Stevie Bagpipes - Highland Wedding Piper Award-Winning Highland Wedding Piper | 40+ Years Experience

As a solo Highland bagpiper my technical requirements are minimal. I simply require a small performance space indoors or outdoors. No electricity or sound equipment is required. Access to the venue and a suitable area to prepare beforehand is helpful.

No sound or lighting equipment is required. The Highland bagpipes are naturally powerful and project very well without amplification, both indoors and outdoors.

I usually ask for basic information about the venue layout and the timing of the event so I can coordinate my performance with the schedule. For weddings this normally includes the ceremony time, guest arrival arrangements and any specific moments where piping is required.

As a traditional Highland bagpiper I provide live piping performances only.

Yes. I offer flexible piping options depending on the type of event and the couple’s plans for the day. This can include piping as guests arrive, piping the bride down the aisle, music during the signing of the register and piping the newly married couple from the ceremony. I can also pipe the couple into the wedding breakfast or perform during the evening reception if requested. Each performance can be tailored to suit the schedule and atmosphere of the celebration.

One of the most memorable performances of my career was being invited to perform as the Lone Piper at Bamburgh Castle during the national celebrations for Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II’s Platinum Jubilee in 2022. I was also honoured to perform as the Lone Piper during the celebrations marking the Coronation of King Charles III at Bamburgh Castle. Performing at such an iconic historic castle overlooking the Northumberland coast was a very special experience and a highlight of my piping career.

My musical influences come primarily from the rich tradition of Highland bagpiping. I have always admired the great Scottish piping traditions and the classic tunes that have been played for generations at weddings, ceremonies and national events. Traditional Scottish melodies such as Highland Cathedral, Scotland the Brave and Amazing Grace remain some of the most powerful and recognisable pieces in the bagpipe repertoire.

I have been playing the Great Highland Bagpipe for over 40 years and have performed at hundreds of weddings, ceremonies and formal events throughout the North East, across the UK and Internationally. Over the years I have had the privilege of performing at prestigious venues including Bamburgh Castle and many historic castles, stately homes and country house wedding venues across Northumberland, North Yorkshire and the Scottish Borders.

Weddings are always a particular favourite. The sound of the Highland bagpipes adds a unique and unforgettable atmosphere to the occasion, whether piping the bride down the aisle, welcoming guests or leading the newly married couple from the ceremony. It is always a privilege to be part of such an important moment in people’s lives.

As a solo Highland bagpiper my setup time is minimal and I normally arrive in good time before the performance to coordinate with the venue or wedding planner. Performances are usually tailored to the event, for example piping for guest arrival, leading the bride to the ceremony, playing during key moments of the service and piping the newly married couple from the ceremony. The length of performance can be adapted to suit the schedule of the event.

Yes, I regularly perform both indoors and outdoors. The Highland bagpipes project beautifully in open spaces and are particularly suited to outdoor settings such as castle grounds, gardens and historic venues. I simply require a safe and suitable performance area.

Yes, clients are very welcome to request particular pieces of music for their event. Popular choices include Highland Cathedral, Scotland the Brave and Amazing Grace, but I am always happy to discuss suitable music for the occasion and tailor the performance to suit the atmosphere of the event.

Clients often describe my performances as atmospheric, memorable and a highlight of their special occasion. The sound of the Highland bagpipes creates a powerful and emotional moment, whether welcoming guests, leading a wedding procession or marking an important ceremonial moment.

Yes. I have extensive experience performing at all stages of a wedding ceremony. This can include piping as guests arrive, piping the bride down the aisle, playing during the signing of the register and leading the newly married couple from the ceremony. I am always happy to coordinate with the couple and venue to ensure everything runs smoothly.

Yes. If requested, I can perform the traditional Gaelic piper’s toast or blessing, a historic Highland custom often used to honour the bride and groom or mark a special moment during the wedding celebrations. This adds a memorable and authentic Scottish touch to the occasion.