Andrew Brian, Highland Bagpiper
Services
I can provide a number of different services covering different types of events. There is no set format to these events and as such each performance is tailored to suit each individual client. Each of the service types below will highlight typical performances and I will speak with you prior to any booking to discuss the various options and how they can fit into the running of your event.
Please below for a number of typical engagements. Of course, there are many other types of gatherings not listed below that a piper can attend. Please get in touch to discuss your celebration and how a piper can enhance your event.
Wedding Piper
In times gone by, Royalty, clan chiefs and other important people would employ pipers to play at special functions. When a piper would pipe for someone’s entrance, you knew you were in the presence of someone incredibly significant!
A piper at your wedding can add that sense of majesty and occasion few other musicians can achieve. The Bride and/or Groom can be accompanied down the aisle to the haunting strains of Highland Cathedral or even Perfect by Ed Sheeran!
Prior to this, your guests can feel they are entering something special as they are welcomed on their arrival by the piper playing at the entrance of your chosen venue. Then, to finish off, what can beat being presented to the top table of your wedding breakfast as your guests are on their feet clapping and cheering?
As a former military piper having played at numerous high profile events, I am extremely experienced at delivering the highest quality of music and presentation to what is the most important event of your life and leave lasting memories that will only enhance your day.
The music and points at which I would play are tailored to your requirements and I always aim to speak with couples to build the bagpipe performance around your ideas.
TIMINGS AND WEATHER
I will typically aim to be at your venue up to an hour before the start of the service, this will allow me to deal with any unexpected travel issues and prepare myself in time for your guests arriving. I am then available right up until you take your seat at the wedding breakfast. Rest assured there will be no extra additions to your final payment should timings run over slightly. I want to add to your day, not create extra stress! In the event of adverse weather conditions, some aspects of this service may need to be amended and I will do my best to accommodate any changes. Its worth considering that the bagpipe is not an indoor instrument so any performances as background music indoors is not recommended.
Funeral Piper
For as long as there have been bagpipes they have been used when honouring those that have passed. The military formalised the use of the Great Highland Bagpipe to give their fallen comrades a fitting accompaniment to their final resting place. Now, its more popular amongst the families of native Scots and Irish, those with a Scottish or Irish connection as well as those with no connection, but all have a love for the music of the Great Highland Bagpipe in common.
Typically, a piper would solemnly lead the funeral cortege to either the graveside or chapel, after that, a suitable air or a favourite tune would be played as family and guests follow into chapel or to the graveside. Finally, at the committal, a haunting air will play and fade away as the piper slowly moves off as family and friends are left to their memories and thoughts.
As a former military piper, I have extensive experience of delivering the highest quality of music and presentation to what is one of the most important events of your families lives and leave lasting memories that will leave a lasting tribute to your loved one. The music and points at which I would play are tailored to your requirements.
Dinner/Mess nights and Burns Suppers
It is traditional in most Scottish societies and Scottish military regiments for formal dinner evenings to have a piper play throughout the proceedings. Important guests can be honoured by being piped to their place at the top table and led out again after the meal. Pipers would then traditionally play a short set during the meal.
Many organisations hold formal dinner nights to celebrate appointments, honour special guests or mark a retirement. Pipers can add a Scottish flavour to the night or even just provide an impact that will be talked about for years after.
Some evenings may have a Scottish theme such as Burns night or Saint Andrews night, others might celebrate a special guests Scottish heritage. Either way, the piper can add that prestige that befits the occasion.
Get a Quote
Please get in touch for a quote for your event.