PERFORMANCES

There are many kinds of events which the Highland Bagpipes are suited. This site concerns itself mainly with the two most common requests - Weddings and Funerals or Memorial services. Other events I have performed at are various types of parties, marriage proposals, picnics, St. Patrick's Day celebrations, promo engagements and sailboat christenings. The limit lies within the planner's creativity. So feel free to contact me with your ideas.
Reach me at 414-745-4742.

WEDDINGS

For weddings, the most common practice is to pipe the newly wedded couple, after they are announced, down the aisle and out the church. Generally, I am in front of the couple as I proceed, usually a dozen or so feet ahead. I have on occasion followed the party out after remaining at the front of the church while the couple walk out. This I believe is less effective than being out in front - leading. Which of course can make for some dramatic photos. Pipes can also be heard for a short time prior to the service or post service. These periods should remain short in order to keep the sound special, especially if the pipes are to be used to lead the couple (in or out or both). Exhuberant, bright marches are used for leading the couple while stationary performances prior to or post services include marches as well as jigs, reels, strathspeys and hornpipe tunes.

FUNERALS / MEMORIALS

Funerals, memorial services and the like often times call for a more somber, contemplative approach to the music selection. The tune, "Amazing Grace" is often requested and is most appropriate. Slow marches could also be used. The interjection of the Highland Bagpiping sound at a funeral or memorial service can be a very powerful element. As such, I always leave the decision of when to play to the planner of the service. I can only offer suggestions based on the music I play and previous, similar performances. Which brings me to the unique music known as Piobaireachd (pronounced: pee-brock) (find out a bit more on this music under the Tunes section). This music is unique to the Highland Bagpipe and is most closely related to classical music. Largely because the structure of a Piobraireachd tune begins with a ground or theme, then slowly builds in tempo through multiple variations and completes in a flurrish of more complicated fingering movements. What I find most appropriate for these services are the theme parts of these old, (some are 200 - 300 years old!) Piobraireachd tunes as well as some of the variations that lie within them. If you are planning a funeral service, please call to discuss how I can incorporate this beautiful music.

OTHER PERFORMANCES

Birthdays are probably the next most often requested performance gig. Of course, fun is in order here and Happy Birthday on the pipes is nothing but fun. Add a couple jigs and reels and you've got a real party. For all other performances, what type of music to play can be discussed prior to the event.

RATES / FEES

At minimum, I have a flat rate. However, there are factors that can alter the flat rate, such as, but not limited to mileage, type of performance and time involved. So please call to discuss your needs so that I can quote you a more accurate rate. Reach me at 414-745-4742.