How To Book A Bagpiper: The Guide To Booking A Bagpiper For Your Wedding
Nothing screams classy more than a Bagpiper at your wedding! If that hasn’t already convinced you then have a read of 2021 guide to booking a Bagpiper for your wedding.
When does a Bagpiper play at a wedding?
Typically a Bagpiper will play outside the church or registry as you, your partner and guests arrive. Other possibilities include playing at the reception, playing you or your partner down the aisle, playing for wedding photos and many more!
No idea is too out there for us, if it’s possible then we will make it happen!
Can a Bagpiper play outside?
Yes, however, weather plays a big part in this. Bagpipers will have to adjust their pipes to weather to maintain a good sound and accurate tuning. This can be difficult even for an experienced piper so having a back up place for your Bagpiper to play is advisable.
What tunes do Bagpipers play at a wedding?
Some wedding classics include:
Scotland the Brave
Mhairi’s Wedding
Highland Cathedral
Highland Wedding
Flower of Scotland
As part of the booking process we can arrange a consultation with a Bagpiper to play examples or give you more about the tradition and history of the pipes.
Listen to more on our Wedding Piper Page
What do Bagpipers wear?
Bagpipers can arrive in a couple different traditional uniforms.
No. 1 - Traditional Full Highland Dress
View our Bagpiper profiles here.
This dress is typically reserved for formal events such as weddings and funerals. Due to the expense of this dress, a piper may not have their own. If you would like your piper to arrive in No. 1 dress, we will do our best to arrange this.
No. 2 - Suitable for any occasion
No. 2 dress comprises a kilt with a jacket, tie, socks, gillie brogues, and a Glengarry (hat). This is common for weddings and other events. Many clients prefer this to the Full Highland Dress as its a little less formal.
If you have a specific dress code for your Bagpiper please let us know at the time of booking. Our Bagpipers can accommodate most requests and in some cases can provide a few options of tartans to choose from. If we cannot accommodate a specific request we will help you arrange the hire of other attire
Can the Bagpiper play with other instruments?
Yes, you could have multiple Bagpipers, Bagpiper and a Snare Drummer or even a mini Pipe Band. Think your idea is too crazy? Try us!
How much does a Bagpiper cost to hire?
The cost of hiring a Bagpiper will depend on a few factors such as:
Travel costs
The duration of your event
The experience level of the piper
We work closely with out Pipers on a quote by quote basis to give you a price that is tailored to your requirements.
The biggest factor in the price is usually the duration of the contract as you can see below:
1 hour : £170-£230
2 hours: £200-£270
3 or more hours: £230-£300+
How far in advance should I book a Bagpiper?
We recommend booking your ceilidh band as soon as you have your venue confirmed. Ceilidh bands are in high demand and the best ones can be booked up a year or more in advance.
Ceilidhs are popular for many occasions such as Burns night, St Andrews day, St Patrick's day and during the summer many bands will be out every weekend playing for weddings.
How do I pay the Bagpiper?
Once you are happy with your quote, we will issue you with a contract and instructions on how to pay. A booking is confirmed once both you and the band have signed this contract and the deposit is received.
A month prior to your event, a member of the band will be in contact to discuss the fine details with you.
Why book a Bagpiper through Slàinte Sounds?
We have a small roster of artists that we trust and are inspired by. This is how we ensure that you are booking only the highest quality acts.
Booking through an agency gives you the piece of mind that there is someone else to help with planning your event.
Cameron Sharp is a very versatile piper.
What other types of pipes are there?
Many countries have their own Bagpipe. Check out this example of the Gaita Galega from Galicia.
In Scotland you’ll find the Highland Bagpipes, Border Pipes and Small Pipes.
Listen to Baile for an example: 7/8 | Baile (bandcamp.com)
Ireland has another set with a fantastic vocal quality called the Uilleann Pipes.
Listen to Mànran for an example: Oran Na Cloiche | Mànran (bandcamp.com)
Ready to Book?
Get in touch via our contact page or by email to info@slaintesounds.com