Frequently asked questions
Below are some of the most commonly asked questions when booking a piper. Every event is unique and Simon can tailor your requirements to make sure your special occasion is a memorable one
Can I book directly?
Yes, Simon works direct with clients from the initial enquiry, to the day of the event. Whereas agencies take a percentage, the quote you get is the price you pay with no add-ons. Simon is also available at short-notice and can fulfil last-minute bookings (subject to availability)
Which tartans do you wear?
Simon wears primarily wears Modern Gordon. Ramsey Blue is worn strictly for his role as Piper to the City of Hereford. A different version- Ramsey Blue Ancient is available and is a popular tartan for weddings. Simon also offers Royal Stewart and Flower of Scotland tartans. All of these are worn with either a black wool Argyll Jacket and vest or Lovat Green/Grey tweed Braemar and vest. Full No1 Dress is only worn for very high-profile engagements.
What tunes do you play?
Simon has a large repertoire of traditional pipe tunes, from marches, slow airs, laments, reels, strathspeys, jigs, hornpipes etc. Simon can also play traditional and modern Breton, Welsh, Cornish, English tunes etc and is open to adapting modern and popular tunes to fit the occasion.
How far do you travel?
Simon typically covers a 70 mile radius of Hereford, which covers a large area including Herefordshire, Shropshire, Worcestershire, Gloucestershire, Warwickshire, Somerset, Bath & Bristol, The West Midlands, Birmingham, Powys, Monmouthshire, Torfaen and Gwent. Simon is also available to travel and he has also performed as far as Cornwall, Devon, London, Surrey, North Wales and South Yorkshire. Travel & accommodation costs are included in your quote for the event.
Do you cover South Wales?
Yes, Simon is ideally placed to cover South & Mid Wales, and has several connections with the area. He has piped for functions in Abergavenny, Aberystwyth, Brecon, Builth Wells, Bridgend, Cardiff, Caerphilly, Cwmbran, Bridgend, Hay on Wye, Monmouth, Neath, Swansea, Pontypool and as far north as Aberystwyth, Newtown, Welshpool, Tywyn, St Asaph & Rhyl.
How long have you been playing the pipes?
Since 2000. Piping has been Simon's passion and became hooked on the sound of the pipes as a small boy. Already a skilled musician (Trumpet & Cornet) He finally got the chance to learn at the age of 19 and since then, he has become a very driven and dedicated Highland Piper.
Do you teach the pipes?
Yes, Simon offers 1-to-1 tuition either online or in-person. All you need is a good quality Scottish made practice chanter and a willingness to learn what is a very difficult and challenging instrument. Simon teaches from a beginner to a more intermediate level and has experience of teaching in a pipe band environment. Typically, a learner will spend around 12 months on the practice chanter to starting the pipes proper. Advice and full instruction can be given to anyone- from choosing a practice chanter to a full set of pipes.
Where can I hear you play?
Hear Simon play live in Hereford Cathedral right here-