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Overview
Mr. Robert Mitchell is considered one of the BEST bagpipers in the United States. He plays the Highland bagpipes, which are perfect for outdoor ceremonies and the Scottish smallpipes and Border pipes, which are perfect for indoor playing. These instruments, with gentler tones are perfect for background music, accompaniment with other instruments, and during meditation before a ceremony. With over 20 years experience, this talented musician can only add to your celebration of your heritage.
Robert presents an exciting, entertaining, educational program suitable for audiences of all ages.
My REVIEWS are located on a different online booking service. Please contact me for REVIEWS.
28 Reviews
My fathers 90th birthday party was a huge success and a big part of it was the surprise bagpiper! He on time, professional and so engaging with everyone at the party!
Bagpiper
Robert did a phenomenal job playing at my client's wedding ceremony. He played as guests arrived to the church, after the ceremony, and then lead the guest to a local bar as they waited for the reception to begin. This was the perfect addition to their St. Patrick's Day Weekend Wedding!
Bagpiper
Response from TheReelpiper:
Thank you, Danielle. Your organization of the Event and communication with me both before the Wedding and on the day of the wedding were very much appreciated. You are the one who makes the difference for your clients. I hope you will keep me in mind for more events. Robert Mitchell
Robert has played the bagpipes for several of my client's wedding over the years. He is so lovely to work with and extremely talented. He is my go to for bagpipes in Washington, DC.
Bagpiper
TheReelpiper was amazing and I would definitely recommend him to anyone that wants a show stopper. I was worried because of the rain and thought to myself how is he going to play in the rain. Not only did he play, but he saved the day and treated the rain as if we were in Scotland. He was so professional and we allowed him to pick what he thought was appropriate for the occasion. The power that his very presence personifies is like watching the movie Brave heart. People hadn’t been that attentive since Prince played Purple Rain in the rain.
Thanks again, for making @Poolesville Day a success.
Bagpiper
Photos from this event
Bob was on time and did a wonderful of amazing grace and flowers in the forest. Put a great touch to the ceremony.
Funeral Music, Bagpiper
The children danced and enjoyed the ReelRiper. They enjoyed seeing a new experience/
Educational Entertainment
booked the reelpiper the night before our senior rugby night game....on time and delivered great music for the event. reasonably priced as well.
Bagpiper
I booked Robert to perform Amazing Grace at the memorial service of my aunt. He was communicative and professional. His performance was moving and enjoyed by all. I highly recommend!
Funeral Music, Bagpiper
Robert was amazing and made the whole process of planning the music such a joy.
Bagpiper
Incredible service, incredible playing, incredibly kind
Bagpiper
What a performer and so cordial and fun to work with. I would love to hire Bob again some day.
Bagpiper
He made the Celebration of Life Gathering for my husband just a little more special - Thank so much!!!
Bagpiper
Response from TheReelpiper:
Mary, this was a very Authentic, Celebration of Life. Everyone could not have been nice. I felt right at home.
R. Mitchell
He was great. Very professional and awesome!
Bagpiper
It was an authentic and awesome performance that made our wedding very special. So grateful that I found him.
Bagpiper
We were extremely impressed by Bob's performance and professionalism. Everyone commented on such a beautiful send off. Thank you!
Funeral Music
Dear GigSalad,
Thank you so much for the beautiful music that Bob TheReeelpiper played at my husband's memorial yesterday. The family was well pleased and I was touched deeply by his music. Thank you. Carolyn Buck
Funeral Music, Bagpiper
Response from TheReelpiper:
Dear Carolyn,
I felt that Tom was looking down and loving the beautiful send -off. I could feel the comfort and support of family and friends upon the hillside. I was honored to play a few tunes. R. Mitchell
We had a wonderful experience with Bob. He was quick to respond, reasonably priced, and very professional. He arrived early on the day of and was flexible when we needed to adjust due to weather. The performance was perfect, and exactly what the father of the groom wanted! Would highly recommend him to anyone looking for bagpipes for an event!
Bagpiper
Mr. Mitchell was fantastic. He piped my fathers funeral and in addition to his beautiful music he performed with zero direction. We spoke briefly the day before the service and from there he handled everything. He coordinated with the clergy and just seemed to know exactly what we wanted and needed. It was so wonderful to be able to focus on the burial. I can't recommend him enough.
Funeral Music
Bob was great and made the funeral service so special. Thanks Bob!!!
Funeral Music
Response from TheReelpiper:
Tiffany,
What a beautiful service at the Gravesite.
I played as the funeral procession was gathering.
Then played " Slaine" as the pall bearers carried the casket to the gravesite.
After the benediction, I played "Amazing Grace'.
The final tribute "Oh, Danny Boy" went very well on the bagpipes.
R. Mitchell
Bob was awesome! We enjoyed having him at our intimate event!
Bagpiper
He made my sister’s birthday so special. Great performance! I would absolutely recommend hiring him.
Bagpiper
Response from TheReelpiper:
I don't usually book 15 min. gigs, but Andrea took care of everything. This was such a wonderful experience, l would happily play more Birthday Surprises near me. R. Mitchell
The week of May 9th-May 17th, I was in Washington D.C. for Police Week. Though all events were canceled, due to COVID 19, I still may the trip from El Mirage, Arizona, to document what I could. Being a photojournalist, accurately recording these events, in these modern times, is essential. Each day I broadcasted live from the National Law Enforcement Memorial to honor those to pay the ultimate price and for those who could not attend, a chance to show their support. Friday, May 15th, I got the idea to have a piper play during my final broadcast the following morning. Robert not only accepted the job but was on point in regards to his talent, skill level and performance. His professionalism was outstanding and worthy of praise. If ever I need a piper again, while in D.C., I will use him again without hesitation.
Bagpiper
He was fabulous! Very professional . He played exactly what we wanted and when we wanted it. The reel piper sounded wonderful and I would definitely recommend him!
Bagpiper
Response from TheReelpiper:
It doesn't matter if you are a Princess, the Queen, or a Bride. You always receive the very BEST.
R. Mitchell
This was the first funeral I have had to coordinate and I was unsure of many details, but the Reelpiper helped me with figuring out when to start playing and intervals for stopping and where he should be situated etc. He played the pipes beautifully and was very professional. Thanks again!
Bagpiper
This Gentlemen was right where he was supposed to be and played beautifully for my Mother's burial. He is very talented.
Bagpiper
Response from TheReelpiper:
This was a beautiful day and a lovely send -off for the matriarch of the family. I greeted the family at the top of the hill near the grave site playing "The Sleeping Tune". Then as the pall bearers and priest escorted the coffin to the grave site I played "Slaine". Following the final prayer I played 3 verses of "Amazing Grace". As the family walked back to their vehicles I played "Going Home" and "When the Battle's O're". Bagpiper Robert Mitchell
Bob was wonderful. The music was beautiful! He intuitively seemed to know exactly what we needed him to do and where to go. He did a beautiful job.
Celtic Music, Bagpiper
Response from TheReelpiper:
Emily and Kellen,
Your wedding was awesome. It was my pleasure. Bobby
Bob was extremely accommodating to our schedule, which changed a few times over the corse of the week. He made himself available when we neede him, was extremely professional, and his music was incredible. I'd highly recommend him to all!
Bagpiper
Response from TheReelpiper:
Congratulations Sarah and Andrew !
Your wedding in the Chapel and the gathering at the plantation was the very best wedding that I have had the pleasure to attend in over 30 years of playing bagpipes at weddings.. It was absolutely perfect. Everybody was so friendly and genuine. Congratulations to you both.
Bob Mitchell
Booking Info
Price Range: $300, plus travel
Gig Length: 60 - 120 minutes
Languages: English
Insurance: Yes
Unions: EUSPBA
Website: Visit website
Phone Number: Call
What to Expect
People will often call the performance on the bagpipes as memorable for the sound and feeling. What better way to remember that special day or to remember a loved one.
Typically, I provide music as guests are gathering and moving from one place to another. Ceremonies are more memorable when bagpipe music is played.
About
" I recommend that musicians take the time to seek the highest quality instruction for their instruments, listen to a variety of music and styles, and practice everyday."
Mr. Mitchell started bagpiping at 9 yrs. of age. He continues to study the music and styles of the ancient bagpipers and contemporary musicians. He served for 20 years as Pipe Major of a Grade 4 Pipe Band in Columbia, MD. In 2004 he was awarded the Master/Apprenticeship Award by the Maryland Traditional Arts organization.
Additional Booking Notes
When bagpipes are used to provide "a surprise", it is important to discuss details about the preparation and tuning of the instrument ahead of time.
Services Offered
Past Booked Events
| September 23, 2023 • 9:00am - 11:00am | Festival |
| August 26, 2023 • 11:00am - 12:00pm | Funeral/Memorial Service |
| August 07, 2023 • 1:30pm - 2:30pm | Funeral/Memorial Service |
| July 28, 2023 • 8:00am - 9:30am | Funeral/Memorial Service |
| July 17, 2023–July 18, 2023 • 10:00am - 11:00am | School Assembly |
| June 24, 2023 • 7:00pm - 8:00pm | Retirement Party |
| June 08, 2023 • 10:00am - 11:00am | School Assembly |
| May 21, 2023 • 12:30pm - 2:00pm | Funeral/Memorial Service |
| May 20, 2023 • 1:30pm - 2:00pm | Birthday Party |
| May 01, 2023 • 4:30pm - 5:00pm | Campus Event |
| April 15, 2023 • 12:00pm - 1:00pm | Nonprofit Event |
| March 18, 2023 • 1:30pm - 3:30pm | Wedding Ceremony |
| March 17, 2023 • 7:00pm - 8:30pm | Fundraiser |
| March 17, 2023 • 2:00pm - 3:00pm | Nonprofit Event |
| January 21, 2023 • 11:00am - 12:30pm | Funeral/Memorial Service |
| November 19, 2022 • 10:00am - 12:00pm | Funeral/Memorial Service |
| November 10, 2022 • 12:00pm - 1:00pm | Funeral/Memorial Service |
| October 01, 2022 • 4:00pm - 4:30pm | Wedding Ceremony |
| September 03, 2022 • 2:00pm - 3:00pm | Wedding Ceremony |
| July 07, 2022 • 11:00am - 12:00pm | Funeral/Memorial Service |
| June 04, 2022 • 11:00am - 11:15am | Wedding Ceremony |
| June 02, 2022 • 9:00am - 10:30am | Personal Occasion |
| November 20, 2021 • 12:00pm - 1:00pm | Funeral/Memorial Service |
| November 06, 2021 • 4:30pm - 5:00pm | Wedding Ceremony |
| October 15, 2021 • 3:30pm - 3:45pm | Wedding Ceremony |
| September 11, 2021 • 1:00pm - 1:30pm | Funeral/Memorial Service |
| July 24, 2021 • 1:30pm - 2:00pm | Wedding Ceremony |
| July 17, 2021 • 12:00pm - 12:15pm | Wedding Ceremony |
| June 23, 2021 • 12:30pm - 12:45pm | Funeral/Memorial Service |
| June 18, 2021 • 6:30pm - 6:45pm | Wedding Reception |
| May 24, 2021 • 11:00am - 1:30pm | Funeral/Memorial Service |
| March 20, 2021 • 6:00pm - 6:30pm | House Party |
| January 08, 2021 • 5:00pm - 5:30pm | Birthday Party |
| November 21, 2020 • 8:00pm - 8:45pm | Retirement Party |
| November 07, 2020 • 1:00pm - 2:00pm | Funeral/Memorial Service |
| October 13, 2020 • 11:00am - 11:30am | Funeral/Memorial Service |
| October 08, 2020 • 6:00pm - 8:30pm | Dinner Party |
| September 30, 2020 • 11:00am - 11:45am | Funeral/Memorial Service |
| September 27, 2020 • 12:00pm - 12:30pm | Funeral/Memorial Service |
| August 09, 2020 • 4:00pm - 4:30pm | Birthday Party |
| August 09, 2020 • 1:00pm - 1:15pm | Birthday Party |
| June 18, 2020 • 7:30pm - 8:00pm | House Party |
| May 16, 2020 • 8:00am - 8:30am | Funeral/Memorial Service |
| June 01, 2019 • 2:30pm - 4:30pm | Wedding Ceremony |
| May 18, 2019 • 6:30pm - 7:30pm | Teen Birthday Party |
| April 21, 2018 • 2:30pm - 3:30pm | Funeral/Memorial Service |
| April 04, 2018 • 10:30am - 12:30pm | Funeral/Memorial Service |
| February 06, 2018 • 2:00pm - 2:15pm | Birthday Party |
| October 29, 2017 • 10:30am - 12:00pm | Worship Service |
| October 28, 2017 • 1:00pm - 2:30pm | Funeral/Memorial Service |
| August 19, 2017 • 5:30pm - 6:15pm | Wedding Ceremony |
| June 10, 2017 • 7:00pm - 7:15pm | Funeral/Memorial Service |
| May 27, 2017 • 3:30pm - 5:30pm | Wedding Reception |
| March 16, 2017 • 12:30pm - 1:30pm | Holiday Party (Other) |
| June 25, 2016 | Wedding Ceremony |
| June 18, 2016 | Wedding Ceremony |
| March 17, 2016 • 1:00pm - 1:30pm | Funeral/Memorial Service |
| March 17, 2016 • 12:00pm - 2:00pm | Corporate Event |
| November 01, 2015 | Wedding Ceremony |
| March 17, 2015 | Holiday Party |
| December 17, 2014 | Corporate Event |
| October 07, 2014 | Fundraiser |
| September 17, 2014 | Funeral Service |
| August 22, 2014 | Corporate Event |
| June 18, 2014 | Funeral Service |
| May 21, 2014 | Funeral Service |
Set List
The variety of music that I play on the bagpipes is endless. I am listing 2 samples for each category that I usually play.
Patriotic: America the Beautiful, Marine Corps Hymn
Appalachian: Shenandoah, Amazing Grace
Memorials: Flowers of the Forest, Going Home
Scottish: Scotland the Brave, Flower of Scotland
Irish: Wearing of the Green, Minstrel Boy
Dances: Strathspeys, Reels
Jigs: Jig of Slurs, Geese in the Bog
Marches: Horsborough Castle, Campbells Farewell to Red Castle
Weddings: Highland Cathedral, Mhari's Wedding
Hymns: Be Thou My Vision, Abide with Me
Airs: Lightly Swims the Swan, Mrs. Hamilton's
Influences & Inspiration
A Celtic Trio: Sleat is also available. Consisting of smallpipes, cello, and a variety of keyboard instruments, (harp, piano, accordion, and hammer dulcimer).
Setup Requirements
Changing room/ tuning room.
Testimonials
Mr. Bob Mitchell was a delight from the moment he arrived. Both he and his fiddler arrived early and tuned their instruments so that everything began right on time, and at the appointed hour. He and his friend, a fiddler, were very professional and very congenial and easy to work with. They accommodated the requests of my doctors to play various songs and even a special Happy Birthday to one of the doctors for his 50th birthday which happened to be the very night of our Christmas party. Bob dressed in a kilt which was lovely, he looked the part for our Scottish party and he also demonstrated that he has great talent with the bagpipes. I was thrilled that the Highland pipes he used to pipe in the food were just as lovely as the Border pipes which he played for background to the delight of our many guests. I would definitely recommend Bob to my friends or anyone who needed a great bagpiper! He is welcome at Foxhall Castle anytime! He contributed to the wonderful time had by all.
– Jennifer L.
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