401 - Is Bass Drone Tuning "Hard"? (Dojo Conversations Episode 71)

Pipers around the world find bagpipe tuning one of the hardest skills to master. Why?

This week, we're using the physics of sound to explain why, as we look in-depth at how the harmonics of bagpipe chanter and drone reeds relate to each other. Brace yourself, dear listener – this is the sound nerd deep dive to rule them all! If you're listening to the audio version of this podcast, you may want to check out the version on YouTube or Facebook for some of the visual references, too – we promise they'll blow your mind too...

Want to dive even deeper on the physics and practical tips for bagpipe tuning? You can check out our full Bagpipe Tuning Algorithm Course with Premium Dojo U Membership – visit pipersdojo.com to check it out today!

Got a question for a future episode? Leave a comment or email it to us at [email protected].

Here's what we're covering this week:
00:00 Unlocking the Mysteries of Bass Tuning
00:26 Morning Banter: Compliments and Podcast Dynamics
02:06 Exploring the Evolution of the Bagpipe
06:09 The Great Highland Bagpipe: History and Evolution
12:32 The Challenge of Tuning the Bass Drone
24:13 Harmonics and the Richness of Bagpipes
28:13 Exploring the Harmonics of Bagpipes
29:17 The Physics of Reeded Instruments
31:45 Harmonic Differences Among Instruments
37:08 Advanced Harmonics and Instrument Tuning Insights
37:53 The Art of Tuning: Practical Tips and Tricks
42:45 The Beauty of Dissonance in Music
48:38 The Complexity of Harmonics in Pipe Bands
57:16 Concluding Thoughts on Harmonics and Tuning