Answer: Highland pipes generate quite a bit of sound. They are best suited for weddings and events out of doors, in large churches or halls, or large rooms or auditoriums. The more people in a space, the less likely the Highland pipes are to cause any problems with the volume.
Keep in mind that the pipes play at constant volume, with no ability to make them louder or softer. Volume can be controlled by carefully placing the piper in the space where the event is held.
Answer: Bruce Singleton will wear a kilt, sporran (the pouch on the front of the kilt), knee socks, gillie brogues (traditional footwear), belt, and glengarry cap for most performances. the top can depend on the weather and occasion: crisply pressed white or khaki shirt for outdoor events; green tweed jacket for formal events, day or evening; or uniform doublet with over-the-shoulder plaidie.
As to what's under the kilt?...well, that's an old Highland secret...
Answer: the demo tape contains a full one dozen tunes that make excellent choices for wedding ceremonies, particularly processionals and recessionals. There are also other tunes that are played as guests arrive and depart, as a medley.
Special requests can often be accommodated; however, keep in mind that while there are over 25,000 tunes written specifically for the Highland pipes, there are some pieces that are best left to church organs, pianos, or string quartets.
Answer: Most rates are on a flat-fee basis; however, location (including travel time) may have to be factored in. Generally, Bruce provides enough piping so that everyone can enjoy the full sound and effect of the Highland pipes--charging by an hourly basis can sometimes cut short a performance or cause problems in budgeting. Also, most weddings take place from April through the end of September--you can get a better rate for weddings during the time from October through February.
