*What is the PDQB? And what does it have to do with me?  

Beginning in 2006, Scottish bagpipe education centers such as the National Piping Centre, the Piobaireachd Society, the RSPBA, the College of Piping, and the Army School of Piping, got together and developed a single certification framework for bagpipers to recognize their progress of learning and to guide their development.

This project and partnership came together under the title of the “Piping and Drumming Qualifications Board” (PDQB).  

Today, the PDQB structure has been integrated fully into the Scottish education system - which is widely known throughout Scotland… But!

What most people don’t know is that these exams aren’t just for people learning the pipes in the UK. They are available world-wide.  

The only challenge up to this point has been - 

...where do I go to learn how to prepare for these certifications, and, then how do I get examined?  

Well, here at the Dojo, we’ve worked hard to solve both of these issues. First, we created seven complete “PDQB prep courses,” that guide pipers through all of the information they need to be prepared for all of the PDQB certification levels, from beginner all the way through to bagpipe mastery.  

From there, we offer our prep-course-students exact instructions as to how to officially undertake their PDQB examinations - a process that includes performance and written-exam components.  

Now that the PDQB structure has been clearly laid out for you, all that’s left is to dive in - and trust me, it’s not as “scary” as it seems. You’re going to do great. 

So, why should I be interested in the PDQB certifications? 

I admit, when I first heard about the PDQB exams, I asked myself…. "Yeah? So what?"  

But the more I thought about it, and read the material, and before long I could cearly see the benefits...  

Play to an internationally recognized standard  

Whether you’re just starting out, you’re already an accomplished piper, or, most commonly - you’re somewhere in the middle -- how do you know what level you're really at? What are my strengths and weaknesses, and what should I really be focusing on at my level? 

The PDQB structure is an amazing compass for this sort of question because it provides a clear pathway forward, building on each level that came before. With the PDQB certification process, you focus your pratice so that you can measure your improvement along the way. 

Focus your practice and improvement; have a clear pathway…  

Once you have an idea of where you are in the process, the path forward is pretty clear based on the PDQB syllabus for each level, both in terms of knowledge and demonstration of proficiency.  

Now, with our Dojo University PDQB prep courses, you can have complete, well organized details about each and every topic at your fingertips. Further, the prep courses lay out exactly what you'll need to do to attain that next internationally recognized level of play. 

Fill in gaps in bagpipe knowledge  

Here’s a GREAT reason these certifications are so important -- How often have you met a pretty darn good piper who can’t read music?!?! Or, a pretty darn knowledgeable piper who doesn’t really play all that well?

These big “gaps” of knowledge/ability that many pipers have ultimately need to be ironed out to avoid hitting that “wall” where they stop getting any better.  

The PDQB structure helps by providing a well-rounded approach to our bagpiping learning, a little bit at a time, as we work our way up through the certification structure.

Stuck in a rut as a piper? Take the PDQBs!  

Similarly, if you’re already “stuck” with your piping and don’t know where to turn to really rejuvenate yourself and your playing, the PDQB exams are a great option for you.  

Through the PDQB, you’ll have a set list of things you need that will hone your skills. At each level along the way that improvement will provide you with the opportunity to achieve something really special.

Unlike the competition system, or even playing in a pipe band, the PDQB certifications are entirely YOUR PROJECT, and don’t rely on other players, or an oft-disorganized group of people surrounding you that might let you down.  

This one is just for you, and it’s something you can use to springboard yourself to the next level. 

Setting the bench mark.  

The PDQB exams help you to set the next benchmark in a way that’s internationally recognized, organized, and meaningful. Now, with our in-depth prep courses, you’ll have the materials you need to reach these benchmarks and to keep your piping on the right track. 

Oh and by the way, it feels great to have that little piece of paper on your wall.  

Let’s not forget this important little detail. When you’re done with your certification, and you’ve passed with flying colors, you’ll get that official certificate in the mail with your name on it, and you’ll be an officially accredited bagpiper.  

Mine is up on the studio wall right next to my University degree. Feels pretty good.