A Dictionary of Music and Musicians/Shepherd's Pipe

SHEPHERD'S PIPE. A name given to the pastoral oboe or musette. It was an instrument with a double reed like that of the bagpipe chaunter; and seems occasionally to have been combined with a windbag as in the latter instrument. It was made in several sizes, constituting a family or 'consort' similar to the viols, recorders, and other instruments. Its origin in the simple reed is well given in Chappell's 'History of Music,' vol. i. p. 259.

An excellent drawing of its various forms, with the method of holding it, is to be found in a 'Traité de la Musette' by Jean Girin of Lyon, 1572, where it is distinguished from the 'Cromorne' and 'Hautbois.' The bagpipe form with drones and windbag is also engraved, and interesting details are given as to celebrated makers; many of whom, like the 'luthiers' of Cremona, seem to have handed down their reputation to their descendants. It appears to have had six holes, and the rudimentary scale and compass of the Oboe; though, of course when played from a bag, and not with the lips, the upper harmonic register must have been deficient.

[ W. H. S. ]