WHALEY BAGPIPES
Celtic Musician and Bagpiper from Rochester, NY
Hello! My name is Will Whaley and I am a professional bagpiper available for special events, celebrations, weddings, and funerals. Known for their rich and timeless sound, my bagpipes bring a touch of Celtic heritage and powerful emotion to any event.The bagpipe evokes music that’s as moving as it is memorable. Whether you want something traditional or with a modern twist, I will make sure your event has that unmistakable element only the pipes can deliver.
About Me
I am a dedicated bagpiper with a deep passion for the tradition, discipline, and musicality of the Great Highland bagpipe. I continually strive to develop a strong technical foundation and a versatile repertoire that spans traditional Scottish and Irish pipe music, ceremonial pieces, and contemporary arrangements.My musical background is supported by years of formal study, including a Minor in Music Studies from the State University of New York at Fredonia. In addition to the Great Highland Bagpipe, I also perform on the Scottish smallpipes and play Irish and Scottish style fiddle. These instruments have broadened my musical perspective and allow me to explore the rich traditions of both Scottish and Irish traditional music. I currently perform with Feadan Or Pipe Band, participating in area festivals, parades, and regional pipe band competitions.Whether performing solo or alongside other musicians, I strive to deliver performances that honor the heritage of the instrument while creating memorable musical experiences for audiences.
Bagpiping is more than a skill to me—it is a lifelong pursuit that blends tradition, discipline, and musical storytelling.
Frequently Asked Questions
Professionalism
Professionalism is a core principal of Whaley Bagpipes. Your event is treated with the utmost respect and dignity. A free consultation is included with every event. Logistics are always discussed prior to performance. My early arrival is critical to tune the instrument, stage and plan out a best performance location. I always arrive in full highland regalia unless otherwise requested and discussed.
Rates
Rates can vary depending on event type, location and time. Please get in touch to get an accurate quote for your event.
Special rates and consideration are taken into account for First Responders/Teachers/Military/Veterans
KIA or Line of Duty - Please Call
Payment
Payment is due at time of service. Acceptable forms of payment include cash, check, PayPal or Venmo.
Tune Requests
Please review my repertoire list for available tunes. If you are unsure what tunes you would like for your event, I am happy to consult and make appropriate recommendations.All accommodations will be made to try to perform requested tunes. It should however be noted that the Highland Bagpipe is limited in its range and scale, and many contemporary or popular tunes are simply not compatible with the melodic compass of the instrument.Additional tunes may be learned with adequate advanced notice, but may require an additional fee.
Travel
Events outside of a 60 mile radius of Rochester, NY may incur additional travel expenses. Contact for more details.
Contact Today
To contact me, please fill in the relevant fields below.
Repetoire
Below are a few suggested tunes by occasion.
Funeral
Amazing Grace
Going Home (Dvorak 9)
Skye Boat Song (Outlander Theme)
The Rowan Tree
Lord Lovat's Lament
When The Battle's Over
Hector the Hero
The Eagles Whistle
Loch Lomond
Fair Maid of Barra (Gaelic Air)
She Moved Through the Fair
Wedding
Mairi's Wedding
Auld Lang Syne
Highland Cathedral
Lady Inverclyde
Celebration / Parade
Scotland the Brave
The Green Hills of Tyrol
We're No Awa to Bide Awa
Minstrel Boy
Cock O' the North
Bonnie Dundee
The Steamboat
Auld Lang Syne
The Bluebells of Scotland
At Long Last