How much does a piper cost?
That depends. Local is less than out of town (with certain selective exceptions such as towns in the region where the band either has members or else where the band can connect you with a local piper in the other location). Short is less than long. For instance, paying a piping to stand around for an extended length of time between the service and the reception will add to the fee. More experienced players run more than less experience. The more experience players have been playing longer, performed at more weddings, tend to be scheduled farther in advance, and are otherwise more selective in the performances they can accept. Traditional standard tunes are less than tunes that require arrangements or new settings. Simple programs are less than more elaborate programs that require the piper to attend the rehearsal to work out the details. LPB will not send out send out a piper who is not up to the task. That means on time, and in tune. One may come across pipers not affiliated with LPB who may charge less. This is where one must decide if one's wedding is really the best place to go with the "lowest bid" or if quality is foremost. Regardless of the cost, the effect of having a piper as a part of your wedding will be remembered long after anyone has any idea how much the centerpieces cost. When you're creating memories, that may be the most important thing to consider.
How long in advance do I need to book a piper?
Longer is better than shorter. Some dates are no problem where other dates may conflict with band travel or performances. In those instances it is best to have as much notice as possible so as to resolve scheduling conflicts. Generally however, 2-3 months in advance is adequate. Shorter notice is sometimes possible but gets riskier regarding availability.
How long will the piper play?
A 30 minute performance window (First note to last note of performance) is standard. The piper would rarely play for 30 consecutive minutes but could do so if required. Longer commitments are available but generally result in a higher fee.
What tunes will the piper play?
Traditional tunes they know well are the standard. If you have a special request you would want to let the piper know as far in advance as possible so they may acquire and learn the tune (at least a month). Click on some of the tunes below played by members of our band to hear some suggestions. Again, please
e-mail us if you have any questions.
(These are just suggestions, if you have other ideas in mind or are after a particular mood or feel, please consult your piper.) For some examples, visit our tunes page.
