Why bagpipes?
-James Hogg, Scottish poet (1770-1835)
The war pipes of my ancestors the Kerrs were nowhere to be heard among the fiddles and banjos of the Ozark Mountains, where I spent my childhood. When out of left field my father presented me with the idea of taking up bagpipes to make a living, the best instructor we could find for me was a small paperback manual by the College of Piping. By carefully mirroring the photos within, I inadvertently taught myself to play bagpipes in reverse, just as a left-handed person would.
Eventually, I would need a credentialed instructor to help me produce truly beautiful music. Bagpipes are finicky and demanding — it takes precise technique and extensive knowledge of the instrument to wrangle all four reeds into a harmonious choir. In 2006, I enrolled in the North American Academy of Piping and Drumming, receiving 4 semesters of intensive training from world-champion pipers. In 2010, the Midwest Highland Arts Fund awarded me an exclusive scholarship to study pipes in Italy (under Scottish instructors, of course).
It has been my pleasure to play for a surprising variety of events over the years, including televised ones (e.g.: three consecutive years of PGA opening ceremonies).
To Christ be the glory for bestowing on me my natural talent, providing my education and work, and holding me up with His sustaining hand throughout my piping career.
