To ensure that the big day runs smoothly for that special Bride and Groom, your MSPIPER will work closely with you to ensure a flawless performance that will be long remembered for years to come.
When planning a wedding with a Piper, consider what type of “effect” you wish to create. The “Formal” effect requires the Piper to play the wedding processional and/or recessional, often remaining concealed until time to play. For the processional, the Piper begins the ceremony by piping in the Bride as she makes her grand entrance. For the recessional, the Piper will lead (or follow) the Bride and Groom as they make their exit. Once the Piper, Bride and Groom are outside, the pipes will be silenced and the organist can retire the rest of the wedding party. For anyone planning a wedding with one or more Pipers, do allow your MSPIPER to advise you on the technical and logistical aspects of including a Piper during the wedding ceremony. For example, it is best not to put the Piper in a stationary position up front near the altar or in a balcony when piping in the Bride, unless you have someone motioning the congregation to stand when the Bride makes her entrance. Otherwise, you may find the guests are focused on the Piper and the Bride will be almost to the front before anyone knows she is coming down the aisle. By positioning the Piper about five paces in front of the Bride, the people will hear the Pipes, turn around and see the Bride following behind, and will rise to their feet.
If a Piper is not desired for the actual wedding ceremony, consider stationing one or more Pipers outside of the church as a special surprise for the Bride and Groom as they exit. Or, one or more Pipers can be waiting for the Happy Couple as they arrive at the wedding reception. Your MSPIPER can advise you on how best to enlist his/her services. It should be noted, however, that the Great Highland Bagpipe is a very loud instrument with no volume control, so is best suited to outdoor performances. Although majestic, stirring, and regal in a large church sanctuary, the pipes quickly become overpowering in a smaller indoor venue such as a church or restaurant dining room where one bagpipe can quickly drown out casual conversations.
Fees and Booking: Weddings can be one of the most stressful events a Piper will play, which is why Pipers charge a bit more than for most other occasions. Often there are other requirements involved such as videos, pictures, intricate timing details, rehearsals, more dialogue, and receptions. Whether you are booking one, two or more Pipers for that special wedding, a non-refundable booking fee of $100 per Piper will be required to secure your event on his/her/their calendar. The booking fee will be deducted from the total price agreed upon between Piper and client. Payment of the booking fee shall be made by check or cash, with the remaining balance paid on the day of the event. Please refer to the “Fees and Services” page for rates and further details. Special requirements or duties that are not specifically listed may incur additional fees and should be agreed upon in writing at the time of booking.
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