Hire A Piper
One of the joys/privileges/honors of being a bagpiper is that you are often asked to be a part of the most intimate part of people’s lives. Be it playing at a wedding where the mood is upbeat and joyful or playing for a funeral where things are more solemn and mournful, pipers are often the soundtrack to that event and more often than not one of the things people tend to remember about the event. There are other events such as church services, memorials, birthday parties and such but weddings and funerals seem to be the biggies.
There have been instances where the entire band has played both weddings and funerals others where a single piper has been requested. In either case as members of SALPD we try to provide the proper look and tone from the band members in attendance. It has been said by certain crusty old Pipe Majors (and even crustier Drum Majors) that the pipes do two things remarkable well mourn the dead and rouse to battle. (That said I’ll let you draw your own references as to their place at weddings) As stated before it really is a privilege and honor to perform at these events and we want you and your guests to remember the piper/s for the right reasons not the wrong ones.
Pipe Major MacLeod recently piped at a funeral and the band was sent this email:
Tim…
We didn’t have a chance to talk at my brother’s funeral, but it should not be left unsaid that your part was as dramatic, excellently presented, and respectful as it was hoped to be. Thank you for being on time, for taking our request on such short notice, and for doing a job worthy of the man we honored.
Ed attempted to learn the bagpipes and he always had a fascination with all things Celtic. In his 30′s and 40′s, Ed was a large, robust man and once sported a big, bushy red beard. As we pulled up to the grave site, my wife remarked how much you looked like Ed at that point in his life. It was serendipitous how seeing you completed the whole image. Ed had requested a piper at his funeral once we learned that his cancer was going to be terminal. You fulfilled his request in grand style. It could not have been better.
Thank you.
Pat Robson
Ed’s big brother
Our condolences go out to Pat and the entire Robson family. No matter what the event or when it is please feel free to contact us for all your piping needs. You can book the band with the previous link. Thanks for all your support and we’ll see you all soon.
