The Bagpipe Society

Guide to the Hummelchen Smallpipes

One of the sets of pipes described and depicted by the Renaissance organologist, Praetorius, Michael, modern day Hummelchen (or ‘bumblebee’ pipes) has been reconstructed from these original drawings.

Mouth-blown, with one or two drones that project forwards, half-closed or Baroque recorder fingering, a nine-note scale and holes within easy reach, Hummelchen make an excellent beginner’s pipe for adults and children alike.

They have a sweet, rustic sound, as befits their name, and are particularly suitable for playing Early Music.