Dil's Instruments

Dil plays mostly whistle and pipes in the band.

Once upon a time, bagpipes were played throughout the whole of Europe but have now fallen into disuse, except in certain areas such as Scotland, Ireland, and Northumbria. It is thought that bagpipes were the forerunner of instruments like the Oboe and Clarinet and later the Saxophone.

The only evidence of Bagpipes in England is in drawings and sculptures, such as in Churches and in illustrations within literature. The Miller in “The Canterbury Tales” played a large mouth-blown Bagpipe, if the drawings are to be believed.

Despite appearing very simple, they require considerable skill to achieve a good sound and are capable of producing excellent music.

Dil plays a variety of sizes, from the common High D whistle to the less common Low D whistle - or drainpipe. All her whistles were made by the SUSATO company.

John plays the much cheaper Generation brand for some of our music.

“Penny Whistles” now cost anywhere from £1 to £200, possibly even more.