BS: Sometimes all ya need is a goal...

Subject: Sometimes all ya need is a goal...
From: PeteBoom
Date: 22 Jan 02 - 09:00 AM

So here I am, checking one of my other favorite music sites, one for pipers and drummers to be precise, and the site owner and "chief moderator" has a photo up of his daughter's new set of pipes. A set of Nail pipes (particular manufacturer) with full silver mountings. An instrument that costs THOUSANDS of US dollars just for the silver. Not to mention the most simple, stripped down set by this make runs over 1,000 US$.

Somebody asked "WHY?" Now, when reading this response, in piping, most beginners start competing at Grade 5 or 4, depending on where you are, and move up through each level to Grade 1 - the highest level of amatuer competion. Only one level is beyond that - Professional.

So - in case anyone is interested about young people and music...

"I don't know how many folks know the story..

In 1994 I bought DN6 Nails for myself, and gave Alison (10 at the time) my old Graingers. Feeling guilty at my great pipes, I said to her.. "if you ever make it to Grade One for solos, I will get you a great set of pipes too."

Well, Alison ended up with my Nails when she was 13 - she had made it to Grade One!.. But I had stopped playing so this didn't really cost me any money..

However.. Liz, 8 at the time of my promise to Alison, originally took up side drumming.. when she was 12 Liz decided to switch to the pipes (she had been both a drummer and piper for a year)..

Last year Liz was highly motivated to get to Grade 1, because she would have her choice of pipes - she played G2 in 2001, and was the top (by a long way) Grade 2 player in the BCPA.. she was promoted to Grade One.. here we are..

A comment made to a 10 year old, has resulted in two teenage pipers here on Camano Island, with Full Silver Naills.. and a dad with a big hole where the money used to be..

But, worth it..I am very proud of them both.. (but everyone knew that)"

Regards -

Pete

Subject: RE: BS: Sometimes all ya need is a goal...
From: GUEST
Date: 22 Jan 02 - 04:00 PM

Thank you for sharing.