Business Details
26 Years
experience
Award-Winning Scottish Piper for Weddings & Events
Craig Irving Scottish Piper has dedicated over two decades to mastering the art of traditional Scottish piping, bringing cultural heritage to life at weddings and special events across Scotland and internationally. Based in Gretna Green, Craig combines professionalism with a warm, approachable manner, having performed at thousands of ceremonies including weddings, funerals, and cultural festivals. Recognised as Best Piper by the Scottish Confetti Wedding Awards in 2020 and 2023, he offers unique services such as smallpipes, digital bagpipes for indoor events, and full Highland Dress attire.Craig's expertise extends beyond performance, including teaching, charity work, and media appearances, while maintaining a commitment to personalisation through client-selected tartans and musical repertoires. His reputation for reliability and excellence has earned recommendations from venues, suppliers, and countless satisfied clients worldwide.
Services
Wedding Piper
Funeral Services
Burns Suppers
Ceilidhs
Galas
Venue Openings
Charity Events
Cultural Exhibitions
Private Parties
Receptions
Details
- Year established: 2000
Highlights and features
- 20 years' experience performing at weddings and special events
- Only local piper offering bellows-blown smallpipes for indoor events
- Awarded Best Piper by Scottish Confetti Wedding Awards twice
- Provides full Highland Dress attire at no extra charge
- Offers international travel for special occasions
Associations and certifications
- Scottish Confetti Wedding Awards
What people say
World class piper
Immaculately dressed
Professional and friendly
Made our day special
Highly recommended
Services
Wedding Piper
Craig provides traditional bagpipe performances for wedding ceremonies, playing as guests arrive, during the couple's entrance, and following the ceremony. He offers full Highland Dress attire, smallpipes for indoor venues, and client-selected musical repertoires. With 20 years' experience, Craig adapts to various settings from castles to beaches, ensuring punctuality and professionalism at every event.
Funeral Services
Craig performs solemn bagpipe music for funerals and memorial services, specialising in traditional laments and client-requested pieces. His respectful approach includes advising on appropriate musical selections and performance timing. Available for cemetery services, scattering ceremonies, and indoor memorials, Craig maintains the cultural significance of piping in remembrance events while adhering to modern requirements.
Digital Bagpipes
This service provides amplified electronic bagpipes suitable for indoor venues, meeting health regulations while maintaining authentic sound quality. Introduced in 2020, it allows masked performances at weddings and events without compromising acoustic integrity. The digital system enables volume control for intimate settings like signing registers or reception presentations.
Pipergram Service
Craig offers surprise piping performances for special occasions, including doorstep appearances and event interruptions. Popular during lockdown periods, this service creates memorable moments for birthdays, anniversaries, and socially distanced celebrations. Pricing varies based on location and performance complexity, with custom arrangements available upon request.
Cultural Exhibitions
Craig represents Scottish culture at international exhibitions and events, having performed at South Korea's cultural showcase and Commonwealth Games ceremonies. This service includes traditional attire and repertoire education alongside performances. Travel arrangements require prior booking, with Craig having experience in global logistics and event coordination for cultural presentations.
People
Craig Irving Scottish Piper
Principal Piper
Award-winning piper with 20 years' experience, member of College of Piping, former Pipe Major of Burgh of Langholm Pipe Band for 17 years. Featured in media and recipient of multiple wedding industry awards.
Questions
What services does Craig Irving offer?
Craig provides bagpipe performances for weddings, funerals, Burns Suppers, ceilidhs, galas, venue openings, and cultural exhibitions. Additional services include digital bagpipes, smallpipes, and Pipergram surprise appearances.
How much does Craig charge for weddings?
Wedding packages start at £80, with smallpipes supplement at £30 and digital bagpipes from £80. Prices vary for Pipergram services and special requests.
Can Craig perform internationally?
Yes, Craig travels globally for special events, having performed in South Korea and at Commonwealth Games ceremonies. International bookings require prior arrangement.
What makes Craig's service unique?
Craig offers smallpipes (softer indoor option), full Highland Dress attire, and client-selected tartans. He's the only local piper providing digital bagpipes for indoor events while maintaining traditional sound quality.
Is Craig available for non-wedding events?
Yes, Craig plays at funerals, Burns Suppers, birthday parties, venue openings, charity events, and cultural exhibitions. He also offers surprise Pipergram appearances for special occasions.
What awards has Craig won?
Craig received the Scottish Confetti Wedding Awards' Best Piper title in 2020 and 2023. He led Langholm Pipe Band to victory at the 2009 Braemar Royal Highland Gathering.
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