The bagpipes are a traditional instrument with a distinct sound immediately recognizable as Scottish. They are composed of a bag that holds a reservoir of air, the air supply that the piper blows into, and multiple pipes. There are two types of pipes. A chanter is played by piper with both hands, and provides the melody. The drone(s) play continuously. There are number of different styles of bagpipes. The Great Highland Bagpipe is the best known type, and has three drones (one bass and two tenors).
Scottish music features a number of other traditional instruments in addition to the bagpipes. Accordions, Fiddles, Guitars, Harps and Tin Whistles are commonly used in Scottish music.
More info on Folksongs of Scotland
Most associate Scottish music with traditional folk songs. Today, Scotland produces a rich array of music in wide range of genres. Scotland has produced successful bands in rock, pop, jazz, hip-hip, punk, metal, and others.
The Clan Henderson Bard, John Mallernee, helps preserve Scotland’s traditional folk music.