When a young couple in love thinks of an outdoor wedding and chooses the beach, they have an amazing backdrop of sand, surf, sun and sky. The informality of the beach can be juxtaposed with the beauty of a bride with bridal party, either formal or casual. Music for a beach wedding can be equally fascinating. Some couples choose canned sound system with recorded music. Safe bet as even a small breeze can muffle the sound of live musicians. Violin and cello are beautiful with lilting strains of classical music. Guitar work well when amplified. But rarely does the sound equal that of the bagpipes.
The bagpipes at a beach seems to me to match the beauty of the surroundings. Waves rolling in, clouds rolling by and the stirring sound of the highland bagpipes as the bride accompanied by her Father walks down between rows of family and friends to an outdoor alter of sorts. And should the couple have ties to a Celtic background then the scene will be complete when the piper strikes in.
Almost any tune that is upbeat and grand will work for either stately processional or joyous recessional. Highland Cathedral, or Green Hills, Mairi’s Wedding, Simple Gifts / “Lord of the Dance”, Highland Laddie or a hymn such as “Be Thou my Vision” played at a tempo of the bride’s choice works.
The challenge for a piper is with the potential for temperature swings which can cause the bagpipes to go out of tune. Special care needs to be taken to keep the pipes stable. Warm and cold swings as clouds move through, as beautiful as the picture is, may cause the pipes to go out. The other consideration is that too much wind may stop a drone from playing lessening the full sound of the pipes. Playing facing into the wind (if the wind is blustery) is best, but the venue will dictate your position.
The piper is there for the bride and groom. Anything I can do to make their special day just that much better, I will do. I always suggest meeting the bride ahead of time to discuss. Even have a “Bagpipe Tasting” for the couple. Just as one might taste cake options at a bakery for the wedding cake, I like to think that a couple wants to get a sense (or taste) of what I bring to the wedding ceremony. So setting aside time to play for them gives a connection with them.
Weddings are THE most fun to play for and be a part of. Whether for the ceremony or for the reception, I love being a part of such a special day. Beaches aren’t just for picnics and splashing in the waves, but are a lovely venue for nuptials; Bagpipes optional!
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