Finding a piper

Choosing a piper for your event, whether it is a small party or a large wedding, is difficult. We have all seen and heard most instruments being played and have an idea how a quality performance should sound. Selecting a piper is much more difficult because most people have never heard a well tuned and professionally played bagpipe. A poorly played bagpipe will have your guests covering their ears. However, a well played bagpipe can greatly enhance your event. Remember, most people don't hate bagpipes, they hate bad bagpipes.

When you are spending a lot of money and time to plan a special event, you want to make sure you have hired a good piper. Here are a few questions you should ask any perspective piper:

Do you currently and regularly compete? Competition keeps a piper on his toes and always working to improve his skills. If a piper doesn't compete or doesn't have much to offer in the way of competitive success or results, be suspicious of their ability.

What grade level do you play at? The bagpipe grading system starts at grade five for beginners and goes up to grade one for a world class musician. Pipers are promoted up the scale by a governing body (in the Northwest, we are judged by the British Columbia Piping Association) based on their performances at competitions. When choosing a piper, try to find the highest grade player you can - this will help ensure they will be playing a well-tuned bagpipe and will be up to a high standard of performance. A piper can claim to be any grade level. Make sure to ask all prospective pipers if they have won any prizes in the grade they claim to play in.

Are you a member of a piping association? In our area, we have the Washington Piping Association, The Oregon Piper’s Society and The British Columbia Piping Association. Being a member of these organizations keeps a piper up to date on current events and new techniques. Members of these organizations are generally better pipers because they are more involved in the bagpipe community.

If possible, it is recommended you audition the piper. Any reputable piper should be able to audition for you in person or send you demo recordings of their playing.