Bagpipes bring a powerful sense of tradition, pageantry, and soul-stirring sound to any event. Whether you’re planning a wedding, memorial, parade, or cultural celebration, a skilled bagpiper can elevate the moment with dramatic flair and heartfelt resonance.
Chicago has a rich Celtic heritage and a thriving music scene—and that includes some truly exceptional pipers. From soloists steeped in Scottish tradition to full pipe bands with decades of performance experience, the Windy City has no shortage of world-class talent to choose from.
Here are eight of the most outstanding bagpipers in Chicago for private events in 2025—each one ready to bring timeless music and unforgettable presence to your occasion.
🪈 Scott Whitman
Scott Whitman began his musical journey on the tenor and bass drum with Clan MacAlpine Pipes and Drums and now offers solo piping throughout Chicago. Trained in both classical and traditional forms, he blends musical precision with Midwest warmth and charm.
🔗 Website
📱 Facebook
🪈 Les Lannom
A true Renaissance man, Les Lannom boasts a decades-long career across the entertainment industry. His bagpiping adds a unique, cinematic quality to any event, backed by an impressive professional résumé.
🔗 Website
🪈 J. Kevin Chapman (Bagpiping Chicago)
As the force behind Bagpiping Chicago, J. Kevin Chapman brings together his loves of music, history, and public speaking into stirring performances. Whether for a wedding, memorial, or cultural festivity, Kevin delivers impact and authenticity.
🔗 Website
📺 YouTube
🪈 Dave Johnston (Chicalba Bagpiping Services)
Chicalba Bagpiping Services, led by Dave Johnston, offers full-service bagpiping across Chicago and its suburbs. Whether performing solo or teaching aspiring pipers, Dave is deeply rooted in piping tradition.
🔗 Website
📱 Instagram
🪈 Shannon Rovers Irish Pipe Band
A cornerstone of Chicago’s Irish music scene since 1926, the Shannon Rovers are a legendary pipe band seen in everything from parades to presidential events. If you want high energy and deep heritage, look no further.
🔗 Website
📱 Instagram
🪈 The Piping Experience
Led by Matthew, a lifelong piper with roots in England, The Piping Experience brings professional-grade performances to all occasions. His international experience and stage presence make him an excellent choice for high-impact events.
🔗 Website
📱 Facebook
🪈 Chicago Bagpiper – David Cormalleth
With a wide repertoire of Celtic, folk, and traditional hymns, David Cormalleth offers solo and group performances for events big and small. His deep knowledge of the Irish piping tradition and distinctive presentation set him apart.
🔗 Website
🔗 LinkedIn
🪈 The Lone Piper
Performing for over 15 years and a member of the Medinah Highlanders Pipes & Drums, The Lone Piper is a go-to for weddings, funerals, and everything in between. His solo work is powerful and heartfelt, perfect for personal moments.
🔗 Website
📱 Facebook
Final Thoughts
From ancestral ballads to celebratory anthems, bagpipes have the unmatched ability to stir emotion and command attention. Whether you want a bold processional, a soulful farewell, or a bit of cultural magic, these eight bagpipers in Chicago will deliver a performance that’s as meaningful as it is memorable.
📩 Need help finding the right bagpiper? Email us at dreamteam@booklive.com and let’s bring the sound of tradition to your next celebration.