1. Origin: Bagpipes originated in Scotland and are widely associated with Celtic music, while uilleann pipes are of Irish origin and are a prominent part of Irish traditional music.
2. Number of Pipes: Bagpipes typically have three pipes - a chanter, a tenor, and a drone - while uilleann pipes have four pipes - a chanter, two regulators, and a drone.
3. Sound: The sound of bagpipes is characterized by a continuous drone, which provides a constant background to the melody played on the chanter. Uilleann pipes, on the other hand, have a more varied and expressive sound due to the regulators and the ability to play chords.
4. Bellows: Bagpipes rely on a bellows to provide a continuous supply of air, and this bellows is typically located under the player's arm. Uilleann pipes, however, use bellows that are connected to the instrument, allowing for greater flexibility in playing techniques and a wider range of dynamics.
5. Keys and Tuning: Bagpipes are non-transposing instruments, meaning they produce the same pitch as they are written. Uilleann pipes are transposing instruments and typically play in the key of D or C.
6. Playing Position: Bagpipes are played standing or marching, with the instrument cradled in the player's arms and the windbag supported by their arm or a strap. Uilleann pipes are typically played seated, with the bellows placed between the player's legs.
7. Complexity: Uilleann pipes are considered to be technically more complex than bagpipes due to the regulators and the use of keys, which allow for greater control over the instrument's sound and range.
Overall, while both bagpipes and uilleann pipes are aerophones that produce sound through the vibration of reeds, they have distinct differences in terms of origin, number of pipes, sound, playing techniques, and overall complexity.