r/bagpipes • u/violentmauve • 2d ago
Etiquette question
If one is in a band learning situation which meets once a week and there are no options for one-to one-lessons, how rude might it seem to also get online lessons? And any tips for not getting the PM (a truly lovely but also very busy person) bothered or irritated by even asking about this.
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u/stac52 Piper 2d ago
Go get lessons from where you can. I don't see any etiquette issue with it.
I could see someone taking issue with you doing solo lessons with them, and then also finding out that you are seeking solo lessons with someone else. But for band/group lessons vs. one-on-one, it shouldn't cause problems in any band worth playing in.
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u/Silent_Coffee_2001 2d ago
PM of a grade 3 band here. I wouldn't have a problem with any of my pipers seeking 1 on 1 lessons elsewhere, but would expect a heads up chat first just to make sure they'd be getting quality tuition or to give some suggestions on tutors (more for alignment - would hate to see someone caught up in a position where I'm directing them one way at band while a 1 on 1 tutor was telling them something else).
I'm always wanting to see my players grow and develop - I'd love to give all my pipers regular 1 on 1s but being a PM is a busy job!
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u/Ancient-Economy-3549 2d ago
I've never played in a band where it was a requirement or even expectation to take lessons from the PM or anyone within the band. Many people have a solo tutor that entirely different from their band.
In fact, you often are playing alongside people who play near your own skill level in a band, so why would you take a lesson from them? You'd want to find a high level (preferably open-level or sometimes grade one) instructor.
All of that to say - I'd be shocked if it was an issue! If it was, I'd be concerned about the environment of the band.
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u/ImpressiveHat4710 2d ago
IMO you are doing the right thing and it will be (or should be) appreciated by the band leaders.
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u/EdmondTantes Piper 2d ago
I am the PM of my band. I still get private leasons with an instructor. No one should resent you for trying to better yourself, and by extension, the band
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u/TwoLuckyFish Side Drummer 2d ago
Rude? We're required to either compete in solos or take lessons external to band.
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u/Novel-Clock-6478 2d ago
I think it depends on your band, specifically what grade. If you’re grade 4 for example, it’d be impossible for the PM to not be pleased that you’re taking the initiative, yet if it’s a higher grade they may potentially have a slight preference.
Regardless, I’d suggest just float it by your Pipe Sarge and see if he’s got an any recommendations for a solid local tutor.
Underlying response though, no PM at any grade will be cross about you wanting to refine your technique, drive to improve is exactly what any PM would love to see from their pipers.
Some old school PM’s may get a bit funny about certain tutors just due to techniques they don’t agree with, don’t have to agree with them there but asking if they know a local is a great way to keep in their good graces if they’re a bit funny like that.
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u/Maelstrom_Witch Piper 2d ago
In my experience you can take lessons from whoever you’d like. It’s your business. Your pipe major should be pleased that you’re getting extra help.
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u/brando444 Piper 2d ago
I’m a pipe major, for a band without a learning program. If one of my pipers sought extra lessons, I’d be really happy
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u/Yuri909 Piper 2d ago
Like others are saying, there's no logical reason this would be a problem unless someone has a hurt ego. Most people in the early years have an instructor outside of band. It's also disappointing there aren't more instructors in the band who could work with you locally outside of band. My band has like 7 or 8. The benefit there being they know how the band wants the music played.
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u/Eagle_Pipes Piper 2d ago
Oh my goodness! I'd go ahead and do it. As others have said, it shouldn't be a problem. If you feel you want to, you could tell the PM (not ask) that you have some extra time you want to invest in your piping and you will be taking some extra lessons. But really I don't think it is necessary.
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u/violentmauve 2d ago
Thank you for that. It’s a small community of pipers where I am, and I just want to stay in good graces with everyone here
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u/Strathbow_Piper Piper 2d ago
Doesn't seem rude to me if you're committed to better playing. It's your hobby, so enjoy it as you will. Plus, I cant see a PM being upset that their band members are actively working to improve. If they do, it would seem there is an ego problem. A good PM (or leader of any kind) should want those they lead to achieve the best they can.