Alfred Percy Sykes was an importer of all kinds of musical instruments from 1920 to 1929. One resourse indicated “The nightingale and triangle was a trade mark used by the Melbourne music retailer Alfred Percy Sykes. The Australian National Archives records indicate that Sykes applied for the trade mark on 28th August 1899 and it was to be used on all musical instruments (except triangles, according to the original application). The application also states that A.P. Sykes was specifically a musical instrument importer rather than a maker.
Many thanks to Eric Gittins of Adelaide, Australia for sending the pictures at top right. There is little doubt that this bagpipe was made by Henry Starck (London) for A.P. Sykes. Of course, the beading and combing is very “Starck”. Beyond that the profiles line up with the instrument that Starck was making in the 1920’s and 30’s. The wooden projecting mounts are a bit unique, however I find that right across all makes. Flat-combed pipes and wood mount pipes are the most difficult to identify, in my experience. It’s very interesting to note the inscription on the chanter indicating “Argyle” model. This is the only instance I’ve come across where Starck (or anyone else) indicated a particular model of their bagpipe.
