477 - Could Singing Be the Secret to Great Piping? (Dojo U Q&A Session)

Piper's Dojo Audio Experience

What if learning piobaireachd could feel as natural as singing it?

This week, Andrew and Carl dive deep into one of the most expressive and mysterious corners of piping: piobaireachd singing – and the fascinating system behind it, Nether Lorn Canntaireachd.

They explore where it came from, how it works, and whether you really need to learn it to play great music. Along the way, they share practical advice for learners, uncover handy resources and archives, and show how singing can transform your understanding of a tune’s structure and emotion.

The conversation also branches into interactive tune demos (including “Thunderstruck” and “Steam Train”), band medley creativity, and even a few hot takes on hemp, wax, and bagpipe maintenance.

You’ll hear how the Dojo team approaches rhythm, simplicity, and musical fundamentals – all wrapped up in the usual mix of humor, deep insight, and Friday banter.

🎶 Join the conversation and explore interactive resources at pipersdojo.com!

Here’s what we cover this week:

• 00:00 – Intro & Piobaireachd Singing Class?
• 01:05 – The Role of Singing in Piobaireachd
• 02:30 – Nether Lorn Canntaireachd: History & Use
• 04:15 – Is Learning Canntaireachd Necessary?
• 06:00 – Practical Tips for Learning Tunes
• 08:00 – Resources for Canntaireachd Study
• 10:00 – Using Archives & Practice Advice
• 12:00 – Interactive Tunes & Community Requests
• 14:00 – Thunderstruck & Steam Train Interactive Demo
• 17:00 – Black vs. Yellow Waxed Hemp: Is There a Difference?
• 19:00 – Cobbler’s Wax & Bagpipe Maintenance
• 21:00 – Rhythm Class Update & Why It Matters
• 23:00 – Behind the Scenes: The Dream Valley Medley
• 26:00 – What Makes a Great Band Medley?
• 29:00 – Balancing Judges, Audience & Band Enjoyment
• 32:00 – COVID-Era Band Videos & Tech Challenges
• 34:00 – Pentatonic Tunes & Musical Fundamentals
• 36:00 – The Power of Simplicity in Music
• 38:00 – Closing Thoughts & What’s Coming Next