Mastering Drone Tuning Screws for the Great Highland Bagpipe

In this episode of The Pipe Box, Gold Medallist Jim McGillivray takes a deep dive into mastering drone tuning screws, a critical skill for optimizing the performance of your Great Highland Bagpipe. Properly setting up synthetic drone reeds is key to achieving a rich, balanced sound, smooth strike-ins, and avoiding common issues like double-toning (roars).

Jim offers a comprehensive, unbiased review of four popular synthetic drone reed brands—Ezeedrone, Canning, Kinnaird, and Highland Reed’s Balance Tone—highlighting their unique features and providing step-by-step guidance for adjusting tuning screws. Learn how to fine-tune your reeds for precise pitch control, optimal performance, and reliable tuning stability.

Here’s an easy rule to follow: Moving the screw outward flattens the pitch and lowers the drone top on the tuning pin, while moving the screw inward sharpens the pitch and raises the drone top. With Jim’s expert advice, you’ll gain confidence in refining your setup and elevating your sound.

#Bagpipes #DroneReeds #BagpipeTuning #SyntheticDroneReeds #JimMcGillivray #BagpipeTutorials #ThePipeBox #GreatHighlandBagpipe #bagpiper #bagpipelessons

[Jordenweiss]

Jim, Thanks so much for your excellent lessons! I learn so much each time I study your exercises!
Best! Jorden

[jesseburnette]

What’s the most air efficient + best sounding synthetic reed on the market in your opinion?