Below are some examples of how I can transform your day into an experience that your guests will remember for years to come:
Weddings
First of all, it’s your big day. You’re the boss and you decide exactly how you want it to be. I’ve listed some of the more common “options” below but they are only there as a guide. If you have something else in mind, please let me know and I’ll try to accommodate it. I embrace all weddings, regardless of sexuality.
- Outside as the bride enters the chapel.
- As the newly married couple leaves the chapel.
- As guests arrive for the reception.
- While leading the bride and groom to their seats. It is also traditional at this point for the piper to toast the newly married couple with a glass of whisky before piping himself out.
Funerals
Funeral Bagpipe music has always been considered as a statement of remembrance in the Scottish and Irish heritage. I can play at a funeral service as a means of showing respect and saying goodbye to the departed loved one. The tunes that I play are at the request of the family. If you are not sure what tunes are suitable I will be glad to assist.
Burial
- While the coffin is taken from the hearse to the chapel.
- While leading the coffin from the chapel to the graveside.
- At the graveside as the coffin is lowered into the grave and afterwards as loved ones gather.
Cremation
- Outside the crematorium as mourners arrive.
- While the coffin is taken from the hearse to the chapel.
- As the curtain is closed, and afterwards as loved ones leave the crematorium.
Corporate Hospitality
Corporate events greatly benefit from Scottish Bagpiping to help celebrate, promote and expose companies interests whatever they may be. I have experience of playing at a range of corporate events like, Product Launches, Christmas Parties, Graduation Events, Public Ceremonies, Television or Conferences.
Some examples of how I can entertain at your event:
- As the guests arrive at the venue
- As the keynote speaker enters
Burns Supper
Burns Night is the busiest time on a piper’s calendar. My services range from piping as the guests arrive, leading guests to their tables, piping as the haggis is presented to the audience, addressing the haggis if required and piping as the haggis is paraded out. I can advise clients on the structure and formalities for those wishing to hold a Burns supper for the first time. I can also recite Tam O’Shanter unaided and would be very happy to give a performance.
Early booking is advisable to avoid disappointment.
Hogmanay
Make your New Years Eve extra special with an evening of bagpipe music, see in the new year with traditional bagpipes playing Auld Lang Syne when the clock strikes 12 and I can also play a selection of tunes as guests arrive or during the evening.
Accompaniment to massed bands
Bagpipes work well as a solo instrument, but when combined with a full orchestra they can provide a truly magical experience. I have previously played in The Loreley Military Tattoo, The 65th D-Day Commemorations in Normandy live on the BBC, the final police passing out parade in Hendon and the annual Schützenfest in Germany.
None of the Above
Bagpipes are often used for formal occasions, but they can be a fun instrument too. In August 2016 I was asked to take part in a sketch for the Tracey Ullman comedy show on the BBC. I can tailor my performance to your own personal requirements, so if what you need isn’t listed above, do get in touch as I love a challenge!