent action, every single time. This week, Andrew and Jim explore the importance of maintaining consistent daily habits with your piping. They discuss their personal routines, the challenges faced by pipers, and how integrating a 'one tune a day' habit can lead to significant improvement without overwhelming your daily life. Got a topic you’d like us to cover in a future episode? Leave a comment or email us: support@pipersdojo.com ! Here’s what we cover this week: 00:00 Morning Routine and Teeth Brushing Debate 01:13 The Importance of Daily Habits 04:25 Retainers and Orthodontic Stories 06:49 Daily Actions vs. Massive Actions 11:17 Maintaining Musical Skills 16:25 The 100 Day Challenge 21:33 Morning Bagpipe Routine 21:56 Alternative Practices on Vacation 22:24 Importance of Daily Action 23:22 The Joy of Playing Daily 24:50 Challenges and Solutions for Pipers 26:24 Balancing Practice with Life 28:00 Maintaining Your Instrument 29:44 Consistency Over Perfection 32:59 Daily Action vs. Massive Action 36:58 The 11 Commandments of Piping 41:12 Final Thoughts on Daily Action…

Piper's Dojo Audio Experience

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432 - Top Secrets of Ensemble Judges (Dojo Conversations Episode 102) 1:05:42

22 weeks ago1:05:42

1:05:42

Do pipers or drummers make better ensemble judges? This week, Ed Best is back, joining Andrew and Jim to reveal all the secrets about the role of ensemble judges in pipe band competitions. The cover the differences in perspectives between piping and drumming judges, why it’s important to understand both types of instruments, how judges are trained, and challenges they face. They also look at how tune choices impact a band’s overall sound and performance, why practicing and refining judging skills is vital, and how thoughtful musical decisions can contribute to a stronger ensemble performance. Got a question you’d like us to cover on a future episode? Leave a comment or email us: support@pipersdojo.com! Here’s what we cover this week: 00:00 Introduction to Etymology 00:55 Defining Ensemble 01:32 Role of Ensemble Judges 02:30 Drummers vs Pipers: Judging Perspectives 05:53 Training and Preparation for Ensemble Judging 10:11 Challenges in Ensemble Judging 15:44 Judging Criteria and Considerations 29:21 The Importance of Rehearsal and Coordination 34:39 Starting a Conversation: The Rule from High School Band Days 35:31 Evaluating Ideas: The Importance of 'Why' 38:41 Killing Your Darlings: Lessons from Filmmaking 46:51 Ensemble Mindset: The Bigger Picture 47:44 Judging Criteria: Tightness, Style, Sound, and Composition 53:44 The Role of Composition in Performance 57:33 Balancing Complexity and Simplicity 01:01:51 Impactful Simplicity: Less Can Be More 01:04:19 Wrapping Up: Final Thoughts and Takeaways…

Piper's Dojo Audio Experience

1
431 - The Power of Immersion (Dojo Conversations Episode 101) 34:21

23 weeks ago34:21

34:21

What is the single greatest correlate to success in any pursuit? This week, Andrew and Jim are chatting all things immersion (including a detour into Adam Sandler movies) and how learning by doing and maintaining an authentic passion can significantly improve your skills. They also touch on the significance of foundational work like instrument maintenance and how it builds leverage for higher-level skills. Got a question or topic for a future episode? Leave a comment or email us: support@pipersdojo.com. Here's what we cover this week: 00:00 Nostalgic Movie Memories 01:48 Dreams of a Jim Carrey Biopic 02:14 The Adam Sandler Effect 05:38 Memorizing Movies vs. Bagpipe Tunes 15:34 The Importance of Immersion 24:39 Balancing Practice and Enjoyment 30:27 Commandment One: Immersion is Key…

Piper's Dojo Audio Experience

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430 - Should You Circular Breathe As A Bagpiper? (Dojo Conversations Episode 100) 40:17

24 weeks ago40:17

40:17

It's Episode 100 of the Dojo Conversations Podcast! Well, kind of... Anyway, to celebrate 100 continuous weeks of streaming directly into your ears, Andrew's agreed to suffer through all the topics he doesn't want to talk about, but that Jim's been saving up for an occasion just like this... tune in this week to learn more about the nuances of circular breathing, whether bagpipers can use vibrato, using 'non-traditional' notes, and how bagpipe music has evolved over time. Got a topic you'd like us to cover in a future episode? Leave a comment or email us: support@pipersdojo.com! Here's what we cover this week: 00:00 Celebrating 100 Episodes 01:43 The Great Circular Breathing Debate 03:54 Breathing Techniques for Beginners 12:08 Exploring Vibrato on the Practice Chanter 19:38 Bagpipe Techniques: Finding the Balance 19:57 The Rise and Fall of C Natural and G Sharp 20:55 Challenges of Tuning and Control 22:29 Opera and Bagpipes: A Vibrato Comparison 23:50 The Obsession with Technique 25:35 Learning and Teaching Bagpipes 30:07 The Evolution of Bagpipe Music 32:13 Experimentation and Innovation in Bagpiping 33:46 Reflections on Technique and Creativity 37:41 Concluding Thoughts: The Role of Art and Risk…

Piper's Dojo Audio Experience

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429 - How to Write a Bagpipe Tune (Dojo Conversations Episode 99) 46:29

25 weeks ago46:29

46:29

Have you ever wanted to write a bagpipe tune? This week, Andrew and Jim show you how to do it by composing a brand new tune live on air! They discuss the process of composing music, exploring different techniques and ideas such as using a chord progression, incorporating motifs, and the importance of a good musical idea. They share insights on using notation software like MuseScore, the significance of rhythm and melody, and even touch on the importance of repetition and variation in music. If you’ve ever wanted to write tunes of your own, this is an episode not to miss! Got a topic you’d like us to cover on a future episode? Leave a comment or send us an email: support@pipersdojo.com. Here’s what we cover this week: 00:00 Introduction and Banter 00:33 Live Tune Composition 00:48 Choosing the Genre and Tools 01:09 Starting with a Musical Idea 02:39 Chord Progressions and Motifs 06:49 Creating the Groove 16:36 Building the Melody 22:00 Exploring Rhythmic Ideas 22:21 Crafting the Fourth Bar 23:31 Using Repetition and Variation 24:36 Adjusting Melodies and Chords 25:40 Finalizing the First Line 28:25 Composing Techniques and Tips 34:29 The Role of Chord Progressions 35:22 Improvisation and Creativity 38:38 Evolution of Musical Ideas 40:03 The Impact of Iconic Tunes 43:20 The Art of Movie Scoring 45:11 Inviting Audience Participation…

Piper's Dojo Audio Experience

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428 - 11 Simple Habits That Will Overhaul Your Piping (Dojo Conversations Episode 98) 51:21

26 weeks ago51:21

51:21

What if 11 small changes could make an enormous difference to your piping progress? This week, Andrew and Jim dive into the 11 commandments of mastery – Andrew’s blueprint of habits that lead to great bagpiping, but are applicable to all mastery-oriented pursuits. They look at the importance of mastering fundamentals to achieve creative freedom, common pitfalls that learners face, and why a growth mindset is essential to any form of progression. Here’s what we cover in this episode: 00:00 Setting Up the Scene 00:53 The 11 Commandments of Bagpiping 01:11 Universal Concepts in Mastery 02:05 Disagreements in the Bagpipe World 04:20 Finding Reliable Advice 05:29 First Principles and Growth Mindset 12:00 Parenting and Teaching Analogies 21:13 Empowering Through Fundamentals 24:14 Discovering the Power of Chords 24:41 Applying Chord Theory to Bagpipes 26:01 The Trap of Linear Learning in Bagpiping 27:36 The Role of Fun in Learning 28:22 Photography and Bagpiping: A Creative Parallel 31:32 The Golden Rule of Creative Freedom 34:28 Specialization vs. Generalism in Bagpiping 40:30 The Danger of Goal-Oriented Mindsets 42:47 Overcoming Common Pitfalls in Bagpiping 48:18 Introducing the 11 Commandments of Mastery…

Piper's Dojo Audio Experience

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427 - Are Drummers Just Different? With Ed Best (Dojo Conversations Episode 97) 43:37

27 weeks ago43:37

43:37

Is Scottish snare drumming really that different from other kinds of drumming... or from piping? This week, prolific drummer, judge and tutor Ed Best once again drops in to chat all things snare drumming with Andrew and Jim, covering whether rhythm is different between piping and drumming, how tempo affects drummers, why pipers and drummers should both learn each others’ parts, and how to get a better ensemble in your pipe band. Got a question or topic you’d like us to cover in a future episode? Leave a comment or email us: support@pipersdojo.com Here’s what we cover this week: 00:00 Welcome to the Ed Best and Jim Show! 00:39 Bagpipes and Snare Drums: A Unique Musical Relationship 01:18 Transferring Skills Between Musical Styles 03:15 The Tool Belt Analogy for Musical Techniques 04:22 Communication Challenges in Pipe Bands 08:15 Understanding DCI and Its Influence 09:45 The Rhythm Problem in Bagpiping 16:21 The Importance of Communication in Ensemble Playing 22:10 Communication Between Pipers and Drummers 23:12 Tempo and Its Impact on Performance 24:28 Challenges in Maintaining Rhythmic Control 26:30 The Importance of Consistency in Tempo 27:41 Understanding Drum Scores and Their Role 33:15 The Role of Communication in Band Rehearsals 39:53 The Importance of Ensemble Judging 42:17 Concluding Thoughts and Reflections…

Piper's Dojo Audio Experience

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426 - Hot Cakes! (Hot Takes on Bagpipe Reddit Questions): (Dojo Conversations Episode 96) 40:48

28 weeks ago40:48

40:48

Anyone for some hot cakes?! Jim’s been diving into the bagpipe forums on Reddit again, so this week, he and Andrew offer advice to solve a bunch of bugbears bothering bagpipers from across the web, including: • How to get bandmates to show up to practice • Better ways to improve at sight-reading • How to be more welcoming to new band members • Improving stamina and recovering after a hiatus from piping • What’s been going on in the piping world for the last 15 years or so, in a nutshell! • Nicole Kidman, for some reason… Got a question you want answered on a future pod? Leave a comment or email us: support@pipersdojo.com! Here’s what we covered this week: 00:00 Cool T-Shirt Designs 01:51 Hot Takes for Hot Cakes 02:25 Solving Attendance Issues in Bands 08:18 Learning to Read Sheet Music for Bagpipes 19:10 Joining a New Pipe Band 20:14 Navigating Band Dynamics 20:33 Jumping In Without Making Waves 21:25 Earning Trust in Top Bands 22:16 Joining New Groups: A Universal Challenge 24:26 Tips for Maintaining Stamina Without Pipes 26:14 Returning to Highland Piping After 15 Years 26:51 The Evolution of Bagpipe Music 28:38 Challenges in the Modern Music Landscape 32:24 The Bandcamp Dilemma 37:38 The Allure of Fictional Drama 40:03 Conclusion and Sign-Off…

Piper's Dojo Audio Experience

1
425 - The Best Way To Build Stamina (Dojo Conversations Episode 95) 46:02

29 weeks ago46:02