Chiff and Fipple Forums

Hi,

I have just been made aware that a music related organization has obtained a set of pipes. The org has a member who is a piper and knows that the instrument is actually a set of Uilleann pipes. I have never seen the set and likely never will unless I am sent photos. The org and the associated piper do not currently know the age or original maker of the instrument. I was approached to recommend a "conservator" who can evaluate the instrument, make needed repairs or stabilize it and, if possible, make it playable.

So, if we assume for the moment that it is actually an old set, who would you recommend to do the work?

I've only interacted with makers for the purpose of making/maintaining new sets.

All the best,
Dean...K...

K&Q, singly or together.

hi,i think you would be hard pushed to find a competent pipe maker who has the time to devote to restoring an old set above filling their own orders.good luck with that.allan.

allan moller wrote:hi,i think you would be hard pushed to find a competent pipe maker who has the time to devote to restoring an old set above filling their own orders.

Agreed. There isn't much profit in making a new set of pipes and even less in restoring an old set. It's a labour of love.

PJ wrote:

allan moller wrote:hi,i think you would be hard pushed to find a competent pipe maker who has the time to devote to restoring an old set above filling their own orders.

Agreed. There isn't much profit in making a new set of pipes and even less in restoring an old set. It's a labour of love.

I'd love to make or restore a set of Uilleann pipes someday..

I think i'd ask Martin Gallen / Banba. I think he restored a Rowsome set for Paddy Keenan not long ago. (i am aware of the fact that just because he did this one set doesn't mean he's up to more )

ennischanter wrote:

PJ wrote:

allan moller wrote:hi,i think you would be hard pushed to find a competent pipe maker who has the time to devote to restoring an old set above filling their own orders.

Agreed. There isn't much profit in making a new set of pipes and even less in restoring an old set. It's a labour of love.

I'd love to make or restore a set of Uilleann pipes someday..

My voice of experience would counsel anyone contemplating a carear as a Pipemaker to only do so if you can afford to. After 35 years at it I am still living hand to mouth and facing the bleak prospect of reaching retirement age with no Pension... so no chance of stopping to enjoy those last few years in peace...!!

Agreed. There isn't much profit in making a new set of pipes and even less in restoring an old set. It's a labour of love.[/quote]


I'd love to make or restore a set of Uilleann pipes someday..[/quote]


My voice of experience would counsel anyone contemplating a carear as a Pipemaker to only do so if you can afford to. After 35 years at it I am still living hand to mouth and facing the bleak prospect of reaching retirement age with no Pension... so no chance of stopping to enjoy those last few years in peace...!! [/quote]

Though only a few benefit directly, we bless you for your sacrifice.

Pipewort wrote:Agreed. There isn't much profit in making a new set of pipes and even less in restoring an old set. It's a labour of love.

Though only a few benefit directly, we bless you for your sacrifice.[/quote]


Thanks for your blessing Pipewort!

Geoff

I'd be up for the job no problem

From everything I hear, Martin did a grand job on Paddy's pipes!

However, if for any reason they/you want to keep the set in the States, Nick Whitmer has been working on restoring a hydra of a Taylor set lately. Not sure how they'd feel about it (haven't asked them), but Tommy Martin is near you; Tim Benson might be another option.

Geoff,

Understood, but you have a fantastic legacy. I love my B set.

Andy

andyp wrote:Geoff,

Understood, but you have a fantastic legacy. I love my B set.

Andy

That is very gratifying to know Andy.

Michael Hubbert is a very experienced woodwind instrument restorer, and an impeccable craftsman; a friend of mine had him refurbish an old Alf Kennedy set a few years ago, and was quite happy with the results.