Donald K. Ross
My Services
Here’s what you get when you hire me:
I understand everyone’s event is unique and special for them. I do my absolute best to personalize each performance to your event. I want to leave you with a special memory. I will work very hard with you to make sure I exceed all of your expectations. Most pipers will give you a good performance by looking the part and playing the pipes. I can’t tell you how many times people have told me, “We’ve had pipers before and there is such a notable difference between you and them.” I tell them you’ve just experienced a true professional. Here’s what makes the difference, it isn’t the fifty years I’ve been playing or performing for more than 6,000 events, it’s called your skill level. All pipers play at a certain level which should be an important factor when choosing your piper. This level can be determined by how their pipes sound and their piping proficiency. Due to my long experience in piping, in less than a minute of listening, I can tell you what grade level a piper is. Pipers are assigned grade levels based on their skill, the lowest being grade 5. Grade 5 is the level for beginners or people that just want to play. Most pipers fit into this category. The grade levels increase as your piping proficiency improves. So we have grades 5, 4, 3, 2 and 1. There is one more level, the highest of them all called the Professional level. Less then 5% of all bagpipers in the world reach this level of proficiency. I perform at the Professional level and this is want makes the difference with my piping performance.
I also play the Scottish small pipes. These pipes would be used in more intimate settings because of the softer sound and lower volume but they provide the same wonderful music. I have the ability to learn a special music section for your event or play non-traditional pieces for your event. I’m able to set my bagpipe pitch to perform with orchestras, pipe organ, piano, violin or other musical instruments that would accompany me. I play for Highland and Irish dancers and I can also arrange for a snare drummer to play with me. I can even organize for a mini pipe band, consisting of several pipers and drummers, or even a whole pipe band to play at your event. I truly want your event to be special, memorable, and unlike anything you have ever experienced before.
Pricing:
There are many factors that go into pricing, such as travel and the length of time I am needed, although prices normally start around $200. For an exact quote about pricing, my availability, and payment options, please feel free to call me or email me.
Weddings
The sounds of the great highland bagpipe will personalize your wedding, creating your own unique day. A must do is to be piped out for your recessional. There’s nothing quite like a piper marching up the aisle to the newly announced couple and leading them out.
Funerals
No other musical instrument touches your soul quite like the great highland bagpipe. The stirring sounds of the bagpipe makes for a dignified tribute, celebrating your loved one's life. This is the perfect way to be led back home.
Golf Outings
Bring the old world charm of Scotland and Ireland to your golf event. There’s nothing like the sound of the bagpipes being heard across the course to set the tone for a fine day on the links.
Special Events
You don't have to be of Scottish or Irish heritage to enjoy the powerful but beautiful sound of the great highland bagpipe. This ancient sound embraces you, stirring your emotions and awakening fond memories. The bagpipes can make your eyes tear, your feet tap, strengthen your pulse, and bring a smile to your face. This is the effect the bagpipe has on people and the effect that creates a special memory that lasts a lifetime.
Kind Words
“My Mom had very few requests in life, but one was to have the bagpipes played at her funeral. Donald Ross exceeded our hopes and expectations. He was so very helpful and offered several suggestions that helped to honor our beloved mothers life. If you are in need of this type of service, Mr Ross is your man. You can tell that for him this is not just a job.....but a very compassionate act of service.”
-Tonya B.
“Absolutely amazing! Perfect personalized to my event . Was willing to do what ever I asked .. my husband was stunned ... everyone loved him . Very personal and mingled well with all of my guests. Would hire him again in a heartbeat..!!!! Thank you again for making my wedding day a moment that took his breath away!!”
-Tiffany A.
“A lovely man. Beautiful personality and exceptional talent. He was so accommodating and went out of his way to make our daughter’s wedding a day to cherish forever. We feel so blessed to have met him and honored he was able to join us on this very special day. Thank you Donald. With all our hearts we thank you.”
-Dennis & Beth J.
Michigan Bagpiper, Donald K. Ross, special events, weddings, funerals, commencements, birthdays, and more. Piper Donald K. Ross also performs in the Ohio and Indiana region. Hire a bagpiper today!