The Great Highland Bagpipe

The Great Highland is a type of bagpipe native to Scotland. It has achieved widespread
recognition through its usage in the British military and in pipe bands throughout the world.
The earliest forerunners of the Great Highland Bagpipes had emerged in the Near East and
Egypt by 2500 B.C.

The bagpipe is first attested in Scotland around 1400 A.D. (Anno Domini/in the year of our
Lord), having previously appeared in European artwork in Spain in the 13th century. The
earliest references to Scottish bagpipes are in a military context, and it is in that context
that the Great Highland Bagpipe became established in the British military and achieved the
widespread prominence it enjoys today, whereas other bagpipe traditions throughout
Europe, ranging from Spain to Russia, almost universally went into decline by the late 19th
and early 20th centuries.

The three pipes that rise out of the instrument create a constant sound, with a fourth pipe
holding nine holes for chord and pitch changes. The bags are usually made of sheep or elk
skin and fill with air, which is then pressed by the arm to push the air through. The sound is
undeniable when heard and evokes a sense of time-honored tradition for those who love the
music of the Scottish Highlands.

Every August pipers from around the world gather in Glasgow for the world championships.
This competition runs for a week and showcases the best players.