Services and rates:
I’m glad to play bagpipes for any event where that might be appreciated. Bagpipes are often included in weddings, funerals, and birthdays, but I’d be open to discussion of any other events.
The basic rate for my bagpiping is $250/hour. That means $250 for a 1 hour event (not playing continuously for 1 hour). Typically a 1 hour event will include 3-5 tunes, with each tune lasting 2-5 minutes. Most people are not looking for a 1 hour bagpipe recital, they are looking for a few bagpipe tunes to enhance the event. Please consider the points in your event where a bagpipe tune would be appreciated. I’ll work with you to help choose those points and appropriate tunes. I will also work with any venue or event manager to make certain that the bagpiping is smoothly integrated into the event.
The 1 hour event charge includes all travel and set up time (travel up to 30 minutes from Americus). If you have an event within 30 minutes travel from Americus that only lasts about 1 hour the charge will only be $250. But, I will arrive early, set up my pipes and warm up, and be in position and prepared to play for the entire event.
If you are looking for a longer bagpipe program that’s also possible. The bagpipes are physically demanding instrument and I can’t play continuously for 1 hour. I can play for 10-15 minutes with very brief pauses between tunes and then resume after a couple of minutes rest. The charge would be the same for this sort of program.
If your event lasts substantially longer than 1 hour or the travel is substantially longer than 30 minutes the charge will be higher.
For events scheduled two weeks away or more, I request a $100 deposit to reserve the date. The balance will be due two weeks before the event. For events scheduled with less than two weeks notice the entire fee is due when we agree on the schedule.
Cheers,
J. Kelly McCoy
jkellypiper@gmail.com
YouTube Channel