Can I teach myself piping from a book?

In a word, "no" The music of the bagpipe is a pre-renaissance musical form in which the grace-notes are incredibly important. There is no equivalent in traditional musical circles for the timing of a doubling or the weighting of a taurluath. Instruction is best passed down from players who have had their learning validated by certified judges and/or instructors (i.e., competition proven players).

If you do not have the time, schedule or inclination for regular lessons and wish to pursue this course, occasional lessons can be arranged with suitable instructors to avoid wasting your time and potentially abusing the public with improperly done self-instruction. Contact me for information on any of these options.