Losing someone close is one of the hardest things any of us goes through. When it comes to arranging the funeral, there are a lot of decisions to make in a short space of time. If you are considering having a bagpiper as part of the service, you are in the right place. This guide explains everything you need to know about booking a piper for a funeral in Scotland, from the first phone call through to the day itself.
Why Families Choose a Bagpiper for a Funeral
The sound of the bagpipes carries a weight that is hard to put into words. For many Scottish families, having a piper at a funeral is a long-standing tradition that gives a proper send-off to someone they love. For others, it might be because the person who passed had a connection to Scotland, served in the military, or simply loved the pipes.
Whatever your reason, a bagpiper adds something deeply personal and moving to a funeral service. The music creates a moment that people remember long after the day is over.
When to Get in Touch
The earlier you can make contact, the better. Funerals are often arranged within a matter of days, and pipers can get booked up quickly, particularly around public holidays and at busy times of year. As soon as you know the date and location of the service, it is worth reaching out to secure your booking.
At Scottish Funeral Pipers, we understand that families are often dealing with a lot when they first get in touch. We make the booking process as straightforward as possible and are happy to talk through everything at whatever pace suits you.
What Information You Will Need
When you contact a piper, it helps to have a few details ready. These do not all need to be confirmed at the initial enquiry stage, but the more you can provide, the easier it is to get everything organised:
- The date, time, and location of the service
- Whether it is a cremation, burial, or church service (or a combination)
- Any specific music requests you have in mind
- How long you would like the piper to play
If you are unsure about any of these, that is fine. A good piper will guide you through the options and help you figure out what will work best for your family.
Choosing Where the Piper Plays
One of the most common questions families ask is where the piper should be positioned during the service. There is no single right answer, and it very much depends on the type of funeral you are having.
For a cremation service, the piper will typically meet the cortege in the driveway and lead the cars in to the crematorium. They can also play as the coffin enters, during the committal, and as the family leaves.
For a burial service, the piper can play as the cortege arrives at the cemetery, as the coffin is carried to the graveside, during the lowering, and at the close of the ceremony, piping a lament and gradually walking away so the music fades naturally into the distance.
If the service starts at the family home or a church, the piper can be present there too, either as the cortege departs or as mourners gather before the service begins.
Music Choices
You do not need to be an expert on bagpipe music to choose something meaningful. Most people have a piece in mind, even if they cannot name it. Common choices for funerals include Amazing Grace, Flowers of the Forest, and Going Home, but there are many others.
If you are not sure, your piper will be happy to make suggestions based on what feels right for the occasion. The goal is always to match the music to the person being remembered.
What to Expect on the Day
On the day of the funeral, your piper will arrive ahead of time and be ready in position before the cortege arrives. They will follow the plan you agreed and adapt if anything changes on the day, as funerals rarely run to the exact minute.
The piper's role is to support your family and fit in with everything else that has been planned. They are there to serve the occasion, not to take it over.
Working with Your Funeral Director
If you are going through a funeral director, they may be able to recommend a piper or handle the booking on your behalf. Equally, you can book directly with a specialist like Scottish Funeral Pipers and let your funeral director know who you have arranged. Either way works well.
The Scottish Association of Funeral Directors can help you find a reputable funeral director in Scotland if you are still in the early stages of making arrangements.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to hire a bagpiper for a funeral?
Prices vary depending on the location, length of time required, and the specific services involved. The best approach is to get in touch for a no-obligation quote based on your exact requirements.
How far in advance do I need to book?
As early as possible is always best. Even a day or two's notice can sometimes be accommodated, but availability cannot be guaranteed at short notice.
Can the piper attend the whole funeral?
Yes. The piper can attend the family home, religious service, and the cremation or burial, either separately or as a full package. The combination is entirely up to you.
Do I need to provide anything for the piper on the day?
No. The piper will bring everything they need. You just need to let them know where to be and when.
What if I am not sure which music to choose?
That is completely normal. Your piper can go through the options with you and suggest pieces that suit the tone of the service. There is no pressure to decide everything upfront.