DUNCAN GRANT - BAGPIPER: WEDDING & EVENTS MUSICIAN
I started playing the Great Highland Bagpipe from a very young age, beginning competing at competitions aged 7 years old. When I was 16 I won the Overall Junior Prize at the Northern Meeting competition, which is the highest level competition in the world for bagpipes. I have also won the ‘Young Piper of the Year’ competition and many other prizes over the years.
In addition to taking part in the competitions, I have composed a wide variety of music for the bagpipes and other instruments, many of which have been commissioned for concert performances. I have also played for the Queen and the late Queen Mother.
From the audio clips on this website you can hear the high standard of playing that I maintain. These tunes were recorded for the BBC Scotland ‘Pipeline’ radio programme.
I can of course play any of the classic tunes such as Highland Cathedral, Auld Lang Syne and Amazing Grace, but I think that these clips show that I can also play more complex tunes as well if desired. I specialise in traditional Scottish music and also traditional Celtic music (playing Irish tunes as well).
A PROFESSIONAL BAGPIPER FOR ANY OCCASION
PERFORMANCE VARIETY
Weddings, Burns nights, Corporate Events, Concerts
PERFORMANCE VARIETY
I would be delighted to assist with any requirements that you might have, including weddings, Burns suppers, St. Andrews Day performances or corporate events of any kind. In addition to the performance, I also accept commissions for compositions, which can be a particularly special way to celebrate a wedding for example, as a framed copy of the tune together with a performance on the evening could be presented to the wedding couple.
I have also worked with professional composers, such as Anna Meredith, both in writing and performing music to large audiences. No matter what the ask is, if you need a piper, send me a message!
His piping was phenomenal; he really wowed the guests and it was one of the most memorable parts of our wedding. Phillipa Bonnet
Having Duncan at our wedding was truly unforgettable. His performance added a unique, beautiful touch that elevated the entire day and set the perfect tone for our celebration. Our guests absolutely loved his performance both during and after the service as well as engaging with him directly. We can’t recommend him enough. Andrew Shaw
FAQs
Which areas do you travel to?
Not only have I played nationwide in many parts of England and Scotland, but I have also been hired to play outside of the UK - for many events in Europe. Typically, clients require a London bagpiper, and hires are in my this local area, but I also frequently play elsewhere in the south east, such as Kent or Surrey. As mentioned though, I am very happy to travel further for any special event.
Can you provide guidance for what tunes to play at a wedding ceremony and also when to play?
I have played at many weddings over the years and I ensure to treat each event as bespoke, so your big day is completely unique. Typically I focus on traditional Scottish music, but I have also played many renditions of modern music as well, if it can be played in the correct scale. I always discuss beforehand the specific requirements and arrive early at the venue. On almost all occasions, I will pipe the bride and groom in for the wedding dinner (as per tradition), but I am also often asked to play when guests arrive.
Can we hire you for a corporate events?
Certainly. I can provide first class musicianship for any occasion and not only in England, Scotland, Wales or Northern Ireland. I have played for many corporate burns suppers, office openings, St. Andrews Day celebrations and other special occasions.
Do you compose bespoke music for events?
I am a composer as well as a performer, so if you would like a tune written specially for an event I would be happy to work on that.
Can you address the haggis at Burns Night?
Normally I just play traditional tunes on the bagpipes for Burns night, as to have a proper address to the Haggis, it is good to have someone with lots of experience at doing this.
Do you work alone or with other London bagpipers?
I tend to work alone, but I know many other pipers in the area. If I am not available for a booking, I can contact another bagpiper based in London to try to help.
Do you play for funerals?
I do play for funerals. I know some truly beautiful ancient Gaelic airs that are very suitable for this.
What outfit do you wear for events?
I wear my family tartan (Clan Grant) and also a very smart tweed waistcoat and jacket, as can be seen in the pictures on this website.
