[BritishBulldog]

" One does not, for example, have to be an expert bagpiper in order to discern whether the pipes are being played well or badly "

1st, You have to realise that just because you don't like something, doesn't mean it's without merit. There are those who dislike Mozart, Lizst, and yes, even Justin Timberlake has his detrators. Just because he can;t appreciate this kids music doesn't make it crap.

2nd, There is no way to play the bagpipes well. Playing them badly is the art!

[ArrogantBustard]

1) Sometimes, that which is passed off as music is crap. I offer the cacophanies of John Cage as an example. The judgement of such is a different skill from that of actually composing good music. I'm well aware that in some circles, one can pretend to a certain sophistication by refusing to call crap by its right name.

2) That the Pipes are an acquired taste is not news. Mrs. Bustard, for example, professes no understanding of my fascination with them. Even so, she can recognise whether the Piper has any skill.

[hosepipe]

[ 2nd, There is no way to play the bagpipes well. Playing them badly is the art! ]

So true.. It takes an expert to know when a bagpipe is out of tune enough.. and the resonance sucks with just the right amount suck..

[Pure Country]

2nd, There is no way to play the bagpipes well. Playing them badly is the art!

Oh, I wish you hadn't said that.... Calling all FREEPER BAGPIPERS! Fill this guy in. He has obviously not heard Flames of Wrath, the 78th, Simon Fraser University, Bill Livingstone, Jack Lee, or the great Alistair Gilles in concert.