what people are saying
Craig offers 20 years of experience playing at weddings and other special events. Not only an excellent musician and consummate professional, Craig is known for his friendly and approachable style that puts people at ease during some of the most important moments in life. He comes highly recommended by several venues and suppliers and, most important of all, very happy customers.
“I have known Pipe Major Craig Irving for over 20 years. We have worked together on thousands of weddings during that time and many private functions and funerals. Craig is a world class piper. His dedication to his craft is second to none. Always immaculately dressed for every occasion. Completely professional. I would use and want no one else.”
— Pastor Sandy Jamieson
“I would 100% recommend Craig. He is a brilliant musician. He piped us in to the Skye Boat Song (I had to get Outlander in there somewhere!) which was beautiful. It really made the ceremony special. If you are thinking of hiring Craig, have no doubts - he will not disappoint!”
— Katie Marie Taylor
“Our team finds it a pleasure to work with Craig. He is always immaculately dressed and very professional. Couples find him very accommodating with their choice of music and always comment on his cheerfulness and friendliness, and how he helps to put them at ease. He fully deserves the success he has had!”
— Janice, The Mill Forge
“Craig is number one in my eyes. He is a fantastic piper. He has played all over the world and was invited to meet the Queen. Simply the best.”
— Anne Dixon
“Craig was so fantastic, he made our day so special and such a memorable experience. The smallpipes in Anvil Hall were beautiful as we signed the register and had photos.”
— Adie Sweeney
“Craig has piped many times at the castle and he never disappoints. He is always immaculately dressed and he always sounds great. He is one of the loveliest guys also!”
— Sarah, Auchen Castle
“Craig made our wedding. Not a dry eye in the house. What a beautiful person also.”
— Madison and Mikey Day
“Craig turned up in full Highland Dress as my wife had requested. He helped make our day extra special and helped us to relax and enjoy the ceremony. You could tell that he and our photographer, Colin Carpenter, had worked together many times as they made us laugh with their banter. I would fully recommend booking Craig to play for you if you want a professional piper who also will add a little fun into proceedings.”
— Keith Taylor
“Having known Craig both personally and professionally for over 20 years, his level of musicianship, professionalism and respect are of the highest standard. Having a piper at a funeral is a wonderful tribute to a loved one and the heartful and emotional sound of his bagpipes has a powerful and reflective resonance with so many.”
— Adam, Funeral Director
“Can't reccomend Craig highly enough. He piped at our wedding at Morton Castle. He was incredibly helpful, always professional and knew his stuff. He helped advise us regarding song choice and when to play. Craig turned up and performed incredibly, knowing exactly what to do and where to be. I could hear Craig in the distance as I approached the castle, and it really made me feel at one with my surroundings and the ceremony as a whole.”
— Leighn and Carolyn Chambers
“A huge thank you for piping at Rachael and David’s wedding on Christmas Eve. Everyone agreed it was a truly beautiful day and you really did add the magical touch. The bride and groom were delighted with the surprise and there were lots of lumps to the throat and tears in the eyes with happiness. They couldn't have wished for anything more perfect.”
— Helen Cadden
“Thank you so much for playing at our wedding at The Mill Forge and for arranging the drummer. You were both amazing and made our day extra special. Highly recommended.”
— Zoe Collar-Harrison
“The walk down the aisle was very moving. There was not a dry eye in Anvil Hall. The piping at the reception was fantastic.”
— Lyn McCaskill
“Craig is a marvellous piper and he really made our ceremony. Very talented and 100% professional. Would absolutely recommend.”
— Craig Martin
“Craig piped for us at our wedding at Friar’s Carse. He advised me before the big day on song choice and piped me and my bridal party down the aisle to Highland Cathedral, my granny’s favourite song. Craig is a very talented piper and we can’t thank him enough for the massive part he played in our day. I would not hesitate to recommend Craig to anyone.”
— Lyndsay Taylor
“For anyone considering a traditional Scottish piper to add something very special to their day then look no further. Craig Irving is extremely helpful and will go out of his way to accommodate special requests. With a variety of kilts and jackets, he is always immaculately turned out in whichever style of highland wear he chooses – perfect for your wedding photographs! The traditional bagpipes are a wonderful sound, but be sure to enquire about the smallpipes too. They provide a wonderful atmosphere during the signing of the register or whilst enjoying a drinks reception. Having had the pleasure of working with Craig for over eight years, I would have no hesitation in recommending him.”
— Victoria, Kinmount House
“Craig is a pleasure to work with – always reliable, professional and great at what he does. Not only has he piped for lots of our lovely couples on their wedding days, we have also had him on board at our in-house private events. Craig goes above and beyond to deliver an exceptional service and we are proud to have him on our Recommended Suppliers list here at Hetland Hall Hotel.”
— Natasha, Hetland Hall Hotel
“Can’t speak highly enough of Craig. We booked him for our wedding and couldn’t have asked for more! Was a huge hit with all of our guests. Contact from the beginning was great. Would definitely recommend Craig to all.”
— Mairi Clark-Thompson
“Working in the hospitality industry in the area of Gretna Green, I had heard of Craig’s reputation. So when planning New Year’s Eve celebrations for our customers his name was a given. I realised I made the right choice when I saw the hands clapping, feet banging and the big smiles on the faces of my diners. For the last couple of years, Pipe Major Irving has been part of the restaurant’s Hogmanay celebrations, wearing his full Highland uniform there is no doubt he’s the star of the event.”
— Yann, Restaurant Manager
“Craig played at my mum and dad’s 50th wedding anniversary when they renewed their vows…it was beautiful and Craig was amazing.”
— Deborah Evans
“As a venue we have had the pleasure of working alongside Craig at numerous weddings and functions, and we are delighted to have been able to build a rapport with such a talented musician. Craig Irving, Scottish Piper always delivers a beautiful performance with the highest degree of professionalism, immaculate attire and care and attention to every detail. If you are looking to add something special to your dream day...we highly recommend Craig Irving as your piper as he really can set the tone for your afternoon or evening.”
— Katherine, Skitby House
WHAT CRAIG IS SAYING
“Sometimes I really can’t believe this is my job! Every wedding is different and each and every wedding is equally as important to me. One day I am piping in a church, the next day could be a sandy beach (with a ceremony time dictated by the tide that day). I love that I contribute to making their day more memorable. I enjoy helping couples choose tunes or decide on a tartan to tie in with their wedding theme. Over the years, I have met people from all over the world, from all walks of life, all with their own story to tell. I really do feel privileged that I get the opportunity to be a part of so many people’s special day.”
— Craig Irving, Scottish Piper