Q: Is there a difference between one piper and another?

A: Yes.

Q: How do I tell the difference?

A: First, listen to a sample of the music. It should be pleasing to the ear- the sound should be smooth. For example, try singing along with the sample to a melody that you know like Amazing Grace. If you feel you can sing along with it and it sounds like it should, you have hit the jackpot. You can also ask the piper several questions like how long they have been performing and what “grade” (see below) piper they are.

The governing body for competing pipers in the Eastern United States is called the Eastern United States Pipe Band Association. This body has set guidelines by which pipers compete against one another. This is very helpful to you as a potential customer since it gives you a pre-set guideline to gauge if the musician is of a “professional” quality.

There are six grades and they are as follows:

Grade 5

This is the bottom grade and consists of beginner pipers. This is the entry grade. Many “street/parade bands” come under this grade.

Grade 4

By this time the piper usually has at least a couple of years experience. The judging focus at this grade is correct finger technique and the ability to play simple tunes.

Grade 3

By this time musical expression, timing, and bagpipe sound are gaining importance as well as accurate fingering technique. The piper has usually been playing for over four or five years at this point.

Grade 2

All of the above are important in this grade but a higher degree of ability is required to be successful.

**This is the lowest grade I would personally suggest for a piper to be hired.**

Grade 1

This is the semi-professional grade. By this time the piper has usually been playing for over 8 years.

Open Professional Grade

This is the professional grade of pipers. To reach this level you have to have demonstrated a very high level of piping ability. These pipers are very hard to come by and may charge more than other pipers. However the cost is well worth it.

It is important to hire a professional or semi-professional level musician. Aside from knowing the tunes, playing them well and handling the pressure of an audience, a piper needs to know how to adjust his or her pipes in adverse conditions, have a back up pipes and equipment, etc. You don't bury a man twice! If you mess up a funeral, there are no second chances; you will ruin the family's experience forever. The same theory applies with weddings.

Personally, I believe a piper should be at least a Grade II piper before taking gigs. No piper is better than a bad piper.