We are the 'Making and Playing Bamboo Pipes' group, one of 30 groups organised by Crawley U3A.  We have about 12 members of the group, with varied playing ability.

All members make their own pipes.  Patsy holds making sessions in her home in Crawley.  Some knowledge of music is very desirable.   The cost of materials (bamboo & cork) for your first pipe is £3.75.  You will also need a music stand, and be prepared to buy music and instruction books. Some sharing of the conducting or 'counting in' is encouraged, as is any music that members provide. If you are interested, come along and borrow a treble pipe until your own pipe is made (with lots of help).  It's an ideal hobby for the '3rd Age', combining things to do at home - making, decorating, and practicing - with the social and creative side, as we make music together twice a month.

We meet to play on the 1st and 3rd Thursdays in the month, at 2 pm at Furnace Green Community Centre, Crawley.  For further information, contact This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it , Tel: 01293 526734.

To take part, you have first to join the Crawley U3A, (£8.50 per year), and then pay 80p per session (paid in advance).  This also gives you access to all the U3A activities.

Islington Pipers meet intermittently but always on Saturdays 10am - 2pm at Stephens Ink Community Centre, Tannington Terrace, Gillespie Road, N5 1LR. The centre is just round the corner from the Arsenal Underground station (Piccadilly line). These are chiefly playing opportunities though sometimes help is available for pipe making. Beginners are very welcome.

To check when the next meeting is to be held please email Imogen McGavin.

The London Branch has met regularly since 1948 and now in reality covers South - East England. It arranges 3-4 playing days a year in a variety of settings. Players of all skill levels are warmly welcomed in this small, friendly group.

For further information please contact Imogen McGavin.

We welcome new participants of all ages. Our lively group has weekly playing meetings in Edinburgh. Currently, meetings are held in members' homes on Monday mornings from 10 a.m. - 12 p.m.

Making and decorating sessions are held as required for existing participants but also particularly for those new to this threefold activity of making, decorating and playing bamboo pipes. You do not need musical and/or craft experience, though this is of course helpful; full guidance will be provided by Dorothy Senior who can be contacted by telephone 0131 441 2002 or email.