17 Traditional Scottish Instruments Still Used In Music Today
The sound of Scottish music is unmistakable, thanks to traditional instruments still in use today. Unveil 17 instruments that have shaped Scotland's musical heritage.
May 28, 20254.5K Shares97.8K Views
Music has always been a powerful way to tell stories, share culture, and bring people together and in Scotland, it runs deep through the hills and glens. From the haunting sound of the bagpipes echoing through the Highlands to the lively rhythm of fiddles at local ceilidhs, traditional Scottish instruments carry centuries of heritage in every note.
Each instrument has its own story, shaped by history, community, and emotion. In this article, you'll learn not just what these instruments are, but why they matter, how they’ve shaped Scotland’s identit,y and continue to inspire musicians today.
1. The Bagpipes - Scotland’s Most Iconic Instrument
When you think of Scottish music, the image of the bagpipes is almost certainly the first to come to mind. This instrument has become synonymous with Scotland, a symbol of national pride and tradition. The bagpipes have a long history, dating back over a thousand years, and their sound evokes the spirit of the Scottish Highlands.
The History Of The Bagpipes
The bagpipes are believed to have originated in the Middle East and were later brought to Europe through trade routes. The instrument evolved in Scotland over the centuries, with the Great Highland Bagpipes becoming the most iconic version. The bagpipes became deeply rooted in Scottish culture, particularly among the Highland clans, who used them in battles, funerals, and celebrations.
Types Of Bagpipes
- The Great Highland Bagpipes: The most famous type of Scottish bagpipes, renowned for their deep, powerful tone. They are primarily used in military and ceremonial events, making them a symbol of Scotland's rich traditions.
- The Lowland Bagpipes: A quieter version of bagpipes commonly used in traditional folk music. Their mellow sound makes them ideal for outdoor performances in the Lowlands, where they were historically popular.
- The Smallpipes: Designed for indoor performances, these bagpipes produce a softer, more subdued sound. They are perfect for intimate settings and solo performances, offering a different texture to Scottish music.
- Unique Sound Characteristics: The distinct drone notes paired with a melodic chanter create a haunting and mesmerizing sound that deeply resonates with Scotland's cultural soul.
2. The Fiddle - A Melody Of Scottish Heritage
The fiddle, also known as the violin in its modern form, holds a special place in Scottish folk music. It is the instrument that brings life to traditional jigs, reels, and slow airs, capturing the heart of Scottish music with its vibrant, lively tones.
The Role Of The Fiddle In Scottish Music
The fiddle’s role in Scottish music can’t be overstated. In fact, many traditional Scottish tunes are passed down and performed exclusively on the fiddle. It is a versatile instrument that can adapt to various styles, from fast-paced, foot-tapping reels to slow, emotive airs. In Scotland, fiddlers are highly respected, often accompanying dancers in ceilidhs or playing alongside other instruments in Scottish bands.
The Influence Of Regional Styles
Different regions of Scotland have their own distinct fiddle traditions, with players often specializing in the style of a particular area. For example, the fiddling traditions of the Western Isles differ from those of the Lowlands, with each style reflecting the cultural influences and local history.
Many Scottish citieshave embraced these traditions, hosting festivals and events to celebrate the vibrant music scene. Scottish fiddlers have influenced musicians worldwide, with renowned fiddlers like James Scott Skinnerand Niel Gow leaving a lasting legacy.
3. The Scottish Harp (Clarsach) - Strings Of Tradition
The clarsach, or Scottish harp, is one of the oldest stringed instruments in Scotland, and its delicate, ethereal sound evokes the country’s ancient past. Though the instrument fell out of common use for a time, it has experienced a revival in recent years, becoming a symbol of Scotland’s cultural heritage.
The History Of The Scottish Harp
The Scottish harp has roots in Celtic traditions, with historical records showing its presence in the court of Scottish kings as far back as the 12th century. Harpists were highly regarded in Scottish society, and their music often accompanied poets and storytellers. This reflects the unique Scottish traditions and customs, where music and storytelling played a central role in community life. The harp's smaller size compared to other harps made it a perfect instrument for both indoor and outdoor performances.
The Modern Clarsach
Today, the clarsach is being rediscovered by musicians who seek to preserve Scotland’s ancient music. It is played both solo and as part of folk ensembles, often featured in performances of traditional Scottish music and dance. Its soft, plucking sound adds a layer of harmony that is distinct from the brash tones of other instruments like the bagpipes.
4. The Tin Whistle And Flute
The tin whistle and flute are often used in Scottish folk music to add lightness and melody to tunes. These simple wind instruments are easy to learn but difficult to master, and they play a significant role in creating the characteristic sound of Scottish folk music.
The Role Of The Tin Whistle
The tin whistle, known for its bright and airy tone, is a popular instrument in traditional Scottish bands. It is played in various folk styles and is particularly important in Highland music, where it is used to accompany dancers and other instruments. The whistle’s portability and ease of use have made it a beloved instrument for generations of musicians.
The Scottish Flute
The flute, similar to the tin whistle, is another essential wind instrument in Scottish music. It has a fuller, richer sound and is often featured in more complex musical arrangements. Flutes were once used in military bands, but today, they are mainly associated with traditional folk music, where they add a layer of harmony and melody.
5. The Accordion
The accordion made its way to Scotland in the 19th century, and it quickly became a staple in Scottish folk music. With its ability to provide both melody and accompaniment, the accordion is an indispensable instrument in ceilidhs and folk bands.
The Role Of The Accordion
The accordion’s versatility has made it a perfect instrument for Scottish music, particularly in dances like the waltz, mazurka, and polka. Its bellows allow for expressive control, enabling musicians to create varying dynamics and a full range of sounds. The instrument’s ability to switch between melody and harmony makes it an ideal complement to other instruments, such as the fiddle or the bagpipes.
6. The Drum - The Heartbeat Of Scottish Music
Drums play a vital role in maintaining rhythm and energy in Scottish music. From the snare drum used in military settings to the bass drum in traditional bands, the drum keeps the beat steady during performances and festivals.
The Importance Of Drums
Drums are particularly prominent in Scottish marching bands and pipe bands, where they serve to accentuate the rhythm of the bagpipes. The snare drum, played with sticks, produces a sharp, crisp sound that complements the deep, resonant tones of the bagpipes. In contrast, the bass drum provides the foundational beat that drives the tempo.
7. The Scottish Guitar
The guitar has become an essential part of modern Scottish music, blending traditional sounds with contemporary styles. While it was not originally part of traditional Scottish bands, it has found its place in folk and contemporary Scottish music.
The Role Of The Guitar
The guitar’s role in Scottish music has expanded, with both acoustic and electric guitars being used in a wide range of genres. In folk music, the guitar often provides rhythmic accompaniment, while in rock and pop music, it helps create a bridge between traditional and modern Scottish sounds.
8. The Mandolin - A Stringed Delight
Though not originally from Scotland, the mandolin has woven itself into the fabric of Scottish folk music. Known for its bright, plucky sound, it brings a lively and unique flavor to folk bands, often paired with fiddles and guitars in both traditional and modern performances.
The History Of The Mandolin
The mandolin traces its roots to Italy, but it found its way into Scotland through European folk traditions. It became particularly popular in the 20th century and has since become a key instrument in Scottish folk groups, bringing a fresh twist to the country’s traditional music. Its portability and ease of playing made it a favorite for ceilidhs and festivals, adding both melody and rhythm to energetic dance tunes.
The Mandolin In Scottish Folk Music
Today, the mandolin is a staple in Scottish folk bands, its bright tones enhancing a wide variety of musical styles. Whether accompanying a fiddle or providing an intricate harmony in a string ensemble, it has become an indispensable part of Scotland’s folk music scene. Its role in blending folk with other genres, such as bluegrass, ensures its place in both traditional and contemporary Scottish music.
9. The Banjo - Rhythmic Roots
The banjo, though not native to Scotland, has become an exciting addition to the country's folk music. With its distinctive plucked sound, the banjo’s rhythmic qualities bring energy and vibrance to Scottish folk music, particularly in modern fusions with other genres.
The History Of The Banjo
The banjo originated in Africa and was introduced to the West through the Caribbean. While not originally a part of Scottish music, it was embraced by Scottish folk musicians in the 20th century. It became particularly popular in bluegrass and folk music, adding a distinct sound to the ensemble. Scottish musicians saw the potential of the banjo in creating new, hybrid musical styles, incorporating it into their own traditional sounds.
The Banjo In Modern Scottish Music
Today, the banjo is an essential part of many Scottish folk and bluegrass bands. Its bright, percussive tone is especially prominent in lively folk tunes, giving a rhythmic base to performances. The banjo's presence in Scotland has opened the door for innovative musical explorations, contributing to the evolution of folk and bluegrass styles while maintaining a connection to traditional Scottish rhythms.
10. The Uilleann Pipes - A Soft Yet Captivating Tone
The Uilleann pipesare a variation of the bagpipes, known for their softer, more melodic tone. Though more commonly associated with Ireland, they have found a place in Scottish music, especially in the Lowlands, offering a beautiful contrast to the brash tones of the Great Highland Bagpipes.
The History Of The Uilleann Pipes
The Uilleann pipes have roots in Irish musical traditions, but their influence spread to Scotland, particularly in the southern regions. Unlike the Highland bagpipes, which are played standing up, the Uilleann pipes are played sitting down and are inflated using a bellows, providing a quieter and more intimate sound. Historically, they were used in both social and ceremonial contexts, adding a refined tone to Scottish and Irish music alike.
The Uilleann Pipes In Scottish Folk Music
Today, the Uilleann pipes are still featured in both Scottish and Irish folk music, adding a subtle yet powerful atmosphere to slow melodies and ballads. Their softer tone and intricate fingering allow for a wide range of expressive playing, making them perfect for more subdued, reflective pieces. While they may not be as widely known as the Great Highland Bagpipes, the Uilleann pipes offer a unique, atmospheric sound that enriches Scotland’s musical heritage.
11. The Fife - Sharp Tones With Historic Echoes
The fife is a small, high-pitched wind instrument known for its piercing, clear sound. Though often associated with military and ceremonial music, it has also found a place in folk traditions across Europe and the Caribbean. With a tone similar to the piccolo, the fife brings sharp melodic accents to both solo and ensemble performances.
The History Of The Fife
The fife traces its roots back to medieval Europe, where it became popular in military units and marching bands. Its name comes from the German word Pfeife, meaning “pipe,” which evolved from the Latin pipare, referring to a whistling or chirping sound. Over time, the instrument became central to fife and drum corps and was especially valued for its ability to cut through the noise of battlefields and parades. Traditionally, fifes were diatonically tuned with six finger holes, allowing players to perform scale-based melodies suited to outdoor events and marching rhythms.
The Fife In Folk And World Music
While the fife is most known for its military use, it has long been a part of folk traditions, especially in Celtic regions. In Caribbean music, for example, bamboo fifes are commonly used, blending naturally into the rhythms of local genres. In these settings, the fife’s bright and lively tone provides both melody and rhythmic drive, often accompanied by drums or string instruments. Its role in folk music continues to evolve, bridging traditional tunes with modern interpretations.
12. The Cittern - Strings Of The Scottish Renaissance
The cittern is a historical plucked string instrument that brought brightness and character to the soundscape of Renaissance and Baroque-era Scotland. Known for its pear-shaped body and wire strings, the cittern added a distinct metallic resonance to gatherings and musical performances. Though its popularity peaked between the 16th and 18th centuries, the instrument still echoes through Scotland’s traditional music history.
The History Of The Cittern
The cittern evolved from earlier medieval instruments such as the citole and became widespread in 16th-century Europe, including Scotland. It featured four courses of wire strings, often tuned in unison pairs, and a shallow, pear-shaped body with an asymmetrical neck, thicker at the treble end to support higher tension strings. Unlike the lute, which had gut strings and a round back, the cittern was more robust and brighter in tone, making it ideal for ensemble and solo playing.
The Cittern In Early Scottish Music
While the cittern may not be as synonymous with Scottish music as the fiddle or bagpipes, it was widely played in 17th-century Scotland, especially in domestic settings. Surviving musical manuscripts show that it was part of the musical life of literate musicians and amateur players alike.
Two important sources reflect its use and teaching in Scotland:
- Robert Edwards’ Commonplace Book:a personal compilation of musical works that includes cittern arrangements.
- The Millan/Macalman Manuscripts:containing transcriptions of Scottish tunes, including the iconic “Flowers of the Forest”, demonstrating the cittern’s role in expressing both sorrow and storytelling.
Both Robert Edwards and Alexander Macalman (sometimes spelled Mackalman) were Scottish musicians who documented cittern playing, suggesting a uniquely Scottish approach to the instrument.
The Cittern’s Modern Influence
Though the cittern faded from widespread use by the 19th century, it has seen a modern revival in Scottish folk music, especially in historically informed performances. Contemporary musicians and instrument makers have drawn inspiration from its distinctive tone, using it to reinterpret old ballads and dances.
Its influence continues in modern adaptations, such as the flat-back bouzouki and octave mandolin, which share both shape and playing techniques with the cittern. These instruments are now a staple in Scottish and Irish folk bands, carrying the legacy of the cittern into the present.
13. The Oaten Pipe - A Whistle Of The Fields
The oaten pipe is a simple yet charming wind instrument, traditionally made from the hollow straw of the oat plant. Known for its soft, reedy sound and rustic roots, this instrument is deeply tied to the rural life and pastoral imagery of both English and Scottish culture. Though rare today, the oaten pipe once carried the melodies of the countryside, offering a glimpse into early folk traditions.
The History Of The Oaten Pipe
The name “oaten pipe” appears in English literature and historical records as far back as the 18th and 19th centuries. The instrument is described in an 1898 dictionary as the most basic form of reed pipe: a single piece of oat straw with a small strip cut near a natural knot to form a vibrating reed. This minimal design reflects its origins in rural communities, where young boys would craft them by hand using materials readily available in the fields.
The Oaten Pipe As A Folk Instrument
While many oaten pipes were no more than rustic noisemakers or bird-call tools, some versions featured several fingerholes, allowing the player to produce a rudimentary melody. These more advanced designs suggest the instrument had greater musical potential than often assumed. In Scottish tradition, the oaten pipe was sometimes used by boys as a musical toy, offering early exposure to wind instruments. Musicologists have noted that it may have even served as a primitive practice chanter, helping young players learn fingering techniques before progressing to the more complex bagpipes.
14. The Gittern - Medieval Strings
The Gittern was one of the earliest known stringed instruments to appear in medieval Scotland. Although not to be confused with the cittern, zither, or modern guitar, it shares many features with them. Its small, rounded body and plucked strings made it a central part of courtly music and early folk traditions across the country.
The History Of The Gittern
The Gittern emerged in Europe as early as the 13th century and found a place in Scottish music not long after. It served as a forerunner to today’s guitar and was typically carved from a single piece of wood. This instrument was popular in noble circles and among travelling musicians. In Scotland, it remained in use for roughly 300 years, suggesting it played an important role in shaping early string music traditions in the region.
The Gittern In Traditional Scottish Music
Although the Gittern eventually faded from common use, its influence can still be felt in the evolution of plucked string instruments in Scotland. The techniques and musical styles played on the Gittern laid a foundation for the later use of the cittern and guitar in Scottish folk music. While not commonly used today, it represents a key chapter in Scotland’s musical heritage
15. The Bodhrán - Celtic Pulse
The bodhrán brings a deep, earthy rhythm to traditional Celtic music. Though originally from Ireland, this frame drum made its way into Scottish folk scenes, especially during the 20th-century folk revival. Its haunting resonance and percussive drive make it a compelling heartbeat in many traditional ensembles today.
The History Of The Bodhrán
The bodhrán was first mentioned in the 17th century and likely originated in 18th-century southwest Ireland. Known historically as the “poor man’s tambourine,” it was crafted from farm tools and lacked jingles. It became popular in rural festivals and parades, especially among mummers and wren boys. One of the earliest visual records is a large Halloween scene painted by Irish artist Daniel Maclise in the 1800s, where the bodhrán is clearly visible.
The Bodhrán In Scottish Folk Music
The bodhrán didn’t reach Scottish and Cape Breton folk circles until the 1960s, popularised by the music of Seán Ó Riada. Once introduced, it quickly became a favourite among Scottish folk performers for its deep, rolling tone and rhythmic versatility. Today, it is used across Scottish traditional groups, adding texture and grounding the melodies with a strong Celtic pulse.
16. The Dulcitone - Tuning Fork Tones From Glasgow
The dulcitone is a unique keyboard instrument created in Scotland in the 19th century. Known for its gentle, bell-like sound, the dulcitone stands apart from the piano by using tuning forksinstead of strings. It became popular for its portability and reliability, never going out of tune due to the nature of its sound-producing mechanism.
The History Of The Dulcitone
The dulcitone was invented in 1864 by Thomas Machell of Glasgow, Scotland, and was manufactured by Thomas Machell & Sons during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Unlike traditional pianos, which use taut strings, the dulcitone has tuning forks struck by felt-covered hammers via a keyboard. This innovative design gave it a consistent, mellow tone that remained in tune regardless of weather or travel conditions.
The instrument covered a range of five octaves and could play up to 61 notes. Early models were sharp in pitch, but refinements like action suspension via leaf springs made later models more stable and softer in tone. Despite its clever design, the dulcitone’s low volume became its main limitation.
The Dulcitone In Practice And Modern Music
In the 19th century, the dulcitone was embraced by missionary communities, particularly for religious hymns in remote regions such as South Africa. Its lightweight design and quiet operation made it ideal for travel and intimate gatherings.
Today, modern musicians are revisiting the dulcitone’s ethereal tones by amplifying its output using microphones and electronic gear. This has brought the instrument back into the contemporary Scottish folk and ambient scenes, where its pure tone provides a dreamy counterpoint to stringed and wind instruments.
17. The Stock And Horn - A Shepherd’s Song
The Stock and Horn is a traditional Scottish wind instrument often associated with rural life and the music of common folk. With its simple design and expressive tone, it served as a voice for the Scottish countryside, particularly among shepherds and villagers.
The History Of The Stock And Horn
The Stock and Horn is built from a wooden body (stock) with seven finger holes on the front and one on the back, used for melody control. It ends in a horn bell, and the sound is produced by blowing into an oaten reed. This combination gives the instrument a soft, reedy tone with rustic charm.
The most vivid description of the instrument comes from Robert Burns, Scotland’s national poet, in a letter to George Thomson, a music editor. Burns had a deep affection for the instrument, often referencing it in his writing to highlight the simplicity and emotional depth of Scottish rural music.
The Stock And Horn In Scottish Culture
The instrument was primarily used by herdsmen and rural musicians, passed down through generations as a folk instrument rather than a concert piece. While it didn’t survive widespread into modern times, its legacy lives on in Scottish poetry and music history.
Efforts by traditional music scholars and historical instrument makers have helped preserve and revive the Stock and Horn, with occasional reconstructions appearing in historically informed performances and Scottish heritage events.
The Influence Of Traditional Scottish Music
1. Folk And Celtic Traditions Worldwide
Scottish music, with its use of instruments like bagpipes, fiddles, and harps, has contributed to the global Celtic music movement. Countries with Celtic roots, such as Ireland, Canada, and Australia, have adopted and adapted Scottish tunes, creating shared traditions that celebrate a common heritage.
2. Shaping Modern Genres
The storytelling nature of Scottish ballads has influenced modern folk, country, and even rock music. Bands such as Led Zeppelin and Jethro Tull have drawn inspiration from traditional Scottish themes and melodies, weaving them into contemporary music.
3. Cultural Exports And Diaspora
Scottish immigrants brought their music to North America and beyond, where it merged with local traditions, helping to shape bluegrass and Appalachian music. The distinctive sound of the bagpipes, in particular, has become symbolic in military ceremonies and commemorations worldwide.
4. Reviving And Innovating Traditions
In recent decades, Scottish musicians have revitalized traditional music, blending it with modern elements like electronic beats and jazz. This innovation has introduced new audiences to Scotland's rich musical legacy while keeping its traditions alive for future generations.
Traditional Scottish music remains a cultural ambassador, connecting people through its timeless melodies and evolving influence. Let's discuss the scottish music instruments in detail below.
Where To See And Hear These Instruments Today
1. Festivals And Highland Games
Major events like the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo, Celtic Connections in Glasgow, and the Hebridean Celtic Festival offer rich showcases of bagpipes, fiddles, clàrsaichean, and more. These gatherings often feature both traditional and contemporary musicians, giving you a wide-ranging experience of Scottish music culture.
2. Folk Music Pubs And Live Sessions
In cities like Edinburgh, Inverness, and Aberdeen, folk pubs host weekly live music nights. Places such as Sandy Bell’s (Edinburgh) or Hootananny (Inverness) are great spots to hear fiddles, whistles, accordions, and sometimes even smallpipes in an authentic setting.
3. Ceilidh Dances
Nothing beats a live ceilidh to hear these instruments in their natural habitat. These social dances are a staple of weddings, community events, and festivals. The live bands usually feature fiddles, accordions, and bodhráns driving the dance rhythms.
4. Museums And Cultural Centers
Institutions like the National Museum of Scotland and the Scottish Crannog Centre often feature historical displays of musical instruments. Some also offer audio exhibits or occasional live performances.
5. Music Schools And Workshops
For those wanting a hands-on experience, Scotland offers music schools and summer workshops for traditional instruments. The Royal Conservatoire of Scotland and folk music initiatives like Feis Rois provide programs that support new generations of musicians.
Whether you're listening in a grand stadium or a small pub, these instruments remain central to Scotland's soundscape still as stirring, soulful, and alive as ever.
People Also Ask
What Is Traditional Scottish Music Called?
Scotland is world-renowned for its traditional music, sometimes referred to as folk music, and its origins can be traced back thousands of years. Today, this music remains just as popular and culturally relevant as it has ever been.
Who Is The Greek God Of Instruments?
As the god of mousike, Apollo presides over all music, songs, dance, and poetry. He is the inventor of string music and the frequent companion of the Muses, functioning as their chorus leader in celebrations. The lyre is a common attribute of Apollo.
What’s The Difference Between Bagpipes And Smallpipes?
Smallpipes are quieter and better suited for indoor playing, while Highland bagpipes are louder and often played outdoors.
Who Invented Bagpipes?
Some historians believe that bagpipes originate from ancient Egypt and were brought to Scotland by invading Roman Legions. Others maintain that the instrument was brought over the water by the colonising Scots tribes from Ireland.
Are Scottish Instruments Difficult To Learn?
Some Scottish instruments, like the bagpipes, require significant dedication and practice to master. Others, like the tin whistle or spoons, are relatively easier to learn.
Final Thoughts
Scotland’s traditional instruments aren’t just relics of the past, they’re living, breathing parts of its culture. They play at weddings and festivals, in village halls and grand arenas, telling stories that words alone can’t express.
If you're a music lover, a curious traveler, or someone with Scottish roots, these instruments offer a powerful connection to a rich and enduring heritage. Keep your ears open, you never know when the sound of a fiddle or the call of the pipes might transport you straight into the heart of Scotland.
Jump to
1. The Bagpipes - Scotland’s Most Iconic Instrument
2. The Fiddle - A Melody Of Scottish Heritage
3. The Scottish Harp (Clarsach) - Strings Of Tradition
4. The Tin Whistle And Flute
5. The Accordion
6. The Drum - The Heartbeat Of Scottish Music
7. The Scottish Guitar
8. The Mandolin - A Stringed Delight
9. The Banjo - Rhythmic Roots
10. The Uilleann Pipes - A Soft Yet Captivating Tone
11. The Fife - Sharp Tones With Historic Echoes
12. The Cittern - Strings Of The Scottish Renaissance
13. The Oaten Pipe - A Whistle Of The Fields
14. The Gittern - Medieval Strings
15. The Bodhrán - Celtic Pulse
16. The Dulcitone - Tuning Fork Tones From Glasgow
17. The Stock And Horn - A Shepherd’s Song
The Influence Of Traditional Scottish Music
Where To See And Hear These Instruments Today
People Also Ask
Final Thoughts
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