Thank you Donald Gannaway!
I met Donald Gannaway at a solo piping competition in 1992. As a beginner, I had developed incorrect finger positions on the chanter. Donald took me aside, helped me establish very natural, relaxed hand positions and encouraged me to take part in the weekend seminars he was running at that time.
His unique approach toward developing excellent finger technique to create the rhythms and sounds one hears in highland pipe music has been of immense help to me, not only in being able to more enjoy my piping, but also in understanding why a good tune played by a top piper sounds so good. His extensive knowledge of piobaireachd and intimate understanding of the subtleties required in the playing of Ceol Mor has also helped me gain full appreciation of the beauty of this music.
Donald received much of his piobaireachd directly from Pipe Major Donald McLeod under whom he studied in the late 1960’s. With his insightful musical guidance and excellent ability to draw out the best in his pupils, he has enriched my understanding and enjoyment of the playing of both Ceol Mor and Ceol Beag.
Donald is an excellent teacher who dedicates himself to all his pupils. In my opinion, I have never met a better tutor.
Craig Holmquist, Switzerland
I am currently a pupil learning from Donald and began the piping journey as an adult learner. By teaching to individual learning styles. Donald can support his students to refine their technical skills and make progress.
Done so with explanation, patience and encouragement. In addition, performance with expression is strongly encouraged and by understanding the rhythms of each time signature, piping has become a whole lot more meaningful and enjoyable.
The manual written by Donald, I see as a legacy to future generations of pipers and tutors. It generously records the wealth of knowledge he has accumulated about piping. The contents are instructional, purposeful and useful and written in user friendly language. And, is highly recommended.
Liz, New Zealand
I picked up the pipes as an adult and have been playing now for 22 years. I wondered why I wasn’t a better player. I’m a clever fellow and have a musical background. I practiced exercises and went to workshops and took skype lessons from some very notable pipers.
Donald was the first person to bring to my attention some of the very basic mistakes I was making. I remember distinctly in my second lesson he said, “Let’s talk about your G grace note”. He doesn’t just point out the problem though. He has a distinct method to correct technique. I wish I had met him many years ago.
He is an opinionated, but pleasant chap. I always enjoy our lessons.
John Brady, Omaha Nebraska, USA
Donald is an amazing teacher. He has an amazing ear and knowledge to help mature beginners and talented, experienced players alike. He sets high standards and will accept nothing less. He knows where to start, and the progressions needed for individual players to master a tune. Be prepared to sing the rhythms, beat in time and march to each rhythm.
Anne Irving, New Zealand
I have known Donald for over 24 years, recommencing lessons with him last year via skype after break of 17 years. Donald has a great knowledge of piping in general, both light music and Ceol Mor; and importantly the ability and desire to impart that knowledge.
His teaching style I would describe as professional, patient but firm; with Donald you never go away wondering. I have found he always has an exercise or suggestion to correct a problem, be it fingering technique, memorizing of tunes, or helping to manage nerves.
Donald has taught a range of pupils over the years, from beginners to those destined to be champions; as well as those of us just wanting to enjoy their playing and be the best they can be.
I have no hesitation in recommending Donald to anyone wishing to improve their playing and enjoyment of this great instrument.
John McLanachan, Queensland, Australia
I started learning bagpipes at 52 years and the experienced players in my band taught me enough to play alongside them in the band. While I had met Donald before, he was my examiner as I was attempting to put myself through the Intermediate RNZPBA exam. About 3 tunes in during the exam he stopped me and said, “You are not good enough are you?” Of course, I wasn’t but I presumed I didn’t have any other way of getting better other than going through the exam process. I asked if he would take me on as pupil, thinking I would be too old and lacking ability. But apparently not and so began a 15-year piping journey.
Donald says it ‘how it is’, but he will teach you from whatever level of ability you are at and where you are at on the day. He knows when you don’t practice but he doesn’t make a big deal of it. You start your lesson from the point where you are able to work from.
Donald has an analytical brain and can break techniques down into more detail than I would have thought possible. He also has an acute ear – and he could be blind and still know what your fingers are doing.
Heather Fifield, New Zealand
Donald has been teaching me well over a year now. During which time he has been extremely patient and organised. He can be very flexible with sessions if needed and with the music you choose to play. He tailors his lessons very carefully to the level of the leaner. I would recommend him for anyone and any age.
Anthea, New Zealand
