Bagpipes & Popular Culture
Bagpipes are commonly associated with Celtic and modern Scottish culture. They've been played since ancient times and in many parts of the world at festivities, as part of marching armies, at fairs and even during religious ceremonies. But bagpipes have also been integrated into modern popular culture. Today the instrument enjoys popularity in Europe and North America.
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Origins
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The exact origins of the bagpipe are open to dispute. The Bagpipe Oregon website notes the appearance of reeded pipes (without the "bag," in other words) in ancient Egypt, as indicated by that culture’s artwork. The Highland Net website suggests that bagpipes originated in the Middle East before being introduced in Europe—and eventually, Scotland—by the Celts in Roman times.
Military Role
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Scotland’s association with the bagpipes is linked closely with the country’s military history, with the instrument being used as a call to arms by Scottish military leaders. The Great Highland bagpipe, commonly used by the Scots, was banned by British rulers after the Scottish defeat in 1745, and remained so for another 50 years due to its ability to motivate men to war. The bagpipes were eventually adopted by the British army, leading to the recruitment of many Scots who desired to play the instrument again.
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Symbolism
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The role of the bagpipes throughout military and Scottish history has created a symbolic myth around the instrument. The bagpipes have come to represent freedom and a desire to escape oppression, not just for the native Scots, but for people of Scottish descent. Bagpipes are commonly used by both the Scottish and Americans at funerals and as parts of military marching bands.
Across The World
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Many European cultures have featured slightly different versions of the bagpipes, as the Bagpipe Oregon website notes. For example, in the northwest regions of Spain, where Celtic migrants settled, the playing of the Gaita Gallega, a bagpipe variant, still thrives today. Meanwhile, the Dudelsack was once played in Germany, as evidenced by its appearance in numerous pre-19th century paintings, according to the Hotpipes website. The Dudelsack dropped from common use in the 19th century, but has since been revived by German musicians.
Popular Music
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Today the bagpipes are not restricted to marching bands or revivals. For example, Irish-American rock band Flogging Molly has incorporated traditional instruments such as bagpipes into its songs.
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References
- Photo Credit playing the bagpipe image by Joy Fera from Fotolia.com
