Jimmyt... depends where you are how you start... If you are in the New York area, begin and want to play Uilleann pipes, step one is to order a practice set from Seth Gallagher, I'd go to no one else. Then find a teacher, email me about that... InOBU@aol.com, then start saving a lot of cash, as to build a full set you need about what you would spend on a mid size car... if you live outside the New York area, take up the highland pipes. Yes you can play the Highland pipes at sessions, but no one other than bombard and bodhran players can play with you, and just as well... Spanish pipes can be found D and can be played at sessions, but why not move to New York and take up the Uilleann pipes. You can also learn the Uilleann pipes in Ireland, but it is harder to get a good set there.
Cheers Larry
PS Actually the first step is to email me and order the CD Nil Sasta ach Amadain, by the great band Sorcha Dorcha...