Cleek Schrey

ghost study for uilleann pipes

2013

Ghost Study is named for a trio I play in with the uilleann piper, Ivan Goff, and the singer, Iarla Ó Lionaírd. The piece illuminates aspects of Ivan’s incredible instrument

through the amplification and subtle alterations in air pressure.

The notated pitches, though mostly unheard, cycle through familiar finger combinations

as found in actual or hypothetical Irish tunes. It is constructed so as to assist the

performer in executing a familiar set of patterns while moving through other less familiar

techniques. The instrument never reaches enough air pressure as to fully sound a note,

so the player must navigate a treacherous line between air and pitch.

Pressure Key :

= no air from chanter, only bellows.

= some air;; not enough for pitch to sound.

= slightly more air, on the threshold of when pitch begins to speak.

Microphone notes :

2 microphones are needed. One microphone is placed above the chanter to amplify the

key clicks.

A small condenser mic is player inside of the chanter.

Performer on the recording:

Ivan Goff, uilleann pipes