We’ve had a run of Atherton MD’s in the past month. This is the third set to come up, and coincidentally, all three were made in 2009. The photos here are of the first set. The only differences with the current set is that the blowpipe is brass lined blackwood and the chanter stock is blackwood as well. The blowstick stock is poly, as was Dave Atherton’s usual practice. The current set also comes with the original Rocket reeds and a nickel-sleeved mouthpiece

Dave Atherton is regarded by many to be the best pipemaker of modern times. His attention to detail, quality materials and perfect workmanship are legendary. He recently quit making pipes to pursue other ventures, leaving a legacy of around 170 sets, mostly reproductions of a Duncan MacDougall cocuswood bagpipe previously owned by the late Roddy MacDonald of Wilmington, Delaware, and now owned by his son Calum.

The tone is bold and steady with Canning tenors and a Kinnaird bass and the pipes are as steady as any set you will find.

This a collector’s item that plays beautifully, by a modern maker who will be remembered long after many others are forgotten.