Dr. Raphael Pazo - Highland Bagpiper
Overview
Looking for an exceptionally experienced performer with an impeccable, elegant presentation and distinct artistic musical expression?
I'm a professional musician, instructor, arranger, and composer over 43 years of experience performing at weddings, birthdays, anniversaries, memorials, sporting events, theatre and film productions. I hold a Bachelor's and a Master's Degrees in Music from the Royal Conservatory of Music in Madrid, Spain. I received by training as a Highland Piper from Dugald McNeill, Harry Sinclair McNulty, Bruce Hitchins, Aaron Shaw and Iain Whitelaw, and have participated numerous piping master classes in the United States, Canada, Scotland and England.
Reviews
114 reviews
Lorrie K.
February 2, 2026Truly a five-star experience from a gifted artist!
The bagpipes have a way of reaching people’s hearts in a way few other instruments can, especially when honoring both military service and Scottish roots.
I cannot thank Raphael enough for the incredible gift of his music. He played for my father's memorial service, and his performance was the highlight of the day. So many guests commented on how moving the music was—it provided the perfect, soulful tribute to a life well-lived.
Raphael provided an extraordinary tribute for my father’s Celebration of Life this past weekend. The sound of the pipes added a layer of dignity and beauty that words simply couldn't express. We requested 15 minutes of pipes prior to my father’s service outside to welcome family and friends – which enhanced a poignant and haunting reverence. Raphael played 'Amazing Grace' during the service and 'Going Home' as the recessional; both were performed with such soul and precision that it moved many of our guests to tears.
Raphael was the ultimate professional—punctual, respectful, and incredibly sensitive to our family’s needs during a difficult time. He was very responsive to my phone and email requests during the coordination of service.
The bagpipes have a way of reaching people’s hearts in a way few other instruments can, especially when honoring both military service and Scottish roots and Raphael honored both perfectly, making the day feel complete. If you are looking for a world-class musician who brings both talent and heart to an event, I cannot recommend Raphael highly enough – you will not be disappointed.
I only wish I could give at least ten stars. Truly a five-star experience from a gifted artist!
Hired as: Bagpiper
Dr. Raphael Pazo - Highland Bagpiper
Dear Lorrie and Family,
Thank you for inviting me to play the bagpipes at the celebration of life service for your father, COL Robert L. Strim. It was truly an honor to pay tribute to the life such a remarkable man, an American hero and Patriot. Thank you for this wonderful review and for sharing your experience hiring in this review.
Respectfully,
Raphael Pazo
Rie M.
August 19, 2023Dr Pazo (Raphael) is an absolute star!
He is reliable, professional, accommodating, and has a talent for music that I have rarely experienced.
I engaged him to play for my husband’s birthday party. I am SO glad I did!
He really made the event super-special. My husband and our guests were absolutely delighted with what we heard from him.
Would I hire him again? Absolutely - in a heartbeat!
Hired as: Bagpiper
Dr. Raphael Pazo - Highland Bagpiper
Dear Rie and Family,
Thank you for your kind words and awesome review. It was real pleasure meeting you and playing the Scottish bagpipes at your husband's birthday celebration.
Samantha M.
June 20, 2022Best Bagpiper We Ever Hired!
Hiring a bagpiper for every wedding is an important tradition for my family. Raphael went the extra mile to make this event special! He was professional, extremely knowledgeable, communicative, flexible, and friendly. He arrived on time, played all of our requests, and even composed a complimentary song for the bride and groom. Everyone involved agreed it was the best performance we’ve seen at a family wedding to date! We plan to hire Raphael for all future engagements in the area - could not recommend more!
Hired as: Bagpiper
Tom O.
June 7, 2026An absolute professional
Raphael was a consummate professional, from my first inquiry all the way to the last song he played for us. Raphael combined top-tier, masterful skills with flawless execution, ethical conduct, and an unwavering commitment to excellence.
Hired as: Bagpiper
Rev. S. R.
February 16, 2026Dr. Pazo is a wonderful performer and easy to work with!
Dr. Pazo has played the bagpipes for several funerals at our church. He is a very gifted bagpiper and is always sensitive to the needs of the bereaved. His warmth and professionalism make him a delight to work with.
Hired as: Bagpiper
Booking information
Price range: Contact for rates
Languages: English, Portuguese, Spanish
Gig length: 10 - 240 minutes
Insurance: $1,000,000 - Coverage offered upon request
Unions: AFM
What to expect
Performances range from wedding ceremonies and receptions, military funerals, celebrations of life, Law enforcement and Firemen Memorials, birthday parties, Robert Burns Suppers,
graduations,golf tournaments, regional, national and internal competitions, and any other event that can be enhanced by the Majestic Sound of the Great Highland Scotttish Bagpipes.
About
Raphael's Musical Journey: An Tale of Perseverance, Dedication and Excellence
From Humble Beginnings to International Recognition
Raphael began his formal music education at an early age, immersing himself in the study of the violin, viola, and various baroque and Renaissance instruments. His passion for music was evident from the start, and it wasn't long before his exceptional talent became apparent. This prodigious beginning laid the groundwork for what would become a stellar career in the world of music.
After service in the military, and leading a successful business career, Raphael returned his music studies and graduated of the prestigious Royal Conservatory of Music in Madrid, Spain. Raphael's academic achievements are nothing short of remarkable. His education did not stop there; he further honed his skills at the world-renowned College of Piping in Glasgow, Scotland. This unique combination of expertise in both classical and traditional music forms set Raphael apart from his peers.
His performances are not confined to one location; Raphael regularly graces venues in California and across the globe with his musical skills and emotive performances. His versatility is showcased through his mastery of both light music and the classical compositions of the Scottish Highland Bagpipe (Piobaireachd), as well as the rich musical traditions of Wales, Ireland, and Spain. His ability to command a wide array of instruments, including the violin, viola, violoncello, classical guitar, ukulele, mandolin, and recorders (from sopranino to bass), as well as more unconventional ones like the shofar, didgeridoo, and bugle, adds layers of depth to his performances.
In addition to his instrumental expertise, Raphael is a skilled vocalist, specializing in bass and baritone ranges. His background in classical music and 'a Capella' singing, including Barbershop Quartet harmony, showcases his adaptability and range as a musician. The rich tone he produces has earned him numerous accolades at regional, national, and international levels, solidifying his reputation as an outstanding performer.
Raphael's deep understanding of traditional music spans various cultures, and he possesses a vast repertoire of compositions from Scotland, Ireland, Wales, Spain, and other regions. His ability to mentally recall full compositions and adapt them for the bagpipes and other instruments is a testament to his dedication and skill.
Known for the clarity and power of his music, Raphael's performances are characterized by impeccable dress and presentation, always tailored to the event. His extensive experience in performing at weddings, anniversaries, memorials, celebrations of life, Ceilidhs, dances, military events, and Scottish gatherings has made him a preferred performer among event coordinators and planning professionals.
Raphael's bagpiping education is thorough and distinguished, including years of private lessons with professional-grade instructors and attending summer sessions at the College of Piping in Glasgow, Scotland. His commitment to his craft is unwavering, and his achievements continue to inspire and captivate audiences worldwide.
In essence, Raphael's musical journey is an exemplary tale of dedication and excellence. From his early beginnings to his international recognition, Raphael's contributions to the world of music are invaluable, and his legacy is one that will undoubtedly endure for generations to come.
Additional booking notes
Also available as a violinist, and vocalist, performing as a Baritone in several languages. Often sought and commisioned as a composer for special events.
Services offered
Set list
All regular sets of light music including Jigs, Reels Marches and Strathspeys; Piobaireachd Ithe Classical Music of the Great Highland Scottish Bagppes) and any commisioned compositions for solo performers or a mixed ensembled up to a Marching Band and Symphonic or Philharmonic Orchestra.
Setup requirements
I will perform in any suitable venue.
All performances are paid in advance