Booking Questions
What is covered in the cost of the weekend?
- Access to 3 full days of expert bagpipe workshops
- Printed music pack
- Lunch provided each day
- Teas/coffees with light snacks through-out the day
- Admission to evening tutor recital on Saturday 7th November (additional recital tickets for friends and family can be purchased separately online)
Who is this workshop for?
This workshop is open to all bagpipers worldwide who wish to travel to Antwerp to enjoy 3 full days of learning, alongside building friendships through music all to the backdrop of one of Europes most beautiful cities.
What makes this workshop different?
Fully tailor your workshop experience! Each piper attending can choose the workshops they wish to attend from the schedule. Several workshops will run at the same time, meaning you can choose your favourite subject. Workshops will often be repeated so you do not miss out on any that you wish to attend. This structure allows you to fully tailor your experience.
Will I be good enough to attend?
If you own a set of bagpipes then YES! There will be various workshops running at the same time. This means you can choose the workshop that interests you most, best reflecting your level and your piping interests in the areas you wish to learn most and improve on.
Is this suitable for complete beginners?
No, it is recommend you have made some progress on the practice chanter, can play several tunes and have spent a little time on the bagpipes. A little knowledge is needed ideally. If you are unsure please contact us to discuss further for your own confidence.
Is there a minimum and maximum age?
We recommend pipers aged 8 to 108!
How many places are available?
There are a limited number of places. To secure your space register today!
How do I book my place?
Click 'Register' and add your workshop ticket to the basket. Follow payment instructions to secure your space today!
How much does it cost to attend?
- Adult cost to attend workshop €449
- Adult cost to attend workshop who are members of Vlamo €399
- Under 18 years of age cost to attend workshop €299
Can I pay on the day?
No, we require all attendees to register prior to the workshop starting
What is your cancellation/refund policy?
14 days full refund is offered from date of purchase. 50% is offered up to 30 days prior to workshop. 0% refund is offered after this time line, though you can transfer your workshop ticket to someone else to ensure the space is used and enjoyed.
Musical Content Questions
What will I learn?
A full list of subjects is on the home page of this website. There will be several workshops/masterclasses running at the same time, meaning you can chose the classes and topics that most interest you, tailoring your workshop weekend to personal taste. There will be several levels offered to so you can learn at the speed that suits you best. For example, you can chose from the following;
- Beginner 2/4 March playing
- Intermediate 2/4 March playing
- Advanced 2/4 March playing
Will there be one-to-one coaching?
No, this is set to be small groups. Learning from each other and the instructor whilst enjoying the social aspect of group learning is a real highlight of such a workshop. There will be plenty of moments in the day to ask those one to one piping questions during breaks and lunch etc.
Will music be provided?
Yes, a printed music pack will be provided.
Do I need to prepare anything before hand?
No, you do not need to learn any tunes prior. The music pack will be used as a guide to discuss topics.
Will there be different ability groups?
Yes, and you can choose which group you feel most comfortable in. For example, you may be a very confident light music player and wish to push yourself in the advanced MSR classes. You may also have an interest in Piobaireachd but with less confidence, therefore you can chose the beginner or intermediate Piobaireachd class.
My pipes are not playing well, should I still come?
Yes, this is a perfect reason to come and to improve your bagpipes!
Will there be opportunities to perform?
Yes, on the last day we will play together under the direction of Field Marshal Montgomery Pipe Major Matt Wilson Stand in the circle and feel what it is like to play for the leader of Northern Ireland's most successful Pipe Band ever.
I am nervous about playing in front of others.
Many attendees feel the same. The workshop is designed to be friendly and supportive, with plenty of opportunities to learn at your own pace without pressure.
Can I record the sessions?
Short clips for personal practice are usually fine. Please ask tutor before recording entire sessions.
Will there be opportunities to ask questions?
Certainly! Whether it is during the workshop, at the end as a session wraps up or during a break there will be plenty of time to ask those all important piping questions!
Will the workshop be taught in English or another language?
English will be the main language over the weekend. There will be Flemish, Dutch and French speakers on hand should any translation be needed.
Equipment Questions
What should I bring?
Bagpipes, practice chanter, maintenance items, pen, paper, medication and personal snacks if wished. Kilt uniform is needed if you wish to take part in the dress, drill and deportment workshop hosted by former Royal Scots Dragoon Guards Pipe Major Ben Duncan on Sunday 8th.
Will there be help with tuning and maintenance?
Yes, both of these important areas will be covered in great detail.
Will reed and accessories be available to buy?
Yes, a pre-order form will be sent should you wish to order items and a small selection will be available over the workshop weekend
Logistics Questions
Where is this workshop taking place?
Groenhout Kasteel, Kasteelstraat 17, 2000 Antwerpen, Belgium.
What time does the workshop start and finish?
Daily times are 9am to 5pm. The Saturday evening recital starts at 8pm.
What should I wear?
Comfy clothes are encouraged each day. Kilt uniform is only needed if you wish to take part in the dress, drill and deportment workshop hosted by former Royal Scots Dragoon Guards Pipe Major Ben Duncan on Sunday 8th.
Is lunch included?
Yes, a buffet lunch is provided each day. If you have any dietary requirements please be sure to contact us early in advance. If you have any special tastes you are also welcome to bring your own lunch to supplement the offering available.
Are refreshments provided?
Yes, refreshments will be provided daily. These breaks are a perfect time to ask those extra piping questions to the tutors too!
Is parking available?
Yes, paid parking is available close to the school
Is the venue accessible?
If you have any accessibility concerns please contact us prior for confidence
How do I get there by public transport?
The school is a two minute walk from tram stop Antwerpen Montigny.
Are the nearby hotels?
Yes, there are number of hotels and accommodation options nearby.
International Visitor Questions
What currency can I pay in?
All payment is in Euros
Are there nearby airports?
Antwerp, Eindhoven, Brussels and Brussels Charleroi are all within distance to Antwerp
Is the venue close to train stations?
Yes, when travelling internationally Antwerp Central is your main hub train station to aim for. From there, tram is the best way to travel to venue.
Recital Questions
Do I need to come to the workshop to attend the evening recital?
No, you can purchase a ticket just for the recital. You do not have to play the bagpipes or attend the full workshop to attend and enjoy the recital.
Do you need tickets for the recital?
Yes, this is a ticketed event. You can purchase tickets for friends and family online. If you are attending the workshop weekend you gain free access to the recital.
Tickets: All tickets are electronic only. Please bring your email receipt as proof of purchase.
Price: All tickets are priced at €19.99. There are no concession prices for this event and no age limits to attend.
Where is the recital on Saturday 7th November taking place?
Zaal De Volkslust, Van Heybeeckstraat 26, 2170, Merksem, Antwerpen.
What time is the recital on Saturday 7th November?
Doors open at 7pm. Recital starts at 8pm.
Have we missed anything? Please contact us if you have any additional questions.