Business Details
Award-Winning Scottish Bagpiper Services
Craig Irving Scottish Piper brings over two decades of expertise in delivering traditional Scottish bagpiping performances for weddings and special events. Based in Gretna Green, Craig combines deep musical heritage with modern adaptability, offering services ranging from ceremonial entrances to bespoke entertainment solutions. As a former Pipe Major of the Burgh of Langholm Pipe Band and double winner of the Scottish Confetti Wedding Awards' Best Piper title, he demonstrates exceptional technical skill and event coordination.Craig's services include customisable tartan choices, digital bagpipes for indoor events, and smallpipes for softer indoor performances. His international experience spans from castle grounds to mountain tops, with notable appearances at the Commonwealth Games and for the Royal Family. Committed to community engagement, Craig participates in charity events, youth education initiatives, and local cultural celebrations while maintaining rigorous professional standards through membership in the College of Piping.
Services
Wedding Bagpiping
Smallpipes Performance
Full Highland Dress
Pipes and Drums
Reception Entertainment
Digital Bagpipes
Pipergrams
Funeral Services
Burns Suppers
Venue Openings
Highlights and features
- We offer 20 years of professional bagpiping experience at weddings and events
- We are the only local piper offering bellows-blown smallpipes for indoor events
- Our clients can customise tartan choices and personal tune selections
- We have won Best Piper at Scottish Confetti Wedding Awards twice
- We provide reliable international services with proven travel experience
Associations and certifications
- College of Piping
What people say
World class piper
Brilliant musician
Fantastic piper
Made our day special
Highly recommended
Services
Wedding Bagpiping
Professional bagpiping services for wedding ceremonies with customizable tune selections and tartan choices. Available for outdoor and indoor venues, including church services and beach weddings. Includes pre-ceremony guest entertainment and post-ceremony photography accompaniment.
Smallpipes Performance
Bellows-blown smallpipes offering softer traditional Scottish music for indoor events. Ideal for signing registers, reception background music, and remembrance ceremonies. Provides full harmonic range without overwhelming indoor spaces.
Pipes and Drums
Combined bagpipes and drum performances for enhanced musical impact at weddings and special events. The rhythmic drumming complements traditional Scottish melodies, creating powerful ceremonial entrances and celebratory performances.
Digital Bagpipes
Modern digital bagpipes replicating authentic Highland pipe tones for indoor events. Compliant with health regulations while maintaining traditional sound quality. Suitable for weddings, corporate events, and private functions requiring amplified sound control.
Pipergrams
Customised surprise bagpiping appearances for special occasions. Available for birthdays, anniversaries, and socially distanced celebrations. Includes doorstep performances and event surprise entries with prior arrangement.
People
Craig Irving
Professional Piper
Award-winning piper with 20 years' experience, former Pipe Major of Burgh of Langholm Pipe Band for 17 years. Double winner of Scottish Confetti Wedding Awards' Best Piper. Member of College of Piping with international performance experience.
Questions
What events do you typically perform at?
I perform at weddings, funerals, Burns Suppers, venue openings, ceilidhs, galas, and private celebrations. My most popular bookings are for wedding ceremonies and anniversary events.
Can I choose specific songs for my event?
Yes, I offer a wide repertoire of traditional Scottish tunes and can learn new pieces by request. Clients often select personal favourites for key moments like wedding entrances.
Do you offer different performance styles?
I provide traditional bagpipes, smallpipes for softer indoor performances, and digital bagpipes. Full Highland Dress is available for formal occasions, with optional drum accompaniment.
How far in advance should I book?
I recommend booking 6-12 months ahead for weekends between March and October. Short-notice bookings are possible depending on availability, with emergency arrangements considered.
Are you available for international events?
Yes, I travel nationally and internationally for special events. Recent performances include South Korea and various UK locations, with experience handling international event logistics.
What happens if weather affects outdoor performances?
I carry weather-appropriate equipment and can adapt performances as needed. Full Highland Dress is weather-dependent, but alternative arrangements ensure musical continuity regardless of conditions.
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