Biography
"Pipes are my dream
and my passion"
Where did you grow up?
I grew up in Northern Ireland with my mum, dad, and seven siblings.
When did you start to play the Bagpipes?
At the age of 11. My mother had always played records featuring the bagpipes ;
It was her dream to play or have me learn to play the bagpipes. Mum sourced a local pipe band where we attended together and I suppose I have been in love with the pipes ever since.
What is it about the bagpipes that inspire you?
I love the stirring sound they create which envelopes the occasion allowing the outside world to be silenced for a moment. The haunting sound that travels across the valleys. As a child, I would watch the Edinburgh Tattoo and remember being mesmerized by the massed pipes and drums.
Do you play any other instruments?
I have tried the guitar, piano and tin whistles, however, the bagpipes are my main passion, of which I currently have 3 sets, one of which is an electric set, having the ability to adjust sounds and volume via a PA and a small set of Shepherd's in the key of D and A. I started with the recorder when I was 11 years old
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Have you always played the pipes?
Yes, I have. However, I did have a break when I had children.
Do you currently play with a band?
No, I retired from Competitions in 2016 once I reached Grade 2 level. Now having settled in Northern Ireland over last year I have concentrated on learning alternative ways to enjoy the bagpipes.
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What has been the best moment in your piping career?
Difficult to answer as there have been many. Recently, I Piped for a lady's 80th Birthday, the family was struggling to do something special as felt due to current circumstances (Covid-19) they would be unable to. I "was the answer to their prayers" according to her son John. They booked me as a Pipeagram to play outside their mums home, and not only did the mother enjoy, but all her neighbours came out to wish her a wonderful birthday as they had heard stirring sound of the bagpipes. It was a wonderful day and a privilege to have been the conductor of such happiness. other memorable occasions have been, performing with Don Mescall on stage in Londons Leicester Squire and in Limerick with Gary Broker alongside Don Mescall, the Edinburgh Tattoo, Her Majesty the Queen’s 90th birthday celebrations in Windsor Castle. writing a program and performing Music for Dementia in local care homes, to see those with Dementia, come alive and dance, sing and engage whilst the music plays is just a true wonder for which I have no words to describe.
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What sort of events do you like to play at?
I enjoy the variety of piping opportunities, Private Pipeagram personal events, Music Festivals, Dementia groups. Funerals, weddings, Tattoos, Burns Nights along with New Year’s Eve gatherings.
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Why should someone book you?
Having an abundance of experience and being well taught in the traditional art of Bagpipes. I am passionate about the music I create and I care about creating the right setting with personal tunes for the occasion. No two events are the same and it is important to create the right atmosphere. I always approach each engagement individually, tailoring a playlist for a client’s needs. I am a very personable person and more than happy to talk and advise to help provide the appropriate service for a client. I am very flexible and adaptable
What tunes do you have to offer?
My collection is vast, from traditional to Sing-along, to personal choices which I am always open to learning new tunes at a client’s request, which are right for an occasion.
What are your favorite tunes to play?
Amazing Grace, Flower of Scotland and Highland Cathedral is the most requested. I also love the Dark Isle for its stirring sound along with most Airs and ballads. Equally, I have a passion for sing-a-long songs - Music for Dementia is so valuable as it can evoke many fond memories all be it for brief moments and so rewarding to all.
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Where do you play?
I am based near in Co. Down, Northern Ireland. I am happy to travel to play and have recently commenced Pipeagram, to bring joy and happiness to those who could not otherwise celebrate their special occasion during Covid-19. I travel to the person's home to perform outside, with a selection of tunes appropriate for the recipient as this can evoke fond memories. It is fantastic to see the joy not only from the recipient but of that of their neighbour's all who appear at the sound of the bagpipes which in turn help celebrate with that of their neighbour's whos surprise it is.
How can someone book you for an occasion?
They can get in touch with me through my contacts page on this website, my mob phone, just send a text or just drop me a line if only to ask me any questions. No request too small or