WATCH: How to play the bagpipes

NEW YORK (WABC) -- The New York City Saint Patrick's Day Parade is steeped in tradition that stretches back to the middle of the 19th century. And one of the most traditional sounds along the parade route is that of the bagpipes. We caught up with one of the many area Emerald Society Pipes and Drums members that can been seen and heard in the parade.

Sean Hagan is a member of the Police Emerald Society of Westchester County and plays the bagpipes that once belonged to his late father. Hagan took a moment to show us the basic components of the pipes and how he makes the unique sounds we've come to know so well on St. Patrick's Day.

Bagpipes are made of the bag, the drone stocks (a bass drone and two tenor drones), the chanter reed and the blow stick. The stocks all have reeds inside and when you blow into the bag the air passes over the reeds. And don't forget to squeeze the air out as you blow. You could try it yourself or just enjoy this video of Hagan demonstrating his talents.