Under about 15 years old: PC1 or PC2. 16 and over: PC3 or PC4. Not sure? Send us the learner's age and we'll confirm.
By age and hand size
Smaller hands find the wider hole spacing of a full-size chanter hard to cover cleanly, which leads to squeaks and bad habits. A chanter that fits lets the learner focus on technique.
| Learner | Our suggestion | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Children, up to ~15 | McCallum PC1 or PC2 | Easier finger spacing |
| 16 and adults | McCallum PC3 or PC4 | Full-size spacing, ready for pipes |
| Some experience | A deluxe model | More refined sound and tuning |
Practice chanter sizes
| Model | Size | Note |
|---|---|---|
| PC1 | 41.5 cm | Suitable for kids |
| PC2 | 47 cm | |
| PC3 | 46.5 cm | |
| PC4 | 55.5 cm |
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McCallum PC3 Practice Chanter (Techno) RM573.00 · View
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McCallum PC4 Practice Chanter RM420.00 · View
Plastic or wood?
Plastic chanters are more durable and stand up to Malaysia's heat and humidity. Wood gives a warmer tone but needs more care. For a first chanter, most learners are best served by plastic.
What else you need
A practice chanter reed (one usually comes fitted), a spare reed, and a tutor book. The Highland Bagpipe Tutor Book 1 from the National Piping Centre is the step-by-step method most teachers use.
Bagpipe Beginner Set — from RM421.00
Beginner Bagpipe Set – College of Piping This beginner set includes everything you need...
