A professor at my university offers free lessons as a way to recruit for the local pipe band, the only requirement being that you have to gradually buy the entire ensemble as you get better at the instrument. It can be a two- or three-year process, so the expense isn't so unbearable.
Maybe a band in your area has a similar service. All you need to get started is the chanter, which will run you about $70.
"Nonstopdrivel" wrote: