Etive Pipers | Bagpipe Lessons in Oban with Aaron McInnes

Chanter & Bagpipe Lessons for young people in Oban

Structured, progressive tuition from beginner chanter to confident piper. Your child will learn to read music, build real technique, and develop as a musician, supported every step of the way.

Thursday evenings
Ages 7-16
£5-7 per session

See The Journey → Sign Up Now

Welcome!

Hi, I’m Aaron.

I started Etive Pipers to give young pipers in Oban the opportunities to reach the highest levels. Every pupil learns to read music, develops a real understanding of the instrument, and builds the confidence to follow their own path in piping, wherever that leads.

Whether your child is picking up the chanter for the first time or already playing tunes on the pipes, they’ll be learning alongside others at a similar stage, building real skills week by week.

More About Me →

Aaron teaching chanter technique to young pupils

Young chanter players learning to write music

The Journey

Every piper starts somewhere. At Etive Pipers, your child progresses through six stages, each with clear goals, growing expectations, and the support to meet them.

Beginners

First notes on the chanter. Learning correct finger placement, and starting to read music from day one. Short, focused sessions for new learners.

Explorers

Finding their feet. Developing embellishments, learning new tunes, improving control and timing. Music reading growing stronger each week.

Navigators

Expanding repertoire. Exploring different styles of music, developing listening skills, and preparing for the transition to pipes.

Pioneers

Onto the pipes. Learn to blow a good sound, build stamina, play bigger pieces, and perform sets together as a group.

Performers

Refining their craft. Focusing on expression, technique, and the confidence to perform.

Innovators

Developing their voice. Complex repertoire, competition preparation, and creative work including composition and arrangement.

Get Started →

Not sure which stage your child’s at? No worries, just get in touch and I’ll help figure it out.

Young pipers during a group practice session

Quartet of new pipers performing at the Tartan Dash

Quartet of experienced pipers performing at a wedding

Private Lessons one-to-one with Aaron

Tailored tuition built around your goals. Whether you’re an adult picking up the pipes for the first time, returning after years away, or preparing for competitions, lessons fit around your schedule, online or in-person.

All ages & levels
Flexible scheduling
Online or in-person

Explore Private Lessons →

What Parents Say

★★★★★

“My son is so lucky to be part of this amazing wee group of musicians. The teaching, support and mentoring is top class!”

Oonagh

★★★★★

“I’ve been really impressed with these classes for my son. He’s enjoying them, developing well, and has felt supported to do his first recital performances, and enter a competition. Thanks!”

Beth Davies

★★★★★

“This is a fantastic group that is really inclusive whether you’re just starting out on the chanter or have been playing the pipes a while. Always extremely helpful.”

Shona Bullock

★★★★★

“The lessons are a great mix of teaching children individually and as a groups. It is very well organised with goals and targets for them to achieve. Their successes are recognised and celebrated. Great communication and feedback… plenty of online resources.”

Helen

★★★★★

“Fabulous group for the enthusiastic young piper. Excellent tuition in a supportive fun environment.”

Morven

Frequently Asked Questions

Do we need our own chanter?

You can rent or buy a chanter from me, or I can advise on purchasing your own.
Learn more about chanter hire →

Can parents attend the session?

Parents are welcome to wait in the corridor and have a listen in. I find classes work best without too many distractions inside, but you’re welcome to pop in at pickup time.