About Paul
Over 30 Years of Professional Experience
South West Bagpiper
I am passionate about bringing the rich tradition of Scottish and Irish music to life through the power of the Highland Bagpipes.
Hello, I’m Paul, also known as the South West Bagpiper, ready to bring the rich, evocative sound of the Highlands to your special occasion. Whether it’s a joyous wedding, a heartfelt farewell, or a lively celebration, the bagpipes add a unique and unforgettable element to your event.
With over 30 years of experience, I’ve had the privilege of playing for countless ceremonies across Devon, Cornwall, Somerset, and Dorset. My passion for piping goes beyond just playing music—it’s about creating an atmosphere, stirring emotions, and leaving a lasting impression on everyone present. Whether you envision a grand entrance at your wedding, a respectful and dignified tribute at a funeral, or a burst of lively tunes at a party, I’m here to help make your day truly special.
The bagpipes are more than just an instrument; they’re a tradition, a connection to a rich cultural heritage, and a powerful way to enhance the mood of any event. I offer a wide repertoire of Scottish and Irish tunes, from rousing jigs to haunting slow airs, each carefully chosen to suit the occasion. Let’s work together to make your event memorable and meaningful, filled with the beautiful sounds of the bagpipes.
Explore the rest of my website to learn more about how I can add a touch of Celtic magic to your event, and feel free to reach out to discuss your specific needs. I’m truly looking forward to being part of your special day!
Media Gallery
Browse my Media Gallery. It’s the perfect way to see and hear how the Highland Bagpipes can add that special touch to your day, making it truly unforgettable.
Video
Paul leads the bridal party to the ceremony playing Highland Cathedral
Piping in the Haggis - Burn's Night
Audio
I am happy to help with tune selection, or I can construct a programme to suit the occasion if needed – just ask.
There’s no right or wrong selection of tunes for any occasion, it is more a question of what you prefer.
Choice of Outfit - You May Choose
I offer a choice of three Highland attire options to suit your event or personal preference.
You can opt for the formal No. 1 Dress, which includes the striking tall feather bonnet, or the slightly less formal No. 2 Dress. For a more relaxed look, there’s the Smart/Informal Highland Dress. Each outfit features the iconic elements of Full Highland Dress, including the tartan kilt, sporran pouch, and traditional accessories, ensuring that my appearance complements the significance and style of your occasion.
No.1 Dress
No. 2 Dress
Smart/Informal Highland Dress
Each dress outfit is available in both tartans.
What do the different Tartans mean?
Clan Robertson Tartan
The Robertson tartan, also known as the Clan Donnachaidh tartan, is a visually striking pattern that symbolises the clan’s strength, courage, and enduring spirit. The tartan’s colours reflect the landscapes and loyalties of the clan’s history, and include rich red, navy blue, and forest green. The tartan also features a dexter hand holding an imperial crown, and the clan’s motto, Virtutis Gloria Merces, which translates to “Glory is the reward of valour”. The clan’s badge is a bracken or fern.
The Robertson clan claims to be the oldest Scottish clan, with roots that can be traced back to the ancient Celtic Earls of Athol. The clan’s name comes from Robert “Riabhach” (“Grizzled”) Duncanson, who captured and killed the assassins of King James I. James II awarded the clan crest to honour this act. The clan’s first recognized chief was Donnachaidh Reamhar, “Stout Duncan”, who led the clan at the Battle of Bannockburn in 1314. The clan supported both Robert I during the Wars of Scottish Independence and Robert the Bruce at the Battle of Bannockburn.
In 1816, the chief sealed a set of tartan as the Robertson Hunting Ancient Tartan, also known as the “Hunting Robertson”. This tartan is thought to be ancient and resembles the “Athol Murray”, and is only used by the Robertsons of the North.
Heritage of Scotland Tartan
The “Heritage of Scotland” tartan is a generic tartan that celebrates Scottish heritage, rather than being associated with a specific clan or family. It’s inspired by traditional Scottish tartan colours and designs.
Tartan is a distinctive woven fabric pattern that’s been a Scottish icon for centuries. The word “tartan” comes from the French word tartaine, which means “checked cloth”. The Gaelic word for tartan is Breacan, which means “chequered”. Early tartans were simple checks with two or three colours, and the dyes came from local plants, roots, berries, and trees. Weavers used pattern sticks, or maide dalbh, to identify each colour of each thread.
Traditionally, each Scottish clan had its own unique tartan pattern, which was often passed down through generations and used to distinguish clan members. The association of tartan with different clans and family names became a concept around 1815, but some historians consider this idea to be fictional.
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Piping Hot
I also play the Highland and Border bagpipes, melodeon, flute, whistle and bodhran with the upbeat barn dance and Ceilidh band Piping Hot.
Playing lively Scottish, Celtic and Irish jigs and reels or rhythmic English dance tunes in either traditional or contemporary style – what a way to end the day’s celebrations!
