Paying the Piper
Like any other professional instrumentalist, Bagpipers have a lot of money tied up in the costs of the bagpipe, the uniform, maintenance of both and practicing to reach a professional level.
With the years of experience we have, we can say, without question, that the simplest performance (playing one tune) takes just as much time in preparation (warming up, dressing, traveling) as compare to playing for a few or more hours.
Hours of Prep Time
Minimum time spent for any Bagpiper from start to finish is easily 3-4 hours.
Typical Example:
Hiring a Bagpiper for one tune at a wedding or funeral that starts at 4pm.
From the Bagpiper’s perspective:
- 12:00pm – Warm up bagpipes.
- 1:00pm – Dress in uniform.
- 2:00pm – Leave for the church. This allows in hour of travel in late afternoon.
- 3:00pm – Arrive at the church one hour before. This guarantees a timely start and allows time to check the “layout” for unforeseen issues and final tune up of the bagpipes.
- 4:00pm – Piping begins
Comparable Costs
- $100-$300 per hour for DJ.
- $100-$350 Organist service fees. (one hour for service only)
- $400 Harpist fees for one hour before wedding reception.
With the information above, you should be able to create a budget with regards to hiring a Bagpiper.
All Bagpipers Are Not Equal
OK, I got the budget, now how can I tell one Bagpiper’s talents from another?
All Bagpipers have the opportunity to develop their skills through competitions. Bagpipe competitions are set to different grade levels.
These grade levels are as follows:
- Grade V through Grade I are amateur
- Grade “Open” is “Professional”.
Data below is from the Western United States Pipe Band Association.
- Grade V – Not listed
- Grade IV – 57% of the bagpipers you hear are at this rank. These Bagpipers may or may not be able to tune their pipes.
- Grade III – 28% Bagpipers play at this level. Must be able to tune their own bagpipes.
- Grade II – 9% Bagpipers should be able to play tunes from Jigs, Reels, Hornpipes, and other tunes.
- Grade I – 4% Crop without the cream.
- Open – 2% Cream of the crop.
All Bagpipers Are Not Equal
What to ask before hiring:
1) What level do you (bagpiper) currently compete in?
Our answer: Grade 1/Open (Highest Level)
2) Do you (bagpiper) have any recordings of you piping that we can hear?
Our answer: Yes
If the price is “too good” to be true, listen to a recording of them. Then listen to one of our recordings. If you cannot tell the difference, then you should have a good Bagpiper.
From start up to finish, the Bagpipe should sound pleasant, warm, exciting, not loud, harsh, high pitched and squeaky.
Comparing Bagpipers: Grade 1 to Grade 4
Comparing Tyge Cawthon and to other bagpipers involves looking at two different levels of the solo bagpipe grading system. While both are experienced professionals in Michigan, they hold different competitive ratings that reflect distinct technical skill sets.
Skill Comparison by Grade
| Feature | Cawthon (Open Professional) | (Grade 4) |
|---|---|---|
| Experience Level | Open Professional: The highest amateur level before turning Professional. | Intermediate: A common grade for experienced pipers who focus on performance over competition. |
| Technical Accuracy | Expected to play without error with crisp, perfectly consistent embellishments. | Focuses on correct finger technique and steady blowing; minor errors are common in competition. |
| Tuning Ability | Must fine-tune both the drones and the chanter perfectly without outside help. | Can tune drones to a balanced chanter, though may not reach “perfect” harmony in all conditions. |
| Musical Complexity | Masters complex forms like MSR (March, Strathspey, and Reel) and full Piobaireachd. | Generally plays simpler marches and slow airs; often limited to partial Piobaireachd in competition. |
| Repertoire | Must submit multiple sets of complex tunes for judges to choose from on the spot. | Typically performs a pre-set selection of 2/4 marches or slow tunes. |
Who should you hire?
Both pipers are well-regarded in the Michigan piping community, but their strengths suit different needs:
- Tyge Cawthon is the go-to for high-stakes events traditional ceremonies where technical perfection is required (such as Tattoos or Veterans’ memorials, or weddings). His Grade 1 rating indicates he has mastered the most difficult music in the bagpipe catalog.
- Grade 4 piper is widely known for their versatility and educational programs. With years of experience is excellent for schools, libraries, and social events where bagpipers ability to blend performance with history and storytelling is a major asset.
In short, Tyge represents the technical “athlete” at the top of the competitive ladder, while A Grade 4 is a seasoned “performer” with a focus on community engagement and tradition.