450 - Is Moisture Good or Bad for Pipers? (Dojo Conversations Ep 120)

Ever picked up your pipes on a rainy day and wondered why they sounded... different? Or maybe you’ve struggled to keep them in tune during a frosty morning performance? Humidity and bagpipes have a complicated relationship – sometimes best friends, sometimes worst enemies. This week, Andrew and Jim explore the crucial role of humidity for pipers – and how much is too much. They discuss using hygrometers, the effects of temperature and humidity on tuning, and why playing in the right conditions can make all the difference. Plus, catch some top tips for keeping your pipes in top condition whether you're playing in hot, humid summers or freezing winters. Got a topic you’d like covered in a future episode? Leave a comment or email us: [email protected] Here’s what we cover this week: 00:00 Casual Catch-Up and Travel Plans 00:58 Parenting Challenges and Winter Woes 02:35 Florida Adventures and Gator Anxiety 04:45 Sunburns and Bagpipe Competitions 06:50 The Science of Hygrometers 15:09 Practical Applications of Hygrometers 18:26 Temperature and Humidity Effects on Bagpipes 24:29 The Glasgow Lands Effect 26:14 Understanding the Impact of Humidity on Bagpipes 26:49 Condensation and Its Effects on Bagpipes 27:35 Ideal Conditions for Playing Bagpipes 28:19 Worst Conditions for Playing Bagpipes 30:03 Personal Anecdotes and Experiences 36:51 Storing Bagpipes: Tips and Tricks 39:44 The Role of Hygrometers in Bagpipe Maintenance 44:35 Challenges of Playing Bagpipes in Different Environments 47:53 Final Thoughts and Reflections