I've always found the sounds of bagpipes mesmerizing. There's something eerily sacred, vulnerable and majestic about its sound. While living in Germany years ago, I worked at the local community newspaper called the Port Reporter for a summer hire program. My editor, Sgt. Gray, once was asked to come in and play the national anthem, in full regalia and all, on bagpipes. Ever since I've been intrigued by its sound.