In recent times, there are many instruments that assist in creating a clean air flow to the pipes and assist the collection of condensation. In some pipes the player must cover the tip of the blowpipe with their tongue while inhaling, but most blowpipes have a non-return valve that eliminates this need. The most common method of supplying air to the bag is through blowing into a blowpipe or blowstick. Many bagpipes have more than one drone (and, sometimes, more than one chanter) in various combinations, held in place in stocks-sockets that fasten the various pipes to the bag. Magical Bagpipe Player for Gatherings, Debutante or Scottish Balls, Burns Nights or Suppers,Ĭhristmas Parties, Hogmanay (New Years Eve), Corporate Functions, Retirement Get-together,įuneral, Memorial & Committal Services in the Sydney Area.A detail from a painting by Hieronymus Bosch showing two bagpipers (15th century).Ī set of bagpipes minimally consists of an air supply, a bag, a chanter, and usually at least one drone.
Then move slowly move towards the graveside before the hymn is completed.
But for whatever the reason, many people want to have bagpipes played at a funeral service.
Perhaps it is the ancient, non-western scale of the instrument, or the soulful and haunting sounds that it makes. In recent years, the sound of Bagpipes has become associated with funeral services. Green Hills of Tyrol (The Scottish Solder)įor further information please email me at 0413122469.I will generally play from memory, so please allow sufficient time for special requests to be learned. The pipes are traditionally played while marching or standing, where sheet music would not be appropriate. While much modern music can be adapted to its nine notes, not all can. The Highland Bagpipes are an ancient instrument based on the myxilodian scale, with a range of little more than an octave. Not all music can be played on the bagpipes. If you have a special tune that you would like to hear, please ask about it. The following list includes suggested tunes. A tune like “Highland Cathedral” with the arrangement for pipes and organ is a unique way to celebrate their anniversary in a memorable way. Address to the haggis involving the bride and groomĪs an example, the couple can get David to play at their church during the service on the Sunday closest to their anniversary.Teach and Play for an easy Scottish dance that everyone can do.Play periodically during the wedding breakfast.Leading the Bride and Groom into the function.Suggestions for the Wedding Reception or Breakfast Play for 5-10 minutes and then lead guests to reception or to their cars.Play at the end to escort the Bride and Groom out of the ceremony.During the wedding as a solo or to accompany lighting the Unity candle.Play for the entry of the bridal attendants.Play indoors before ceremony as a prelude - pipes alone or with an organ.Play outside as guests arrive or leave.You may want the piper to provide all the music, or surprise the guests when escorting the bride and groom out of the ceremony. Once you've made the decision that bagpipes are a "must have" part of your wedding, the next step is to determine how and when. Other times, the couple may not have any known Celtic connections, yet they still want bagpipes at their wedding. Often in current times, having a bagpiper present at a wedding is a way for the bride and/or groom to celebrate, honor and connect with their Celtic roots. Almost every European country has an early form of the bagpipe that may have been used in this way. There are written references to bagpiping at weddings in the early 1600s in Scotland, and there is no way of knowing how old the custom may actually be. Let me assure you that bagpipes work very well at any ceremony. No doubt, once you have made the decision to have bagpipes at your event, you will have friends and family who are surprised or befuddled. Sydney Bagpiper, Dave, The Wild Scotsman, Australia Enthusiastic Bagpipe Player for Weddings and Events HireĬlick Here for Enquiry form or URGENT response