Atholl Highlanders — Bagpipe Sheet Music
Time Signature: 2/4 | Key: Two sharps (standard bagpipe key)
The Atholl Highlanders is a well-known 2/4 march that appears frequently in pipe band competitions and events. It is a march in the classical style and is useful for working on doubling technique.
Tune Structure
The Atholl Highlanders is a 32-bar march in two 16-bar sections. Both sections make use of doublings throughout.
Note Sequence Guide
Section A: D E D E | F E D E | F High G High A . | High A High G E D | E F E D | E D B D | E D B Low A | Low A . . . | Section B: E High G High A High G | High A High G E D | B D E D | B D E High G | High A . High G E | F E D B | D E D B | Low A . . . |
Tips for Learning This Tune
- The D–E–D–E opening figure is used throughout. Work on smooth transitions between D and E, as the Grace note placement here is critical.
- Section B rises to High A early. Make sure your blowing is steady before attempting this at tempo.
- This tune is good for practicing doublings on D and E.