   
Although nothing is carved in granite, funerals usually are played by a single piper. Some clients have requested a piper and drummer – to a very
lovely effect. Regardless, it is important that the piper be given as much notice as possible prior to the date and time of the service. If
possible, please contact me before final arrangements are made in case of conflict.
If a military detail is to be present, please refer to the Military page.
Piping can occur almost anytime during the church service and/or at graveside. Your denomination may have a few restrictions, so it is best to
consult your clergy first.
The most requested time during a church or chapel service is at the Recessional. The piper takes the lead position in front of the
mourners, playing as he exits the facility and continues to play until the deceased is placed into the hearse. It is considered good etiquette
for the piper to remain concealed until needed during the service. This ensures a memorable effect for those attending and his presence does not
distract from the service. I make it a point to arrive early enough to meet family members and let them be assured that I will be performing
as asked.
Again, there are no set protocols. I have piped the casket into the church and piped during mid-service. At smaller churches
or chapels, I've remained just outside to keep the pipes' volume level comfortable to the mourners.
In the Mid-South, piping takes place at graveside the majority of the time and this can be as many as three occasions. Any more at graveside and it begins to detract from whom the service is actually intended.
1) As the Funeral Procession arrives and the casket is carried to the grave by the pallbearers. 2) Upon completion of the minister’s words or final prayer (usually Amazing Grace at this time). 3) And at the Dismissal – from an appropriate distance the piper plays a selection, often slightly more upbeat musical selection. I always make certain to arrive at the cemetery ahead of the funeral entourage so tuning and site inspection can be performed. My post is usually a short distance from the gravesite area and remaining in view of the family seated under the canopy. A pre-arranged cue from a funeral director signals me to begin playing. The most requested tune at funerals is, of course, Amazing Grace. As said above, it’s typically piped after the minister has finished. My modus operandi is to perform it with three verses. Upon reaching the third verse, I turn around and walk away, while remaining in sight of the family. This creates a fading effect that is quite touching. Many associate religious symbolism with it. A client once asked me to do the opposite of the previous paragraph. She requested that I begin piping Amazing Grace at a distance from the graveside and walk towards it. She asked that I conclude upon reaching the grave. It too makes for a lovely effect. Traditionally, bagpipes are thought to contain almost-mystical powers. Supposedly the pipes are the only instrument that can be heard in Heaven. As a result, a piper playing bagpipes helps to speedily direct the departed souls towards Heaven’s Gates. The walking away symbolizes the piper leading the departed to the Hereafter, yet stopping short of the Gate through which he cannot pass. Should you desire a piper at your service, or at the service of a loved one in the future, I suggest the following: 1. Inform your family. Supply several of them with information so there will be no doubt. It is wise to inform the funeral home of your intent as well. In fact, the funeral director can make the initial piper contact for you. 2. Also, include the above information into the burial pre-arrangements. The funeral director, as the advocate, will notify a piper and take the burden of the initial contact, set-up, instructions, and other such matters away from the family. 3. In the event a piper simply cannot be secured for the funeral, there are other ways the memory of a loved one can be honored. It is standard practice in many churches that people are allowed to place flowers in memory of deceased family and friends. I have been asked by families to play during a regular worship service. Most churches would welcome the opportunity and with a prior announcement, it may be received by a host of listeners.
Special Considerations - Outside piping becomes more challenging when temperatures are in the 40’s and lower, or upper 80's and warmer. I am able to compensate, nonetheless, special considerations in extreme conditions may be warranted to insure a quality standard. - It is especially prudent to inform the funeral director that a piper will be present. Everyone, particularly the bereaved, is well served by this. At graveside is hardly the place for a 'surprise'.
- Funerals usually have little notice and it's not unusual for me to have two, or even three scheduled the same day. Please provide as much advance
notice as possible, even before final plans are made so that details can be worked with you.
Final Note I have performed at many graveside services when the air temp was above 100 degrees. Likewise, I've piped at wintry services with freezing temperatures as low as 11 degrees.
Please do not deny yourself my services at a loved one's funeral because of intemperate weather and concern for my well being. I have the
expertise, clothing, and experience to make certain I'm on top of my game and able to perform as you require.
 
© Copyright 2008-2012 ~ J. Stephen Sanders
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