Piper for Funerals & Memorial Services

Having the pipes played at a Funeral or Memorial Service brings with it a beautiful and special part of the service.

Every funeral is an emotional roller coaster for the family and friends of the loved one who has passed away, and for many it is one of the most stressful and deeply emotive days that they have ever had to endure. Many parts of the service are solemn and reflective, and having the pipes play a "special" tune at certain moments can give everyone the opportunity to "have their moment of reflection", and to remember all the special occasions.

Each service is different, and therefore each is unique in itself. I have been privileged to play at many funeral services, burials, cremations and memorial services, and all have had that "magical moment" where the hauntingly beautiful sound of the pipes has given the occasion that special touch.

There are different times at a service when the pipes can be best utilised. Some of these can include:-

• Playing a few tunes as the family and mourners arrive
• Piping the immediate family into the service
• Piping the coffin into the service
• Playing a special tune at a time of reflection during the service
• Piping as the curtains are closed after the committal (cremation service)
• Piping the coffin, followed by family out of the service to the hearse
• Playing a few background tunes as the mourners gather round the family
• Leading the hearse from the funeral home/chapel on its way to cemetery
• Piping the hearse along its final 100 metres towards the gravesite
• Piping as the pall bearers carry the coffin to the gravesite
• Playing a special tune for reflection
• Piping as the coffin is lowered
• Piper playing a farewell tune whilst slowly marching into the distance

This is only a guide of possible times when a piper can add to the occasion. Some families will request different combinations of the above.

Tune selection can also be an area where many different families can differ in their style and choice of music. I am happy to play requests by the family, or if they find it difficult to choose the type of tunes, then I can use my extensive experience in choosing suitable tunes for the occasion.

As a guide, here is a list of the most commonly requested tunes, that can be used for any type of funeral or memorial service:-

• Amazing Grace (the most requested tune for funerals or memorial services)
• Flowers of the Forest
• Danny Boy
• Flower of Scotland
• The Skye Boat Song
• The Dark Island
• Mull of Kintyre
• Loch Lomond
• A Scottish Soldier
• The Battle's O'er
• Highland Cathedral
• Love me Tender
• My Heart Will Go On
• Going Home
• Maggie

There are obviously many more tunes, but this selection will give you an idea of some of the most commonly requested tunes.

Please feel free to contact me and ask advice on when you think the pipes would be appropriate and also if you require assistance on tune selection.