Bev Palin, Northumbrian Piper

What are the Northumbrian smallpipes?
It’s important to be aware that the Northumbrian smallpipes are a very, very different instrument compared to the more familiar Highland (Scottish) bagpipes. They are smaller, quieter and have a sweeter tone, which is much more practical when the piper is to be stationed indoors, or to provide background music! The most obvious difference, other than the more user-friendly sound, is that they are blown by a set of bellows strapped under the arm rather than a blowpipe to the mouth, which Bev feels is far more dignified!

The repertoire of the pipes is traditionally Northumbrian and a combination of ancient traditional tunes passed down through generations of pipers, and material composed specifically for the instrument, although always in the folk idiom - Bev can usually recommend a good tune for any occasion, and has a good selection from heart-rending slow airs to stately marches and lively jigs and reels.

How will Bev perform at my event?
However you want! For example, for a civil wedding the piper would arrive half an hour beforehand to greet the guests with music as they arrive, meet the bride and lead her down the aisle, provide a selection of music at the Signing of the Register, lead the happy couple out afterwards, and provide background music while photographs are taken and/or drinks served. However this is entirely down to YOU - the piper can be as prominent or as background as you want, and Bev is happy to discuss any suggestions or requirements you might have. Prices for Bev to perform at your event vary according to your requirements and the venue, please enquire for details.

Who is Bev Palin?
Beverley Palin has been playing the Northumbrian pipes since the age of 9, and was taught by Joe Hutton, one of the most brilliant pipers of his generation. She began to work as a professional musician while studying at university, and specialises in weddings and funerals, although she can provide music for any event - please enquire! Bev has appeared on the BBC’s “The Curious House-Guest” and Channel 4’s “Meet The Natives” as Piper-in-Residence at Chillingham Castle, where she is piper to Sir Humphry Wakefield.

She has played at many different events, from quiet civil weddings to international brain-surgery conferences, athletics events and the 1966 World Cup squad’s annual get-together, and she loves a challenge - whether leading processions with horse-drawn carriages or serenading the sunset from a windswept castle roof, Bev will provide a personalised service for your special event.

She is one of less than a dozen working pipers in the full traditional Northumbrian dress in the country. Bev is a classically-trained musician (a pianist and organist) and brings her classical training to her folk performances. When not working as a piper she teaches piano and theory of music, and is the organist at St Cuthberts’ church. She lives in Amble and is married to Sam.

One of less than a dozen working pipers in the full traditional Northumbrian dress in the UK. She's played at many different events & is happy to provide a personalised service for your special event