Playing in the Rain

Wouldn't it be lovely if every piping engagement was either inside a big acoustically perfect auditorium or outside on a warm sunny day, and we wouldn't have to consider what we’d do if it rained?  To be invited to play for a memorial service outside in November in Canada brings definite thoughts about what to do if it rains or if the weather is expected to be so cold that the fingers won’t manipulate properly on the pipe chanter.  One must also consider the possibility of endangering the pipes to cracking, thus ruining them because of the differential of temperatures, inside and outside the pipes.

Those were precisely the considerations for the day I was scheduled to play for a graveside service on November the 30th and the prediction was for heavy rain.  Preparations were made nevertheless, because the weather can change every half-hour in White Rock, and with fervent prayer, God might be compassionate and eliminate the rain.

Much praying was done in the two weeks beforehand and on that morning, my full piper’s outfit was protected with a clear plastic raincoat with a hood.  The pipes were tuned at the cemetery shortly beforehand and there was time for a walk-through on the path that would lead the family to the graveside of their two deceased brothers.  A small amount of rain was falling when everyone was paraded to the location.  “O Rowan Tree” was the selection.  The service went smoothly, with a sister reading the 23rd Psalm.  Her brother presented eulogies and a prayer. “Amazing Grace” was played and soon everyone was led back to the road with, “When They Ring Those Golden Bells.”  The final hymn, “Safe in the Arms of Jesus,” was long enough to end the service nicely, yet not so long that it would retain everyone in the cold, damp air.

We thank God for allowing the rain to subside long enough for the service to go well, and that the pipes could be an integral part of this family’s precious moments.

Cold weather and rain are elements that make piping difficult, and certain standards have to be set by pipers regarding their ability to say, “No,” for outside services if there is an expectation of inclement weather.  Definitely, pouring rain and temperatures near freezing are not conducive to good piping.  A cold, wet chanter is difficult to play because the fingers slip and cannot cover the holes properly.  The sound will be embarrassingly affected.  If one finds himself or herself in that situation, it is well to have a dry towel handy, to wipe the chanter dry, and it is also well to have kept the hands under one’s armpits to keep the fingers warm.  A fine set of bagpipes can be ruined by severely cold weather.  It is wise not to consider playing outside when the temperature is too uncomfortable to do so.  It’s best for the piper and his pipes.

In general, one is wise not to accept engagements to play outside in cold or rainy weather.  If the pipes must be heard at the graveside and the weather conditions are not suitable for piping, then a recording of the hymns should be played instead.