What are the Uilleann Pipes you may ask? When one thinks of bagpipes, you instantly have an image of a Scottish man, dressed in a kilt, playing the “Highland” bagpipes. But, what many people don’t know is that the Irish also have bagpipes. The differences are quite distinct. The Scottish play with their mouth, forcing air into a bag, and then pushing the air out with their arm. The Irish don’t use their mouths at all. Instead they have a separate bellows that forces air into the bag in which they press through the pipes. The sound is much more subtle than the Scottish bagpipes. The Scottish traditionally used them in times of war. The Irish use them in times of song and drinking. 
But, don’t quote me on these facts.
My husband became obsessed with bagpipes after seeing a band from Australia called “Brother” play the Highland bagpipes. It was a great mix of rock and bagpipes. Looking to purchase his own set he stumbled upon the Uilleann Bagpipes. He soon found a club in Southern California that meets to play and learn about these beautiful instruments called the “Southern California Uilleann Pipers’ Club”.
We had the privilege of attending an amazing concert held down in San Juan Capistrano of some very talented artists playing these amazing instruments. The first was a man by the name of Ivan Goff. He’s originally from Dublin, but now living in New York. The second guest was Kevin Rowsome. To hear some tunes check out this website and enjoy the sounds of the Uilleann Bagpipes.
Ivan Goff
Kevin Rowsome
Ivan and Kevin playing a few tunes together.
If you want to see a really good great highland bagpipe band with a real twist, check out the Wicked Tinkers. They are here out of LA, and they are amazing. Their concerts are amazing.