Bristol bagpiper for weddings, funerals and special events
Julian Smart brings more than 40 years of piping experience, including his time with the Scots Guards, high-profile ceremonial duties and 20 years as Pipe Major of the City of Bristol Pipes and Drums, with travel across Bristol, the surrounding area and parts of Wiltshire.
Bagpiper hire across Bristol and nearby areas
Julian is based in the Bristol area and regularly performs for weddings, funerals, memorials, birthdays, military occasions, civic ceremonies and private events. Enquiries are welcome from Bristol and nearby areas including South Gloucestershire, North Somerset, Somerset and parts of Wiltshire, depending on date, venue and travel.
- Wedding bagpiper for ceremony arrivals, processionals and receptions.
- Funeral bagpiper for respectful arrivals, departures and graveside moments.
- Event piper for parties, Burns Night, civic occasions and military ceremonies.
- Local service across Bristol, Bath, Keynsham, Portishead, Yate, Thornbury and nearby towns by arrangement.
Services
Professional performance, thoughtful tune choices and reliable support from first enquiry to the event itself.
Weddings
Piping for arrivals, guest welcome, ceremony moments and receptions, with help choosing tunes that suit the day.
Funerals & memorials
Sensitive, respectful piping for funerals, wakes and memorial services, including traditional laments and family requests.
Parties & ceremonies
A striking live performance for birthdays, civic events, military occasions and other gatherings that call for something memorable.
Experience and background
Julian has more than 40 years of experience as a piper, including his time with the Scots Guards, major ceremonial duties and 20 years as Pipe Major of the City of Bristol Pipes and Drums.
- More than 40 years of piping experience.
- Former Scots Guards piper.
- Has performed at major ceremonial duties, including Trooping the Colour.
- Wide repertoire, from traditional favourites to more reflective selections.
- 20 years as Pipe Major of the City of Bristol Pipes and Drums.
- Available across Bristol, the surrounding area and parts of Wiltshire.
Explore before you book
Audio samples
Hear a few of the tunes Julian can play and get a feel for the sound.
Gallery
See Julian performing at weddings, parties and ceremonial appearances.
Contact
Share your date, location and event details to check availability.
Bagpiper hire questions
Do you cover Bristol and nearby areas?
Yes. Julian is available for events in Bristol and nearby areas, including parts of Somerset, South Gloucestershire, North Somerset and Wiltshire. Send the venue or postcode when enquiring so travel can be confirmed.
Can you play at both weddings and funerals?
Yes. Julian plays celebratory music for weddings and parties, and sensitive traditional laments for funerals, memorials and remembrance events.
How do I check availability?
Use the contact form with your date, venue, type of event and any tune requests. Julian can then confirm availability and the most suitable piping options.