Andrew Brian Highland bagpiper Full time, professional Highland bagpiper to hire throughout the UK.

No technical requirements are needed. however, depending on the performance requirements, a changing/tuning room may be required. If I am required to play with other instruments, then rehearsal time may also be required.

If I am required to play for long periods over a few hours and particulary in warm weather, soft drinks/water would be much appreciated.

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Information such as local parking if none on site or local land marks if the venue is difficult to find.

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I've been lucky to play at many high profile events and places over the years, from Madison Square Garden, to the Esplanade at Edinburgh Castle for the Edinburgh Tattoo. I've played for Royalty and various Heads of State through to intimate gatherings for ordinary families. The highlight though for the fact of it being such an historic event, was the hand over of Hong Kong ceremony as a member of the Pipes and Drums of the 1st Bn Black Watch in 1997.

I look to others in my profession that may well not be so well known to the wider public. Pipers who are at the top of their craft musically and also with their standard of turn out. As for the greatest tune of all time? I'm not sure many outside of piping circles would appreciate the true bagpipe classics, but for everyone else, Highland Cathedral must certainly rank up there as one of the most popular.

I started piping at 9 years old and am now in my 4th decade of playing the pipes (Not far off approaching the 5th...)
I was lucky enough to be accepted into the Pipes and Drums of the 1st Bn The Black Watch, where I gained invaluable experience performing to a professionally high standard. After the Army, I performed at the odd wedding and funeral on a part time basis. In late 2020 I decided the time was right to go full time and I have never looked back.
I can call on many years experience performing at the highest standard at events such as -
The Edinburgh Military Tattoo, The Berlin Tattoo, The Basel Tattoo, Musical Tours of North America and New Zealand, performances for the British Royal family and foreign heads of state, various military functions/memorials, Pipe band competitions including the World Pipe Band Competition and working with industry professionals in the Wedding, Military and Funeral environments
I bring this wealth of experience to each event I'm booked for.

Each event type has it's own plus points. It's always nice to experience new places and some wedding venues are stunning and to have the opportunity to play in some beautiful, historic locations is a a privilege. It is also a huge honour to support families as they say their final goodbyes to a loved one. Being trusted to help plan and deliver a poignant performance and using my vast experience to alleviate some of the stress involved in such an important day is a huge honour and one I take great pride in.

Set up space is minimal and dependant on the type of function. If I'm required as a surprise at a wedding, then I may need an area to get changed in. For all other standard performances, then a changing area isn't always required.

Performance times do change depending on the event requirements, any restrictions venues may have and the type of event. I always aim to chat through the event requirements and build the performances around the clients wishes.

Typically, I would try to be on site an hour prior to the start of the service (For weddings and funerals). This enables me to check out the venue (If it's my first visit), speak with the venue staff to make sure we are all aware of what I've been asked to do and adjust accordingly if required. My aim is to not cause any last minute panics through lack of planning on my part (or allow for any unexpected oversights and adjust where necessary)

Bagpipes work best outdoors, so, yes, outdoors is fine. Also, the uniform is designed to stand up to the rigours and unpredictability of the British weather, so I am well equipped to deal with all weather conditions.

I encourage clients to pick the tunes for their event. I have a list of tunes I can play that is available to view, and also have a number of recordings and videos that can be accessed to help with choices. In some instances, I can source and learn tunes that are not listed, although, I do need to remind clients that not all music can be played on the bagpipe. Where this happens, I am happy to discuss and suggest alternative choices.

Google AI says -
Andrew Brian, a Highland bagpiper based in Warrington, Cheshire, has received overwhelmingly positive reviews for his professional and moving performances at various events. Customers consistently praise his communication, punctuality, and the overall impact he has on their special occasions.
Andrew is frequently described as professional, friendly, and easy to communicate with.
Reviews highlight his amazing playing and the moving quality of his music.
Going Above and Beyond: Many reviewers mention that Andrew went above and beyond what was expected, including playing for extended periods, even in challenging weather conditions.
Positive Impact on Events: Reviewers consistently state that Andrew's presence enhanced their events, whether it was a wedding, funeral, or other special occasion.
Value for Money: Several reviews mention that Andrew was worth every penny, indicating a high level of satisfaction with the service.

My quotes are based on performance type rather than restricted to hourly or number if sets rates.