Reddit reviews College of Piping Highland Bagpipe Tutor Part 1 Book (Green Book)

Well, pretty much off the bat, I'd probably have to admit you may have more musical talent than just about any bagpiper I've ever met. (Although, this is by no means an exhaustive list...)

Most importantly, regardless of anyone's level of talent, I would ALWAYS have to recommend getting a teacher -- if you only have one lesson a month (or even less), this will still go a long way toward avoiding embedded bad habits that plague you for a long time...

However, it is certainly possible to teach yourself at least the basics. First, find a bagpiping store within reasonable driving range -- not a music store with a set of pipes in a back corner, this is not a recipe for success. From this store, you'll need to purchase a practice chanter, here are examples: http://www.piperscove.com/proddetail.asp?prod=PC Obviously, you can still do this on the internet, but I would definitely be happier touching the goods before I purchase...

Next, get this book: http://www.amazon.com/College-Piping-Highland-Bagpipe-Tutor/dp/B001PFBW42 You don't have to get it from Amazon if you don't want, the store you found in step one will certainly have a copy, and if you're REALLY Scottish (meaning cheap), the entire text of the book is here: http://mhgtr.files.wordpress.com/2012/08/piping-tutor-book-01.pdf

This book has descriptions of 99% of the technique you'll ever use, has been used by millions people already (really), and still going strong with pipers around the world. It's got a fair bit of sheet music inside, as well. (I've been playing for 16 years, btw, and I've never seen volume 2.)

I should finish up with one more thought: Piping (heck, music) is a communal activity. You're obviously a talented and experienced music and I'm guessing you already know this. If possible, find a band in your area, do their shows and march in their parades. It shouldn't be expensive -- if it is, find a different band. Your playing will definitely benefit, and so will the band you join. You could join a band and learn to play, or you could learn to play and join a band -- whichever works best for you. Again, that store you found in step one can help you, and so can this subreddit, if you need it. And if, by some chance, you live in central New Jersey, let me know and I'll send you directions to Thursday's practice....

I'd really recommend getting one-on-one tuition so you don't pick up bad habits/techniques. But if you're set on teaching yourself, get the College of Piping Book 1 - it not only teaches you how to play but maintenance and everything else that goes along with bagpipes. If I remember correctly, I think there's three books which gradually get more advanced. You'll be able to get it in any music shop. YouTube is also a good source for tuition as well although a lot of the people making tutorials don't have the best technique themselves. Use your own judgement there: if it sounds shite, it probably is. Find someone who sounds like they know what they're talking about.
If you can, go into a bagpipe shop to get a chanter. Being more specialist, they'll be able to help you more than a generic music shop. Get a synthetic chanter for about £30 and absolutely don't get a cheap wooden one - it will sound awful and it will be hard for you to gauge any improvement.
Biggest piece of advice I can give you though is be patient. It will be difficult and frustrating so don't try and rush ahead. Take your time to learn the embellishments and finger techniques properly and that will set you up for playing well in the future. Reading music will come with time so don't worry about that. Good luck! And if you have any more questions, feel free to ask

http://www.amazon.com/College-Piping-Highland-Bagpipe-Tutor/dp/B001PFBW42 that one

Most people would recommend starting out with an instructor. I guess it saves you from learning too many bad habits when you try to start learning by yourself. However, if you want to give it a go I'd recommend this book. I'm sure using it in conjunction with an instructor wouldn't do much harm either.

Not to be all negative and shit, but I wouldn't expect too much from that chanter you bought. Generally any bagpipe-related stuff made in Pakistan is of poor quality. Then again, I've never tried a Pakistani practice chanter, it might tide you over okay for a little while. I'm sure you'd have a much nicer learning experience with a chanter by a reputable maker though. You can get one bundled along with that book I recommended here.

Hope you stick with it and enjoy the ride. :)