Preserving and promoting the tradition of Irish piping in British Columbia

First meeting of the BC Uilleann Pipers' Society (BCUPS)
The beginning of BCUPS — our first gathering of uilleann pipers and friends.

BC Uilleann Pipers' Society

Celebrating the tradition of uilleann piping in British Columbia

About BCUPS

Established in 1999, the British Columbia Uilleann Pipers' Society serves as a resource for uilleann pipers throughout British Columbia. We are dedicated to the study, preservation, and performance of the Irish bellows-blown bagpipes through gatherings, workshops, and community events.

The BC Uilleann Pipers' Society promotes and supports Irish traditional music across British Columbia. Based in the Abbotsford and Vancouver area, our members gather for monthly sessions, workshops, and piping events. Whether you play the uilleann pipes, tin whistle, or other melody instruments, we welcome all musicians and enthusiasts interested in the heritage of Irish music in Canada.

UNESCO & Intangible Heritage

Uilleann piping, often referred to as "The Sound of Ireland," was officially inscribed on the UNESCO Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity in December 2017.

What are the Uilleann Pipes?

The Uilleann pipes are the traditional bellows-blown bagpipes of Ireland, renowned for their rich tone, expressive range, and remarkable musical subtlety. Unlike the Scottish Highland pipes, the Uilleann pipes are played seated and powered by a small bellows strapped to the player's arm, allowing the instrument to produce a sweeter, more intimate sound.

The name "uilleann" is traditionally associated with the Irish word for elbow, reflecting the use of the elbow-operated bellows that power the instrument. The exact origin of the term remains a matter of discussion among scholars and pipers. The instrument consists of a bag, chanter, drones, and regulators, which together allow the piper to play melody, harmony, and rhythm simultaneously.

Often regarded as one of the most sophisticated forms of bagpipes in the world, the Uilleann pipes are central to Irish traditional music and are capable of great emotional depth—from lively dance tunes to slow airs filled with expression and ornamentation. Their distinctive voice has shaped the sound of Irish music for centuries and continues to inspire musicians and audiences around the world today.

Getting Started with the Uilleann Pipes

The uilleann pipes are a beautiful and complex instrument with a rich history and a unique voice. To help ensure this tradition remains vibrant and accessible across British Columbia, the Society is pleased to offer our Pipes-for-Loan Program.

To join the waiting list for a loan set, please contact the Society using the contact information at the bottom of this page.

Acquiring a quality set of pipes is often the greatest hurdle for a new player. This program helps remove that barrier by giving those interested in learning the opportunity to experience the instrument firsthand before making a significant financial commitment.

Unlike many instruments, the uilleann pipes are modular and can be expanded as a player develops their skills. Most beginners start with a Practice Set, which consists of:

Once proficiency with a Practice Set is achieved, drones and regulators can be added, allowing the player to progress toward a full set.

Upcoming Events

Monthly sessions, workshops, performances, and special events will be listed here.

Resources

The British Columbia Uilleann Pipers Society is pleased to share these resources with pipers, musicians, and anyone interested in learning more about the uilleann pipes and Irish traditional music.

Uilleann Piping Organizations

Learning Resources

Contact the Society

Interested in learning more about uilleann piping, joining the Society, or participating in our Pipes-for-Loan Program? We'd love to hear from you.

Email: bc_ups@hotmail.com