Educational Resources
The Irish Pipe Band Association
Cumann Buíon Píobaire na hÉireann.
On this page you will find various resources for Teaching and learning in a pipe band setting. Most of the manuals are free to download and distribute and there are also links to online web providers of piping and drumming lessons and tutorials.
Cross Border Orchestra of Ireland
Pipe Band Links 2026
The Pipe Band groups will be involved with 3 concert items in 2026.
- From Now On
- Good Things Grow
- Test Drive
Download the rehearsal and concert dates.
PIPING
From Now On – slow pipe practice recording
Good Things Grow – pipe recording
Good Things Grow – slow pipe practice recording
Test Drive – slow pipe practice recording
DRUMMING SCORES
DRUMMING VIDEO TUTORIALS
Begin Piping
'Begin Piping' is a booklet produced by Johnny Sheehan of the IPBA. Click the Image to view the booklet.
Syllabus- Foundation Course for Practice Chanter
This document lays out the syllabus which is followed in the 'Getting to Grips' Booklet.
Getting to Grips
'Getting to Grips' is a booklet produced by Johnny Sheehan of the IPBA. Click on the image to view the booklet.
Begin Drumming
'Begin Drumming' is a booklet produced by Johnny Sheehan of the IPBA. Click on the image to view the booklet.
Syllabus-Foundation Course for Drumming
This document sets out the syllabus for the foundation course on drumming in the 'Begin Drumming' Booklet
IPBA Tutor's Manual
The 'IPBA Tutor's Manual' is a guide to teaching pipes and drums to children which has been produced by Brian Mac Mahon of the IPBA. Click on the image to view the booklet.
Welcoming and Catering for Children with Special Needs
This booklet on dealing with special needs gives basic advice on catering for special children or vulnerable adults.
An Introduction to Score Reading for Drummers
This booklet introduces the pipe band drummer to reading drum scores. The booklet has been produced by Aidan McCarthy who drums with both New Ross & District and Youghal Pipe Band.
FREE Internet Resources for Pipe Band Tutors
Download: The Successful Pipe Major by Bob Shepherd
Download : The Successful Pipe Major by Bob Shepherd-Part 2
RSPBA Structured Learning Book 1 – Elementary
RSPBA Structured Learning Book 2- Intermediate
RSPBA Structured Learning Book 3-Advanced
The Piping and Drumming Qualifications Board (check out their courses and syllabus)
Internet Resources for Pipe Band Pupils and Tutors which can be purchased online.
Rhythmic Fingerwork by Jim McGillivray.
Pipes Ready (Online Video) : This video tutorial deals with bagpipe maintenance and basic tuning.
Pipes Up (Online Video) : This video tutorial deals with the finer points of tuning for the solos piper.
Learn Bagpipes Online (Online lessons and tutorials).