How to free up left forearm

[JB on the rocks]

In response to previous threads dealing with slipping bags, blowpipe length, bag size, etc. I have taken steps to find the proper fit for my instrument. I have moved to a medium bannatyne hide/synthetic bag and a shorter adjustable blow-pipe.

I play a heavy instrument, but I maintain suggested posture and blowing methods. Despite this the bag continues to slip down against my inner forearm more than I would like. Am I searching for eutopia, does everyone run into this problem to some extent, or could a change in playing technique help?

I am interested obtaining any advice experienced pipers can provide regarding proper holding, blowing or playing technique that could help me out.

[acadianpiper]

It sounds as though you might need a smaller bag. An extended small Bannatyne might work better for you.

[EquusRacer]

I agree with acadianpiper.

[Mr. Woolery]

I use L&M's "hot dog" bag - an extended small leather bag. I'm not a small guy (5'11" and 47" chest), but the bag fits well and isn't giving any substantial pressure to my forearm. I have no intention to ever play anything else.

Another thought, though it is pretty cheesy and may not be the best thing for you, is to make a custom bag cover out of very stout material. My first (borrowed) set of pipes had a cover that was much smaller than the actual bag. The bag could not fully inflate, but filled out to the exact shape of the cover and was quite comfy. If you get some denim or trigger at a fabric store, you can make a bag cover that cuts away where you have forearm issues and slip that over the bag before putting back your regular velvet or corduroy cover. At worst, you are out $5 and an hour on the sewing machine. (No need to do the pretty bits up the stocks, just cut holes for them and whip-stitch the edges so they don't fray.) Lots cheaper than getting another new bag that you still are not sure would work. And in the end you find out exactly what shape would work best for you, so that when you do get another bag you already know what to look for.

-Patrick

[Mike Lynch]

It sounds as though you might need a smaller bag. An extended small Bannatyne might work better for you.

I agree. I switched from a Medium Bannatyne to an Extended Small and the fit (for me) is better. I also had a Dycem patch sewn to my bag cover to prevent slipping.

[JRM]

Yo say that the bag "slips down". I would suggest shortening your adjustable blowpipe further before purchasing anything else. This will pull generally the chanter up and center it on your body more. Secondly, it's common for people to think of playing the pipes as blowing and then squeezing and then blowing. You should not be "releasing" pressure from your arm so much as you should be pushing it back out when refilling the bag. Breathe often so as not to deplete it so much if that becomes a comfort issue. If the bag does not deflate quite so much, you should experience less slippage. A loose fitting bag cover is another major cause of bag slippage. It should be snug when played.

[Mike Lynch]

Yo say that the bag "slips down". I would suggest shortening your adjustable blowpipe further before purchasing anything else. This will pull generally the chanter up and center it on your body more.

It's also possible that the blow pipe is too short (pulling the bag more to the chest instead of under the arm). This was an issue I had until I saw a picture from a parade. I knew something was wrong, but I just couldn't figure out what. Lengthening my adjustable blowpipe did the trick for me.

[David Corbett]

don't forget to check the fit of the bag cover. if it's excessively loose, slippage can occur.

[oldsoldier]

You dont need to invest in dycem. Go to a $1 store, get drawer liner material (its like a rubbery substance), and sew it on yourself. It cost me all of $0.49 and 20 mins of sewing time for it, and works fine.
I may try a smaller bag though...I seem to struggle with my current bag, and it feels too large. I am only 5'6", but have a 46" chest. my canmore medium bag may be too big.

[burp birl]

I've heard mention a few times on several Dunsire Threads that the shape of the Monarch bag will free up the left forearm. I've never played a Monarch bag though so can't speak through experience but those who have say they love their Monarch bags because of this.

Jenni