Call of the Loon Bagpiping
- St Paul, MN
- Bagpiper
- 24 Verified Bookings
Ann B. said “Merdith was the ultimate professional we highly recommend her. She made my Dad’s burial so special that even our one year old grandson sat in the grass…”
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I have 30+ years of experience as a Highland piper and singer of Gaelic songs in Minnesota, California and Scotland, having played in 6 different pipe bands and been taught by famous pipers. I can present on Gaelic culture, history, music and attire and teach toasts in Gaelic, tell jokes and traditional stories. Please call me to create the special program to meet your needs. Ceud Mile Failte,
Scott Bartell (Your Personal Piper)
On time…..engaging personality……loved the bagpipes
Response from Scott Bartell (Your Personal Piper):
Thank you for the kind review, Kelly! I had a nice chat with Andrew afterwards and even met a woman from Glasgow while standing in front of the bar and grill. I couldn't play "Parting Glass" for that friend of yours as it has some notes I don't think fit well with the bagpipe scale--great song, though!
Scott likes to engage with his audience telling stories and Scottish folklore, and taking questions, playing bagpipes in between, which worked at this event since it was a hot summer day. Everything went well. Thank you, Scott!
Response from Scott Bartell (Your Personal Piper):
Thank you, Peggy, for your kind review and your aplomb as a good hostess --Bon Vovage to Ellenure for Edinburgh. You are a very gracious family! Scott Bartell
Scott did an amazing job! The Board members were very impressed!
Response from Scott Bartell (Your Personal Piper):
Thank you Devin--I enjoyed doing it!
Scott did a fantastic job performing for my mothers birthday party . He arrived in his kilt and told us stories and history of the bag pipe and Irish’/Scottish music . He play 4 or 5 songs including happy birthday . My mom was so happy with her birthday surprise.
Response from Scott Bartell (Your Personal Piper):
Thanks for the kind review, Sarah! I really enjoyed playing for your 88-y.o. mother who though deaf could certainly hear the pipes, even danced to them and laughed at my jokes when you conveyed them --what a lively person. It was such a bonus to have you as a musician understanding my need for a discreet tuning space and giving me accurate, understandable driving directions to a place I'd never been in the wilds of Wisconsin--it all made up for some crummy past gigs! You are a kind and generous colleague with a lovely home and family!
Living in Scotland for 5 months and getting to know the sound of frequent bagpipes, Scott did not disappoint. Finding the church on time and only playing two short sets are my only gripes. All in all, my daughter loved this surprise.
Response from Scott Bartell (Your Personal Piper):
Matt, thanks for the review---I started out quite early to get to the church but my memory played false on which direction New Trieste was from Mieseville--good idea having a contact I could reach! I did arrive at the point where playing was wanted and we had agreed just one or two tunes for recessional; the exact when and where kept changing. Same at the winery;I got three different instructions on when and where the bridal party would arrive--when they did, I was backed into a table by the priest who wanted to know EVERYTHING about pipes though not a musician and the bus was in a side lot not the front--no time to tune up; I did play "Amazing Grace" per your request (asked the Bride's permission!) and then several tunes but instead of going across to the pub they took off over the bridge. Seemed like the job got done to her satisfaction ? I couldn't join their jogging party, I don't parade anymore at 74. But it was a great day and I did my best...
Scott is truly a master at the trade, convivial and full of ideas. My daughter’s wedding was move up a notch with his masterful performance
Response from Scott Bartell (Your Personal Piper):
Thanks, Ron--it was a great pleasure to work with you! (I did NOT type "Ron", I typed "Ren"!)
He was good - did not play long enough - we had asked for a little more. The biggest issue was that he was late. I feel he should make sure he knows where he is going prior to the day of the event. All went smoothly in the end.
Response from Scott Bartell (Your Personal Piper):
Hello Trish---I completely agree with you but must note when a gig is far out in uncharted territory (not in the town as posted by GigSalad) it often is difficult to navigate---neither state highway maps nor Google Map nor my GPS did much to help until my phone call to the manager talked me in; the added music was to have welcomed your guests from their bus ride and was an add-on I offered but no cost added to the original price which did not include that--I felt bad too but nothing I could do about it and no cost to you. Sorry, Scott
We booked Scott for my Mom's Memorial Ceremony. He played the songs we decided on and everyone said it was perfect. I highly reccomend Scott for any event.
Scott's excellent bagpiping skills helped make my father's funeral very special. Our heritage is partially Scottish and Irish, so my father had several times mentioned how much he loved bagpipers. So we had to have Scott! I would highly recommend Scott Bartell's services for funerals, weddings, any special occasion. Thank you so very much, Scott!
Response from Scott Bartell (Your Personal Piper):
Thank you, Rosemarie--it was an honor to do it. Be well, Scott Bartell
Scott's performance enhanced the environment surrounding my father's burial service.
Response from Scott Bartell (Your Personal Piper):
Thanks , Stephen--it was a fine ceremony and we were lucky with weather. Scott.
Scott did a great job at my husband’s birthday party. He was very accommodating and great with the guests. Would definitely recommend!
Response from Scott Bartell (Your Personal Piper):
Thanks, Jessica--it was fun and I felt like an honored guest! You have my phone number if Rob has any questions about his new set of pipes. It occurs to me that I could get them properly set up for him (depends on how properly made the reeds are) and perhaps get him started on practise chanter.
He braved the coldest day on record to play at my son’s wedding, standing outside for 30 minutes.
Response from Scott Bartell (Your Personal Piper):
Thanks Marcy--I hope it was a gret event for your family--I'll never forget it. You were great to work with!
Scott played outside on the coldest October day in history. We were thrilled he braved the cold for my son’s wedding.
Response from Scott Bartell (Your Personal Piper):
Thank you Marcy--I did what I could. There was a homeless guy on the porch in a sleeping bag- I apologized for the noise and he said "Oh--I LOVE the bagpipes!"
Well Scott was very gracious Man he played so Beautiful and He touched all our hearts. My Mother was so touched as he played for her it brought tears of happiness and sadness as she is fighting Lukemia Thank You so much for the gift you gave us all
Scott played for my Dads Memorial Service. He was very kind and gracious. The performance was perfect and everyone in attendance loved it. I’m sure my Dad was smiling from above.
Scott did great, superb playing and a welcome addition to the evening
Response from Scott Bartell (Your Personal Piper):
Kurt--thank you for the nice review and the wonderful food and drink and Phil's amazing recital of the Burns' "Address to the Haggis"! Love to do it again now that I know where you live!--Scott Bartell
Good experience and my husband was properly surprised
Response from Scott Bartell (Your Personal Piper):
Thanks Doris, glad it worked out.
Scott led and supported our short sidewalk parade with expertise and offered a nice introduction indoors as well for our evening of Celtic/Irish music. Thanks to Scott and GigSalad for sharing your skills and service!
Response from Scott Bartell (Your Personal Piper):
Thanks, Lori, for your flexibility and creativity with this event--I really enjoyed playing for you and hope we can do it again!
A brief explanation for me of what a big pipe means, is it brings out all the meaning of life peace, Joy and contentment... The definition of a bagpipe is the secret to life is enjoying the passage of time.
Our family just celebrated our dad's to some grandpa,s Great Grandpa's 90th birthday party and he is all Irish. Whether you are Irish, Scottish, Jewish, Dutch ,Chinese or Japanese you name it whatever ethnic background you are from the bagpipe draws everyone's attention.
The immense Joy, smiles, and laughter to all that we're at our special birthday party... Scott Bartell created with his talents not only in his wonderful bagpipe Tunes but also his personality and jokes made for a wonderful memory.
And when you immediately hire this wonderful Talent please let me know I'd love to attend.
And enclosing utilizing Gig through this whole process created an easy flow of communication and wonderful immediate response from Scott Bartell throughout all of the requests that we had.
110% satisfied. It would have been 120% but the other 10% we didn't want Scott to leave. A great performance.
Response from Scott Bartell (Your Personal Piper):
Gary--thanks so much for the kind words--I really enjoyed the warmth and wit of you and your Grandpa Dan (at 90!) and all your family! It is reassuring to know that some people appreciate the bagpipe AND a warm human connection, instead of wanting a robot in a monkey suit as some think a piper shoud be (too many You Tube videos of military occasions or acrobats who can barely play?) Thanks again and Happy New Year to you all--Slainte!
Scott Bartell exceeded our expectations!! First, we chose Scott for his promptness in returning my e mail. Secondly we hired him to play Bagpipe @ a grave site funeral. On the phone ,Scott was very helpful during the consultation phase of the agreement. He suggested songs to play & the order in which they should be played. He showed up early to survey the grounds, made some suggestions based on experience & then played on Que. Wonderfully done! Scott your salute to our family after you finished the last song was a classy move. You are a Professional!
Response from Scott Bartell (Your Personal Piper):
David--thank you so much for your kind words! It was a fine event and I was honored to be part of it. Best, Scott Bartell (Your Personal Piper)
We hired Scott as a surprise for our daughter and son in law for there housewarming party. Scott arrived on time 8 pm. My son guided him into back yard as he played. The expressions and response from guests and the hosts was of surprise and pleasure. It was beautiful hearing the music coming from the distance exactly what we wanted. Its was amazing how quickly the guest went quiet. Scott did an awesome job, was funny with answering questions. Did a toast/ blessing in Irish. I can't thank Scott enough for help making this event a beautiful memory for the guests but most important the young couple stating out in there new home. Thanks again, Merri and Jack
Response from Scott Bartell (Your Personal Piper):
Merri and Jack---thank you so much for the kind review! The event was a lot of fun--I really appreciate it when people enjoy my playing and it was an honor to be part of a house-blessing event with your family. Also thank you for the generous tip at the end. Scott Bartell
Scott did a great job and everyone enjoyed the personal treatment he gave to my father. Scott was on time and ready to go when he arrived at the party. Definitely a 5 star performance.
Response from Scott Bartell (Your Personal Piper):
Thanks Curt--it was great fun and I hope to do it again for your Dad's 92nd birthday--Slainte' (Health)!--Scott Bartell
He was late, demanded a glass of wine when he walked in, played the pipes poorly, but was cheerful. Can't recommend him.
Response from Scott Bartell (Your Personal Piper):
Hello Margaret,
I'm sorry you were disappointed. Originally you said 8 p.m; I tried to get there earlier but as I explained the directions were difficult. I did NOT demand anything; I asked your server if she could put a glass out there for me as is traditional in giving a toast. I played PERFECTLY and you gave me an extra tip! I wonder if Ed wrote this instead of you?---Scott
Scott played as a surprise to my husband at our wedding. Scott was amazing at keeping in touch, helping finalize plans and give the best surprise! We had challenges related strictly to the venue, however, Scott went above and beyond to contact the venue, myself and my attendant to be sure everything could go as smoothly as possible. Thank you, Scott!
Response from Scott Bartell (Your Personal Piper):
Ah, Jessica--it was a great pleasure! Everyone worked hard to make it a success, and such a beautiful sunset. Thanks for letting me be a part of it---Slainte, Scott Bartell
Scott arrived on time and played for our wedding. We were very happy with Scott and thought he did a fantastic job!
Response from Scott Bartell (Your Personal Piper):
Thanks Michael----wishing the two of you a long and happy life together!
Scott showed up at the perfect timing and preformed excellently for our wedding.
Response from Scott Bartell (Your Personal Piper):
Thanks Mary!
Scott was very patient with our changing schedule. Reliable and friendly. Beautiful music.
Response from Scott Bartell (Your Personal Piper):
Thanks Linda! It was great fun; I had some excellent conversations with interested kids and adults---one kid costumed as a parrot was able to make parrot sounds!
Wonderful music
Response from Scott Bartell (Your Personal Piper):
Thanks, Michael and Mary---glad i could help and thanks for your responsiveness---Scott Bartell
Although the gig was very short, Scott met my important criteria of preserving the surprise, being precisely on time, providing a proper image, playing the correct tune, and providing a brief toast. As a bonus, he added his own flair by exiting with another well-played tune.
Response from Scott Bartell (Your Personal Piper):
Thank you Glenn---Slainte Mhaith!
Scott played at my mothers memorial, it was beautiful! Very responsive in the planning process and prompt the day of our event. Tusen takk, Scott!
Response from Scott Bartell (Your Personal Piper):
Selv takk, Lisa--Ingen Arsak!
Scott was the perfect addition to our wedding! He was easy to work with, and provided outstanding customer service. We received many compliments on his piping, as well as the Gaelic toast he led to kick off the reception. We highly recommend his services!!
Price Range: $170 for up to 15 minutes up to $600
March 15, 2024 • 1:00pm - 2:30pm | Nonprofit Event |
January 27, 2024 • 2:00pm - 2:15pm | Birthday Party |
July 23, 2023 • 5:00pm - 6:00pm | House Party |
May 17, 2023 • 6:30pm - 8:00pm | Nonprofit Event |
December 10, 2022 • 5:30pm - 6:00pm | Birthday Party |
October 21, 2022 • 3:00pm - 6:00pm | Wedding Ceremony |
September 03, 2022 • 6:00pm - 6:30pm | Funeral/Memorial Service |
August 13, 2022 • 4:00pm - 4:15pm | Wedding Ceremony |
June 18, 2022 • 12:30pm - 1:30pm | Wedding Ceremony |
May 21, 2022 • 12:00pm - 1:30pm | Funeral/Memorial Service |
October 23, 2021 • 4:00pm - 6:00pm | Wedding Ceremony |
July 30, 2021 • 11:00am - 12:00pm | Funeral/Memorial Service |
June 18, 2021 • 7:00pm - 7:15pm | Dinner Party |
June 16, 2021 • 12:00pm - 1:00pm | Funeral/Memorial Service |
June 11, 2021 • 1:00pm - 1:30pm | Funeral/Memorial Service |
May 01, 2021 • 7:30pm - 8:00pm | Birthday Party |
October 24, 2020 • 2:30pm - 3:00pm | Wedding Ceremony |
October 24, 2020 • 2:30pm - 3:00pm | Wedding Ceremony |
October 16, 2020 • 6:30pm - 6:45pm | Wedding Ceremony |
July 13, 2020 • 6:00pm - 6:15pm | Surprise |
March 07, 2020 • 11:00am - 12:00pm | Funeral/Memorial Service |
January 25, 2020 • 6:00pm - 8:00pm | House Party |
September 30, 2019 • 12:30pm - 1:00pm | Funeral/Memorial Service |
May 11, 2019 • 2:00pm - 4:00pm | Birthday Party |
March 16, 2019 • 5:30pm - 6:00pm | Nonprofit Event |
December 27, 2018 • 3:00pm - 3:15pm | Birthday Party |
September 11, 2018 • 11:00am - 11:15am | Funeral/Memorial Service |
September 01, 2018 • 10:00pm - 10:15pm | House Party |
July 27, 2018 • 7:00pm - 7:15pm | Birthday Party |
March 17, 2018 • 6:00pm - 7:00pm | Holiday Party |
January 27, 2018 • 8:00pm - 9:00pm | House Party |
November 11, 2017 • 4:00pm - 4:15pm | Wedding Ceremony |
September 02, 2017 • 3:00pm - 4:30pm | Wedding Reception |
June 22, 2017 • 12:00pm - 12:15pm | Funeral/Memorial Service |
May 20, 2017 • 3:00pm - 3:30pm | Wedding Ceremony |
March 24, 2017 • 6:00pm - 6:30pm | Cultural Event |
March 17, 2017 • 7:00pm - 7:30pm | Cocktail Party |
January 14, 2017 • 2:00pm - 2:30pm | Funeral/Memorial Service |
September 01, 2016 • 6:30pm - 6:45pm | Surprise |
July 31, 2016 • 12:30pm - 8:30pm | Reunion |
July 24, 2016 • 10:00am - 10:15am | Funeral/Memorial Service |
October 10, 2015 | Wedding Ceremony |
August 08, 2015 | Wedding Ceremony |
Ann B. said “Merdith was the ultimate professional we highly recommend her. She made my Dad’s burial so special that even our one year old grandson sat in the grass…”
William N. said “Joe did a great job and recommend!”
Cate M. said “I can't thank Jon enough for everything he did to bring professionalism and kindness to an otherwise stressful day. Years ago I promised my dad I'd…”
Aaron S. said “Jenny was on time and her music was quite good, she plays an electronic bagpipes which was nice indoors in our house but the volume is adjustable. Thanks!”