Best Bagpipe
for Beginners
-
Overall: 10/10
-
Best Feature: Includes a set of drone reeds
-
TedScore™: 10/10
Best Value
Bagpipe
-
Overall: 9/10
-
Best Feature: Made of high-quality rosewood and nickel-plated brass
-
TedScore™: 9/10
Best Professional
Bagpipe
-
Overall: 10/10
-
Best Feature: Made of high-quality African blackwood
-
TedScore™: 10/10
If you’re curious about bagpipes and wondering, “How much do bagpipes cost?” I’m here to help you figure it out!
Whether you’re drawn to the haunting sounds of the Scottish Highlands or the lively tunes of a parade, you’ll find that the price of this iconic instrument can vary widely, just like the melodies it produces.
You can get a bare plastic set for around $200, while sets crafted with African blackwood and fancy decorations cost over $6,000. In this unique world of reeds, drones, and chanters, there’s a set for every budget and ambition, and I’m here to walk you through it.
So, grab your sporran, and let’s dive into the details together – it will be fantastic!
Cost Factors of Bagpipes
Types of Bagpipes
Practice Chanters
You may want to start with a practice chanter if you’re a beginner. These small, handheld instruments allow you to practice finger placement and basic melodies. Practice chanters are typically plastic and cost between $/£20 and $/£60.
This practice chanter is made of durable polypenco material and is a popular choice for beginners. It has a long size that allows for a comfortable grip and produces a clear and consistent sound
Gibson Long Polypenco Practice Chanter
FEATURES:
- Made of durable polypenco material
- Produces a clear and consistent sound
- Long length for authentic feel
- Includes reed for immediate use
Gibson Long Polypenco Practice Chanter
- Affordable price
- Lightweight and portable
- Allows for a comfortable grip
- Allows for a comfortable grip
- Reed's quality may be poor
- Polypenco material may not have same sound quality as wood
When you click ‘Check Price’, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Sweetwater for the US, and Thomann and Gear4Music for the UK & Europe.
They are the largest music retailers, with excellent customer service, competitive prices, really fast shipping, and the longest guarantees.
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
McCallum Practice Chanter
FEATURES:
- Made by McCallum, a well-known bagpipe manufacturer
-Available in both wood and polypenco material options
- Comes with a high-quality reed included
McCallum Practice Chanter
- Available in various sizes and materials to suit different playing styles and preferences
- Produces a clear and authentic sound
- Offers excellent playability and responsiveness
- Higher price point compared to other practice chanters
- Heavier weight may not be as portable as other options
When you click ‘Check Price’, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Sweetwater for the US, and Thomann and Gear4Music for the UK & Europe.
They are the largest music retailers, with excellent customer service, competitive prices, really fast shipping, and the longest guarantees.
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
Plastic Bagpipes
This practice chanter is made of durable polypenco material and is a popular choice for beginners. It has a long size that allows for a comfortable grip and produces a clear and consistent sound
McWilliams Plastic Bagpipes
FEATURES:
- Made of durable plastic material
- Includes a chanter, drones, and blowpipe
- Available in a range of colours and finishes
McWilliams Plastic Bagpipes
- Affordable price point compared to traditional wooden bagpipes.
- Compact and easy to transport, making them an excellent option for travelling musicians
- Designed to produce a rich and full-bodied sound
- May not be as visually appealing as traditional wooden bagpipes
When you click ‘Check Price’, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Sweetwater for the US, and Thomann and Gear4Music for the UK & Europe.
They are the largest music retailers, with excellent customer service, competitive prices, really fast shipping, and the longest guarantees.
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
R.G. Hardie Plastic Bagpipes
FEATURES:
- Made of high-quality Delrin plastic material
- Includes a chanter, drones, and blowpipe
- Available in a range of colours and finishes
R.G. Hardie Plastic Bagpipes
- Durable and resistant to changes in temperature and humidity
- Easy to clean and maintain
- Plastic material may not have the same sound quality as wooden bagpipes
When you click ‘Check Price’, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Sweetwater for the US, and Thomann and Gear4Music for the UK & Europe.
They are the largest music retailers, with excellent customer service, competitive prices, really fast shipping, and the longest guarantees.
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
Rosewood Bagpipes
Rosewood bagpipes are a popular choice among intermediate players. They produce a warm, mellow sound and are relatively affordable, ranging from $/£300 to $/£800.
TC Scottish Great Highland Bagpipe Rosewood Full Set
FEATURES:
- Made of high-quality rosewood and nickel-plated brass
- Includes a full set of bagpipes, including chanter, drones, blowpipe, and carrying case
- Handcrafted by skilled artisans
TC Scottish Great Highland Bagpipe Rosewood Full Set
- Produces a rich and full sound
- Made of high-quality materials that are built to last and withstand frequent use
- Slightly more expensive compared to other highland bagpipes
When you click ‘Check Price’, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Sweetwater for the US, and Thomann and Gear4Music for the UK & Europe.
They are the largest music retailers, with excellent customer service, competitive prices, really fast shipping, and the longest guarantees.
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
Scottish Bagpipe Rosewood Royal Stewart Tartan, Black
FEATURES:
- Made of high-quality rosewood and nickel-plated brass
- Features a Royal Stewart Tartan bag cover and black finish
- Comes with a full set of bagpipes, including chanter, drones, blowpipe, and carrying case
Scottish Bagpipe Rosewood Royal Stewart Tartan, Black
- The unique tartan bag cover and black finish make for a visually stunning instrument
- The tartan bag cover is removable for customization and personalization
- Higher price range
- Requires regular maintenance and conditioning
When you click ‘Check Price’, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Sweetwater for the US, and Thomann and Gear4Music for the UK & Europe.
They are the largest music retailers, with excellent customer service, competitive prices, really fast shipping, and the longest guarantees.
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
Blackwood Bagpipes
Blackwood bagpipes are considered the gold standard in the bagpipe world. They produce a rich, full-bodied sound and are highly sought after by professional players. However, they are also the most expensive, ranging from $/£1,200 to £$/6,000 or more.
McCallum AB2 Deluxe Bagpipes
FEATURES:
- Made of high-quality African blackwood and nickel-plated brass
- Features a sleek and modern design with engraved ferrules and slides
- Comes with a full set of bagpipes, including chanter, drones, blowpipe, and carrying case
McCallum AB2 Deluxe Bagpipes
- Offers excellent tonal qualities
- The high-quality nickel-plated brass fittings are durable and resistant to tarnishing
- High price point may not be for beginner or casual players
When you click ‘Check Price’, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Sweetwater for the US, and Thomann and Gear4Music for the UK & Europe.
They are the largest music retailers, with excellent customer service, competitive prices, really fast shipping, and the longest guarantees.
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
Wallace Classic Bagpipes
FEATURES:
- A classic three-section design adds to the traditional look and sound of the instrument
- Made of high-quality African blackwood
- Comes with a full set of bagpipes, including chanter, drones, blowpipe, and carrying case
Wallace Classic Bagpipes
- The classic design is timeless and elegant
- The African blackwood material improves tonal quality and resonance
- Text
- May be too expensive for student and casual players
When you click ‘Check Price’, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Sweetwater for the US, and Thomann and Gear4Music for the UK & Europe.
They are the largest music retailers, with excellent customer service, competitive prices, really fast shipping, and the longest guarantees.
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
Uilleann Pipes
Uilleann pipes are the national bagpipe of Ireland and have a unique sound that sets them apart from other bagpipes. They are also more complex to play and require a higher skill level. The cost of Uilleann pipes ranges from \$/£1,500 to \$/£6,000.
McNeela Half Set Uilleann Pipes
FEATURES:
- Beginner-friendly half set of Uilleann pipes made in Ireland
- Made of African blackwood and brass
- Features a bellows-driven bag and a chanter that is tuned in the key of D
- Comes with a carrying case and a set of reeds
McNeela Half Set Uilleann Pipes
- Produces unique and beautiful sound
- Half set design is affordable and accessible
- Made of high-quality materials
- Bellows system allows for continuous playing
- The bellows system may take some getting used to for players accustomed to other types of bagpipes
When you click ‘Check Price’, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Sweetwater for the US, and Thomann and Gear4Music for the UK & Europe.
They are the largest music retailers, with excellent customer service, competitive prices, really fast shipping, and the longest guarantees.
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
Bagpipe Maintenance and Additional Costs
When you purchase a bagpipe, it’s important to remember that there are additional costs beyond the initial purchase price.
One of the most important things to consider is maintenance. Proper maintenance is essential to keep your bagpipe in good condition and ensure it continues producing good quality pipes sound.
In addition to maintenance costs, you may need to purchase additional items, such as a mouthpiece or filter.
Tuning your bagpipe is also an essential part of maintenance. This can be done by a knowledgeable piper or by using a tuning device. It’s essential to keep your bagpipe in tune to ensure that it produces quality sound.
How Much Does A Bagpipe Cost: Final Thoughts
Summary
As I’ve explored the world of bagpipes, I’ve discovered various prices. You can find a functional set for as little as $300 or splurge on exquisite Blackwood or silver treasures for over $7,000.
When considering the cost of bagpipes, it’s not just about the sounds they produce; it’s also about the craftsmanship and heritage each set represents. Whether it’s affordable plastic practice pipes or opulent Irish Uilleann pipes, there’s a price to match every passion and budget.
Here’s a quick breakdown:
- Starter Bagpipes: Around $300
- Plastic Bagpipes: Priced between $200 and $500
- Premium Blackwood Bagpipes: Range from $2,000 to over $6,000
- Uilleann Pipes: Priced from $1,500 to $7,000
Just remember, regular maintenance is key to keeping your bagpipe in top shape over time. So, think about your budget and needs, and don’t be afraid to ask for advice from fellow musicians or experts in the field. Happy piping!
Before you go…
If you’re having trouble choosing the best bagpipe for beginners, no worries!
In this next post, we’ll explore some of the best bagpipes for beginners, considering affordability, ease of use, and overall quality.
Check this out: Bagpipes For Beginners
interesting read, especially the parts about the different bagpipe materials like blackwood and rosewood. never knew there was that much variety. makes me wonder how each type affects the sound and playability. gotta say, robert emery did a solid job breaking it down. anyone got thoughts on how these materials hold up over time?
Well I didn’t write the article Zack, but thanks for supporting Ted’s List anyway!
I found the section on Uilleann Pipes in Robert Emery’s article particularly fascinating. Given my Irish heritage, I’ve always wanted to connect more deeply with traditional Irish music, and Uilleann pipes seem like a unique instrument to learn. I’m curious, though, about how different they are from the more common types of bagpipes most people are familiar with. Is the learning curve steep for beginners, especially those of us who don’t have much experience with wind instruments? Also, how does their sound compare to that of Highland bagpipes?
Liam, it’s great to hear about your interest in Uilleann pipes! They do have a gentler, more melodic tone compared to the louder, more piercing sound of Highland pipes. As for the learning curve, it’s definitely there, but with passion and patience, it’s absolutely manageable. Connecting with your heritage through music is a beautiful journey. Wishing you the best on your musical adventures!