Musicians gather at an international festival in Armagh dedicated to the uilleann pipes.
Uilleann pipers and players of a range of pipes from all over the world are in the Orchard County for the sixth William Kennedy Piping Festival. Piper Brian Vallely who runs the festival explains how it is named in honour of an eighteenth-century piper, pipe maker and inventor of renown from County Armagh. This festival is unique as it celebrates the interntaional diversity of the pipes as an instrument,
Piper and pipe maker Eamonn Curran explains the Armagh Pipers Club has tried to connect with traditions of pipe playing beyond Ireland.
Bands such as Planxty and The Chieftains as well as Riverdance have increased the popularity of uilleann pipes.
It is a sound that is very particular to Irish music.
Matt Seattle is a Border piper whose previous instrument was the fiddle. He describes the Border pipes as a combination of uilleann pipes and Scottish Highland bagpipes. His interest was sparked when he was researching old tunes and realised he had to play the Border pipes.
Pipers of all ages are welcome to join in any of the music sessions taking place throughout the festival. One young uilleann piper from the United States has been brought here by his parents. They credit his interest in traditional music to Davy Spillane and Riverdance.
This episode of 'Nationwide' was broadcast on 26 March 2000. The reporter is Úna Dunne.
