The Cheat Code to Becoming A Master Piper (or Drummer)

Ever wondered how the truly great players achieve such outstanding levels of skill and mastery? 

Is it innate talent? Luck of the draw? Divinely blessed bloodlines? 

The truth is, it's none of those. Becoming great at a skill isn't magic. It's a journey. Just like most skill-based pursuits, many pipers could reach those levels if they tried, applied the discipline, determination and process required to continually improve and achieve true musical freedom... but most don't. 

Why? Because it's hard! It's time consuming to put in the hours and time required to become a master at something. Most of us don't have time in our busy lives to dedicate the hours and focus required to get there. 

But... I've noticed over the years that there's a cheat code you can use.

I've seen most of the greatest pipers in the world use it. I definitely have it – I always have, from as long as I can remember. It's helped me reach the highest levels of piping in the world, and build a successful business that also allows me to make piping my entire career. 

So what's the cheat code? 

It’s called obsession.

Let’s talk about how this cheat code works – and whether it’s right for you...

The Obsession Cheat Code

Obsession sounds intense. Because it is. It’s waking up every day excited to play, to refine your embellishments, to perfect your tuning.

It’s the difference between liking the bagpipes and living for them.

When you’re obsessed, practice doesn’t feel like work – it feels like play. Every challenge is just another opportunity to master the craft.

Think about a top-tier piper who doesn’t just run through their set list, but gets lost in the music, breaking down each phrase, adjusting pressure, exploring every nuance of the instrument. To them, practice is like dessert – it’s all enjoyable. 

The Sweet Spot: Balancing Practice and Fun

 Now, let’s be real – not everyone is obsessed, and that’s totally fine (in fact, it's probably much healthier in a lot of ways!).

You can still improve without spending every waking moment ruminating about piping.

The key? Balance.

Think of practice like a meal. You need your meat and vegetables – the focused, structured effort that builds real skill. But you also need dessert – the fun, rewarding part that keeps you coming back.

For example, start your practice session with 10 minutes of focused embellishment work or tuning drills (your veggies). Then, reward yourself by playing a tune you love, one that makes you feel truly connected to the pipes (dessert). This way, you improve and enjoy the process.

Too much structure? You’ll burn out. Too much fun without progress? You’ll plateau.

The best approach is a mix of both. 

Practice Makes Perfect

Even without obsession, consistent, focused practice is the real game-changer. Look at any skilled piper, and you’ll see they put in the reps – but in a smart way.

Great pipers don’t just play full tunes; they break them down, isolating tricky grace notes and refining fingerwork.

They don’t just play through a set once; they work on steady blowing, tuning, and rhythmic control until it’s second nature.

They don’t just march up and down the street; they analyze their performance, record themselves, and adjust accordingly.

Want to get better at the pipes? Try a few small habits that will pay big dividends:

• Break it down. Focus on one small part at a time – grace notes, embellishments, tuning, or steady blowing.
• Use objective tools. A metronome for timing, a manometer for blowing steadiness, recordings for self-analysis.
• Be consistent. Even 10 minutes of focused practice a day beats one huge session once a week.

Is Obsession For You? 

Obsession is powerful, but it’s not for everyone. And that’s okay! Some people thrive on total immersion, while others prefer a balanced approach.

If you love the bagpipes without being obsessed, don’t feel like you need to change. Enjoy the process at your own pace.

If you are obsessed, embrace it – but make sure it’s healthy. Burnout is real, and sometimes stepping back actually helps you improve faster. The key is consistent, smart practice – and always with a little bit of fun mixed in.

Check out this Dojo Conversations episode as we explore the 'cheat code' of obsession in more detail.