From traditional Scottish ceremonies to unique modern-day celebrations, bagpipers bring a timeless sound that turns any event into a memorable one. Phoenix is home to some of the most dedicated and talented pipers in Texas—whether you’re planning a wedding, honoring a loved one, or adding flair to a festival, these musicians will deliver an unforgettable performance.
Here are seven of the most talented bagpipers in Phoenix for private events in 2025:
Stephen Sutherland Holter (Arizona Bagpiper)
Looking for a professional bagpiper in Phoenix, Tucson, or nearby communities? Stephen Sutherland Holter, winner of two categories at the 2022 World Online Piping and Drumming Championships, provides expert bagpipe music for weddings, funerals, parties, corporate events, and more. Growing up surrounded by the piping tradition (his cousins founded the San Antonio Pipes and Drums), Stephen brings years of experience and award-winning talent to Arizona. From solo performances to pipe band appearances, Stephen’s impressive resume includes sharing the stage with The Chieftans, opening for Rod Stewart, and performances with The Piano Guys and Gaelic Storm. Contact Stephen today for your special event!
Wheaton McClanathan (“Bagpiper Arizona”)
Wheaton McClanathan is a professional bagpiper in the Phoenix Metropolitain area of Arizona. With over 20 years experience over 1,000 events under his belt, Wheaton is in his prime and ready to perform for your special event.
Wheaton has performed in the 2.5 mile long Fiesta Bowl parade and was selected to play the funeral service for the ultra famous baseball player Harmon Killebrew in 2011.
Piper Ford Dudley
Hello, I’m Ford Dudley.
I am an active piper with Glendale Pipes and Drums, one of the most accomplished pipe bands in the Southwest. I was pipe major (band leader) for fourteen years.
I have played in competitions (band and solo bagpiper) in Arizona, California, New Mexico, Utah, Nevada, and Scotland.
🌐 Website
Phoenix Bagpipes team (multiple pipers)
Very few people in the Phoenix area have been playing here longer than Len. In fact, when people in the Phoenix area talk about bagpiping, Len’s name is often comes to mind. He is one of the more kindhearted, professional pipers that we have ever met. Len started playing bagpipes in Upstate New York at age 12 and has since played in bands in Charleston, Atlanta, Savannah, San Diego, and Tucson. He continues to play with the Phoenix Pipe Band after 15 years as Pipe Major. Len is also a guest player with the De La Salle Pipe Band in Waterford, Ireland. Len knows what it takes to sound great. It is an honor to have Len on our team!
Phoenix Scottish Pipe Band
Jeff Anderson began his gratifying Scottish arts career in the Dunedin, Florida school system, joining the Grade 2 City of Dunedin Pipe Band his junior year at Dunedin High School. He won the Southern United States Pipe Band Association (SUSPBA) Champion Supreme title for multiple consecutive years and was promoted to the solo open class in 1996.
🌐 Website | Facebook | Instagram | X | YouTube
Southwest Skye Pipes & Drums
Southwest Skye Pipes & Drums has called Williams, Arizona – the “Gateway to the Grand Canyon” – its home since 2008, with members throughout Northern Arizona and reaching as far south as Phoenix. A traditional bagpipe and drum band at heart, Southwest Skye has built a reputation of having fun and delighting audiences with both traditional and contemporary selections at performances throughout its 16-year history.
🌐 Website
William Thayer
My passion for the bagpipes first began with a soundscape CD that my parents purchased for me in 6th grade. I was participating in a school Renaissance fair, and I wanted some cool music to go along with my not-so-cool theme. I was an alchemist. The CD had bagpipes on it, and I would listen to it over and over. I wanted more. I bought another CD… and another.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re planning a heartfelt tribute or a joyful celebration, these Phoenix-based bagpipers know how to strike the perfect note. With years of experience, rich tradition, and unwavering professionalism, they’ll elevate your event with the soul-stirring sound of the pipes.
📩 Need help finding the perfect bagpiper for your event? Reach out anytime at dreamteam@booklive.com—we’re here to help make your occasion unforgettable.