FUNERALS AND MEMORIALS

When looking for a bagpiper for a funeral or memorial service, my experience will help you find the best way to include the music. A Funeral or memorial service is a solemn event, and you have several options where to include music. Here are a few examples from my experience. You can use one or more of these, to ensure the service meets your family’s needs to honour your loved one.

Welcoming the mourners – A selection of slow airs on the bagpipes can welcome mourners as they arrive for the ceremony and set the solemn mood for the upcoming service. This can be done both at the church or hall where the memorial service is to take place; and at the place of burial.

Transfer of the Remains – After the service, bagpipes can accompany the party moving the remains to the vehicle which will transport them to the burial site. Similarly, if the remains are moved from the funeral home to a service, bagpipes can provide music during the transfer.

A Lament – During the service at the church or hall, or at the burial site, a lament is appropriate to bid farewell to the departed. “Amazing Grace” is the tune most commonly requested at this time, since it is instantly recognized and well-loved. If the service is for a military member or veteran, “Flowers of the Forest” is traditional.

Playing for the Living – After the service is completed, more upbeat tunes can be played to restore the mood of the people in attendance to let them carry on with their day.

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