A conversation with Ally the Piper, the world’s most famous piping performer – Part 2

“Fame” is subjective. We define fame as widespread awareness gained through notable and exemplary achievements.

By that definition, 27-year-old Ally Crowley-Duncan – “Ally the Piper,” as millions know her worldwide – is without argument the most famous piper in the world.

That’s not to say that, in the little world of competition piping and drumming, we consider others to be more famous because of their success in competition. That’s fair.

Ultimately, it doesn’t matter. Musical achievements, whether by competitions won or by online views, likes and follows, are still achievements that deserve credit and applause.

While the persona of Ally the Piper takes quality piping, creative arrangements, and Bagpipes-101 videos to millions globally, Ally Crowley-Duncan teaches Highland piping locally. Her commitment to furthering the art of piping through publicity, performance, and education is unwavering, admirable, and undeniable.

In Part 1 of our exclusive conversation, she talked about her roots in competitive piping, the shift to performance, and how she chooses and arranges the music she makes.

In Part 2, she expresses her thoughts on where Highland piping and pipe music might be heading as an art form, her upcoming concert tour with Berklee-educated classical violinist Mia Asano, and what’s next for Ally the Piper.

We thank Ally Crowley-Duncan for taking the time to talk piping with pipes|drums.

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