Anistratov Higland Bagpipes

At Anistratov Bagpipes, we are proud to uphold the revered heritage of Great Highland Bagpipe making, offering instruments of distinguished character and tonal excellence. Each set is handcrafted with the utmost care, reflecting both precision and a deep reverence for tradition.

Our pipes are available in two principal pitches:
– The traditional Highland B♭ at 446 Hz, favoured by pipe bands for its bright, commanding tone.
– A concert B♭ at 440 Hz, ideally suited for solo performance or ensemble playing.
Additionally, sets in concert A at 440 Hz may be commissioned upon special request.

Clients may select from three tiers of refinement: Standard, Premium, and Deluxe. Each instrument is crafted from one of three fine timbers — African Blackwood, Cocobolo, or Mopani — chosen for their tonal richness and aesthetic distinction.

The Standard configuration comprises three drones — two tenors and one bass — and is fitted with a durable plastic chanter. Instruments of the Premium and Deluxe classes are supplied, as standard, with a finely turned wooden chanter, hewn from the very same timber as the rest of the set, ensuring tonal harmony and visual unity throughout.

 The choice of materials, too, is not merely aesthetic. Wood species, mounts, and finishes each contribute directly to the tonal colour — the timbre — of the instrument. And while the exterior is important, the true voice of the drone is shaped within. Alexander utilises three distinct internal bore profiles across his designs, each carefully developed to support stability, richness, and harmonic integrity.

Anistratov Bagpipes stands as a testament to artisanal integrity — blending time-honoured methods with exacting modern standards, for pipers who demand not only performance, but legacy.

 The second pattern is the bore design which was based on drawings of Henry Starck, one of the great maker of bagpipes of the first half of 20th century. Drones Henry Starck Pattern produce clear, rich and very clean sound, quieter and more elegant than McDougall. The sound has less variation in frequencies and create a very solid and strong "sound wall" that supporting sound of the Chanter, but do not mix with it. They are very good in combination with wooden chanters. Alexander would say it`s ideal for solo playing.

 The third one is David Glen Pattern- classical drone bores design. This design was developed by Alexander after measuring and testing several sets of David Glen & sons of Edinburgh-greatest pipe makers of the 19th century. The drones sounds robust but not booming, very steady, and with a sonorous bass sound. The tone is rich and refined: the more ‘mellow’ that will setisfy the taste of a true connoiseur and gourmet of Highland Pipes. . 

The Finishing Touches of Distinction

At Anistratov Bagpipes, we believe that the true character of an instrument lies in the finer details. As a bespoke maker, we take great pride in offering an elegant selection of materials and profiles for ferrules, projecting mounts and tuning pins—allowing each set of Great Highland pipes to be as individual as its player.

Our fittings are handcrafted in a choice of bronze, stainless steel, nickel silver, and 985-grade sterling silver, each selected for its durability, lustre, and character. For those with a discerning eye, we also offer custom combinations of metals—where contrasting tones of yellow and white metals meet in a single fitting, setting up a subtle interplay of colour and texture against the deep polish of African Blackwood.

This refined contrast between light and dark, metal and wood, tradition and innovation, results in a visual harmony that is truly unique.

In addition to metalwork, we incorporate a curated palette of rare and striking materials for mounts and decorative elements. Clients may select from Boxwood, Cocobolo, Mazur Birch, and Snakewood—each prized for its grain and natural beauty. For those who seek a more classic aesthetic, we also offer acrylic imitationsof ivory and horn, offering timeless elegance with modern practicality.

Each Anistratov bagpipe is a collaboration between maker and musician—an instrument not only of great sound, but of style, heritage and individuality.

At the heart of every truly exceptional set of Great Highland Bagpipes lies the design of its drones — an intricate union of tradition, acoustical precision, and refined aesthetic sensibility. Each set of Anistratov drones is not only a carefully voiced musical instrument but a statement of craftsmanship and taste.

Alexander Anistratov has developed a selection of drone designs, each with distinct proportions, flowing lines, and thoughtfully balanced decorative elements. From the understated elegance of smooth, unadorned surfaces — a minimalist’s choice — to the more traditionally styled combing and beading, there is a configuration to suit every discerning piper.

Particularly notable are Alexander’s three variations of combing and beading. These include a fine, subtle version for those who favour quiet sophistication; a medium-size profile offering classical balance; and the larger, standard form that has long been associated with Highland bagpipes. Each of these is executed with precision, adding depth and definition to the visual identity of the drones without overwhelming their form.

Further enhancing the character of our instruments are the bell tops, available in either the robust and symbolic Mjölnirdesign, or the more flowing and graceful Calice form. These elements complement the lines of the drones beautifully and may be discussed and selected in consultation with the maker at the time of ordering.

Anistratov drones are available in the classical Bb pitch, in a flatter A to suit A-chanters, and in C — ideal for playing Breton music in minor keys. Whether for competition, performance, or private enjoyment, these drones are created to resonate with both the ear and the eye — instruments of enduring value, made with quiet confidence and refined distinction.