Funerals and Memorial Services
I have played for many funeral and memorial services. In
fact, in 2005 I provided bagpipe music for just under 100 such
services, and in every
case I gained a tremendous feeling of satisfaction in knowing that my
music moved those present and helped them as they celebrated the life
of their loved ones.
There are many places in which bagpipe music can very appropriately be
incorporated into a funeral service.
At the Funeral Home:
- Bagpipe music is perfect for starting off a memorial service at
the funeral home.
- Bagpipes can be played during a moment of reflection.
- They can be used to close the memorial service.
- They can provide a musical background during the final
pass-by and farewell.
At the Church:
- Bagpipe music can greet friends and family as they gather for the
service.
- Bagpipes can provide the music for the processional. The piper
can lead the casket up the aisle or he can stand at the front of the
church.
- Bagpipes can be played during a moment of reflection.
- Bagpipes can provide the music for the recessional. Again, the
piper can lead the casket down the aisle or he can stand at the front
of the church. When I lead the casket out of the church, I generally
continue playing until the casket is in the hearse and the door of the
hearse is closed. If there is to be no funeral procession, I generally
continue playing until the hearse has driven away and is out of view.
At the Cemetery:
- Bagpipe music can greet friends and family as they gather at the
graveside or chapel.
- Bagpipes can provide music as the casket is carried to the grave
or into the chapel.
- They can be used to close the service.
- Weather permitting, I like to play a medley of appropriate tunes
– generally more upbeat, but still somewhat reflective in nature – as
family and friends are departing.
These are only some ideas among very many. I am always happy to work
with family, funeral directors, and church personnel in tailoring my
offering to the specific desires of the family