Irish bagpiper booking FAQs

I need a piper for a funeral tomorrow can I still book one in time?
We often book pipers at short notice. Call us on 020 8111 1916 or via our out of office number if required on 07877 819255 which can also be used to WhatsApp or text us on.
How much will it cost me?
The cost of hiring a piper starts at £290 for playing at one location. More details can be found here.
Can the piper play at the funeral service and also at the graveside afterwards?
Yes, you can book him to play in one or two places if you wish.
Can I choose the tunes played on the day?
Yes, once the booking is confirmed, the piper will call you to discuss the tunes you wish to have played. He will also help with suggestions if required.
Does the bagpiper wear a uniform?
Yes, kilt and uniform.
Can the bagpiper pipe me into the church for my wedding and afterwards at the reception?
Yes, we can arrange that for you at the time of booking.
How far do your pipers travel?
We have bagpipers and based across the UK mainland. We regularly send Irish pipers to Birmingham, West Yorkshire, Kent, Essex, Sussex, Glasgow, Bristol and all the major towns and cities in Britain.
What are the most popular tunes played at funerals?
The Fields of Athenry, Danny Boy and Amazing Grace are the most popular. At Scottish Funerals; Flowers of the Forest and The Flower of Scotland are the favourites.
Do you also supply uilleann pipers?
Yes we do. Visit our dedicated uilleann piper page.
I need someone to sing at a funeral, can you help?
Yes, we can supply a guitar/vocalist to perform a song(s) of your choice at the service and or the graveside.
What's the difference between an Irish piper and a Scottish piper?
There is no difference in the actual instrument. Bagpipes are very popular in both cultures. The uniforms and choice of songs are the most obvious differences. Some people may prefer the traditional uilleann pipes which some consider to be more of an Irish sounding instrument.
What's the booking and payment process?
Once we’ve found a suitable act for you, we’ll provisionally book them on your behalf and provide you with a written agreement between you and the act, detailing all of the agreed terms and conditions, fee, timings, etc. This will be subject to your approval, following which we’ll ask you to sign and return a copy to us within 7 days (Or sooner). A deposit will be required of around 25% of the overall fee and the balance is usually payable either 48hrs prior to the actual booking or in cash on the day to the act. In some situations the fee in full will be required in advance. Our preferred method of payment is via bank transfer, details of which would be included in your paperwork. For deposits, we can also accept card or PayPal payments online or over the phone.
What are your payment methods?
The vast majority of our clients pay their deposits and balances by bank transfer, using our business account. We can also accept payments (for deposits only) using credit or debit card via phone or via PayPal. Most clients prefer to pay in full prior to the event but in most cases the balance after the deposit fee can be paid in cash on the day to the act.
Are there any extra costs involved in making a booking?
Most fees are fully inclusive. Sometimes an additional fee may apply where exceptional travel time and distance is involved. This will always be included in any quote at the time of enquiry and stated clearly in any contract and subject to your agreement.
What if I cancel?
If you cancel your booking, in most cases there will be a fee involved. This fee would depend on the period of time between that date a booking is made and the actual contracted performance date. Full details on cancellation fees can be found here and will also be written into your booking agreement.
How do I make an enquiry?
Visit our contact page to complete our enquiry form, request a callback, or call us on +(0)20 8111 1916. You can also WhatsApp us by clicking on the logo at the bottom of your screen.
Is there an additional agency fee to pay?
No. We make our profit from a commission percentage charged to the act, that’s already included in the overall fee.
How far ahead do I need to make a booking?
There’s no set time, but it’s best to book up as far ahead as possible. We do however, often arrange performances at short notice.