Tips and Suggestions

MUSICAL SELECTION

This is something that you will have to work out with the piper. The Bagpipe Connection already has several sets of music prepared and intend to play. There is a great deal of pipe music that pipers will know, plaase ask if you have a special request.

WEDDINGS

BEFORE THE CEREMONY. This usually not an ideal time for the piper to play unless you have something special in mind. If the majority of the guest arrive at the same time (exiting a bus, boarding a yacht, etc.) then a piper can be used quite effectively.

CEREMONY PROCESSIONAL and RECESSIONAL. This is the most appropriate time to play during any ceremony. A drummer is a very nice accompanyment to the processional/recesional since it adds rythym and excitement to the piping. Have the piper/(drummer) march in/out the a group, wedding party, guests, etc. and have them play approximately 10-15 minutes stop until the guests have left the venue. For a wedding, after photos are taken and the rice is thrown, the piper/(drummer) can now begin to play a fast and lively tune, especially if the couple is entering a vehicle.

COCKTAIL HOUR. Cocktail Hours are usually void of live entertainment and can be a perfect place for pipes to be played. A smallpiper and drummer can easily blend in the room and provide background music for your guests. One drawback is that the bride and groom are normally taking photos at this time and are not present during the cocktail hour.

CORPORATE MEETINGS/EVENT RECEPTIONS/PARTIES. A lovely touch to any gathering is to have the piper(s)/drummer(s) march in to the venue a new couple, man/woman of the hour, a speaker, featured entertainer , etc. to make an ultimate grand apearance. A common practice at many parties/receptions/conferences is to have the pipes and drums played after refreshments has been served for a little concert/background music. Be sure to keep it short so the crowd does not get bored. Also, do not be surprised to see your guests clapping and dancing to the pipe music.

MEMORIALS

No musical instrument in the world can stir the soul like the Great Highland Bagpipes. The bagpipers and drummers of The Bagpipe Connection are available for memorial services at any location and are open to all religious and spiritual practices.

DURING THE SERVICE: Solo piping is powerful at moving emotions during a memorial ceremony. Most appropriate is a single set toward the end of the ceremony.

FUNERAL PROCESSION: It can be a fitting touch to have a piper, epsecially accompanied by a drummer to march the procession from the ceremony site to the grave site. Be sure to keep distance in mind.

Gravesite/Ash Scattering/Burial at Sea. This is the most popular time for bagpipers to play for a memorial service. The best time to have pipes and drums play is at the ceremony closing.

Memorial Special! Add a real bugler to any memorial package for only $75.