History of Bagpipes

The word ‘bagpipes’ immediately conjures up the image of the majestic Scottish highlands and soul-stirring Celtic tunes being played by an army of bagpipers. Bagpipes are integral to Scottish cultural heritage. Their origins, however, have been traced back to the Middle East. The history of bagpipes is indeed an intriguing one. Though the Scots have a monopoly over the instrument, the bagpipe is played in many different parts of the world and is referred to by various names.

According to the Oxford History of Music, the first bagpipe was dated to 1000 B.C. and found on a Hittite slab at Eyuk. The common notion that exists within the larger population is, that it was the Romans who introduced the bagpipes to the Scottish. A number of sources state that the Roman Emperor Nero played the bagpipe with his image even engraved in coins. When the instrument arrived in Scotland, it quickly became a part of the country’s way of life and culture. There are many exciting folklores woven around the pipes and the piper men. Historical records show that any event or celebration would be incomplete without bagpiping. Church services too would either commence or conclude with a piping performance. As time evolved, so did the bagpipes in the British Isles. Many different types of bagpipes and piping came into existence. The use of bagpipes to boost the morale of the Scottish soldiers and Navy men in war, for instance, is reflective of the passion with which the Scots have appropriated the instrument into their culture. Besides the Scottish Highland Bagpipes, the Spanish Galicia and the French Musette are well-known for their invigorating tunes and haunting music.

There is no denying the hazy history of the bagpipes but despite that, the Scottish Highland Bagpipes continue to be the most recognizable and popular bagpipes across the globe.

Read More about Tips for Hiring a Bagpiper.