Wicks had strong ties with the Henry Starck family and worked for the firm for many years, before leaving in 1946. He spent some time working for George Alexander. He made bagpipes off and on until his death in 1988. I only have these pictures and would greatly appreciate more.
Charlie Wicks worked for Henry Starcks in the 1930s and1940s.
Shown here is a set of late 1940's pipes in african blackwood made by Charles "Charlie" Wicks. Charlie was a turner for Starck in the 1930's and 1940's until he set up on his own business in 1946.
They are said to be "rock solid" with a similar sound to the current Naill bagpipes.....which isn't a surprise as Les Cowell also started out with Starck's.
They were played in SLOT a few years ago. I'm not sure where they are today.
Charlie Wicks worked for Henry Starcks in the 1930s and1940s.
Shown here is a set of late 1940's pipes in african blackwood made by Charles "Charlie" Wicks. Charlie was a turner for Starck in the 1930's and 1940's until he set up on his own business in 1946.
They are said to be "rock solid" with a similar sound to the current Naill bagpipes.....which isn't a surprise as Les Cowell also started out with Starck's.
They were played in SLOT a few years ago. I'm not sure where they are today.
In identifying bagpipes, I don't guess. Either I know or I don't, however I won't muddy the waters by taking wild guesses. The bagpipe below came to me as possible Wick's bagpipes by virtue of a stamped chanter, which is rarely conclusive evidence.
When I look at a bagpipe, I see profiles first and then I look at details.
It is very difficult to line up these two bagpipes. Whenever silver is involved, one must understand that the bagpipe is made to fit the silver, which may demand certain changes to the norm. What I do see is a strong similarity in the beading and combing and in the profile of the projecting mounts.
When I look at a bagpipe, I see profiles first and then I look at details.
It is very difficult to line up these two bagpipes. Whenever silver is involved, one must understand that the bagpipe is made to fit the silver, which may demand certain changes to the norm. What I do see is a strong similarity in the beading and combing and in the profile of the projecting mounts.
Charlie Wicks