Learning the Pipes

What's involved in playing the pipes?	What's the best way to practice/learn?
How do I get started to learn the pipes?	What are the special considerations of teaching young students?
Can I teach myself piping from a book?	What can I do to encourage "good" piping?
How long does it take to learn to play the pipes?	Tell me about the development of a piper.
How do I keep my bagpipe from slipping?	Does being "in" a band help with learning?
What's the most important thing that a student can learn?