It is believed that the bagpipe originated in southwestern Asia, but is first seen historically in Rome during the first century of the Christian Era, the notorious Emperor Nero being the earliest known player. In the 20th century the bagpipe is cultivated in many different varieties throughout most of Europe, the Middle East, and No. America. Best known are the Highland bagpipe of the Scotch, the union pipes of Ireland and the Arabic ghaita. In the United States, the bagpipe has been heard throughout the fields of war, marching with time from the Revolution throughtout the Civil War. Today the bagpipe is considered mostly a folk instrument. Included with the bagpipe are two sets of reeds (2 pipe chanter, 2 bass drone, and 4 tenor drone), hemp, rubber corks, an 8 oz. bottle of seasoning, a practice chanter plus a Learn to Play the Bagpipe song book and CD. All wood is beautifully polished rosewood.