Uilleann Pipemaker Research Bursary
Na Píobairí Uilleann Announces the second interation of the research Bursary for Uilleann Pipemakers
The Uilleann Pipemaker Research piloted by Na Píobairí Uilleann in December 2025 will be running again in 2026.
The stated purpose of Na Píobairí Uilleann is to “promote the teaching, making, playing and cultural heritage of the uilleann pipes.” Today, there is great demand for the work of uilleann pipemakers. There has never been a greater number of people playing the pipes and uilleann pipers seeking high-quality, reliable instruments.
Bursary
The purpose of the bursary is to provide a pipemaker with the time and resources they need to conduct practical research to develop an aspect (or aspects) of their pipemaking practice.
It is envisaged that the successful applicant will spend between 2 to 4 working weeks engaged in research and development funded by the Bursary. The award will be for a maximum of €3,500.
· Applicants are required to be making uilleann pipes commercially (full-time or part-time – with a view to making on a full-time basis)
· Applicants must be a member of Na Píobairí Uilleann
Examples
The proposed research can involve any aspect(s) of the production of uilleann pipes.
Examples of possible projects funded by the Bursary:
Prototype a new chanter design based on measurements from an exemplar chanter
or
Manufacture new tooling to update an aspect of current pipemaking processes
The research will be completed by the end of September 2026. The successful candidate will be required to write a report or create a series of short videos detailing their research processes and the results of the research facilitated by the Bursary.
Application Process
Applicants are required to submit a written proposal to Na Píobairí Uilleann (maximum 400 words), via email, outlining the purpose of their research, detailing the practical steps they will take during the period funded by the bursary and the desired outcome of the research. Previously unsuccessful applicants are welcome to re-submit previously unsuccessful applications.
Applications will be assessed by a panel of three (one staff, one board member, one experienced pipemaker who has not applied).
Assessment of the applications will be based on the following criteria:
· Development of practice (will the award assist the maker in the development of their practice?)
· Quality of the proposal (is the purpose of the research of practical use?)
· Practical achievability of the proposal (can the research be completed in the time period)
Email your proposal to info@pipers.ie.
Deadline for applications is Tuesday 5th May at 5pm.
Result Communicated: Tuesday 19th May. Research to be completed by: Wednesday 30th September
If you have any questions in relation to this award, please contact info@pipers.ie or phone +353 1 873 0093.
John Butler was the first recipient of the NPU Pipemaker Research Bursary.
John has now completed the funded research and has created a video showcasing the results — including how the pipes sound.
Watch the full video to hear the outcome of his work or read the completed report here.
