Looking to add impact to your next event? Ed Arnold is a highly experienced Scottish bagpiper for corporate events, public ceremonies, and promotional campaigns. With over 30 years of performance experience, Ed brings professionalism, punctuality, and a truly unforgettable sound.
Armistice and Remembrance
The Great Highland Bagpipes have a long-standing and powerful presence at Remembrance events, thanks to their deep military roots and emotional resonance. Traditionally used by Scottish and Irish regiments to lead troops into battle, the pipes became a symbol of bravery, loss, and resilience. Their haunting and mournful sound adds a poignant layer to ceremonies, creating space for reflection and honouring those who made the ultimate sacrifice. Especially for communities with Celtic heritage, the bagpipes serve as a deeply meaningful tribute to fallen servicemen and women.
Ed has a long history of performing at Armistice and Remembrance Parades, dating back to his time as a piper with the Seaforth Highlanders.
Beyond leading bands, he’s also frequently booked as a solo performer. Notably, he led the Remembrance Parade in Knutsford for three consecutive years. In recent years, Ed has been a regular presence at the Coal Aston (Derbyshire) Remembrance service, playing at the village memorial both before and after the ceremony.
Ed often gets rebooked for Remembrance Sunday, but may still be available depending on the time and location of your event. If he’s already booked, Ed will be happy to recommend other trusted professional bagpipers who he knows will deliver an exceptional service.
Sports Events
Over the years, Ed has been invited to perform at a wide range of public sporting events across the UK.
Highlights include piping at Old Trafford to welcome fans ahead of Manchester United’s match against Crystal Palace, and playing for the Scottish supporters at the Derby County vs. Hearts FC game.
Ed has also been honoured to perform at memorial tributes for respected sports figures, including Neil Abel of the Sheffield Scimitars Ice Hockey Team and rugby legend Roger Millward of Hull Kingston Rovers (Rugby League).
A particularly memorable moment was being invited to perform Happy Birthday for Sir Alex Ferguson at a private dinner in Manchester to celebrate his 80th birthday—a true privilege.
Other sporting events have included playing at the finish line for mountain bike races in Manchester and sponsored walks in Derbyshire.
Ed is available to play at any event and will travel to any location.
Corporate Events
Ed has performed at a wide range of corporate events, bringing the unique sound of the Great Highland Bagpipes to add a memorable and distinguished touch. His performances have featured at staff leaving parties, Christmas celebrations, product launches, conferences, promotional campaigns, and events welcoming international delegates.
Notable events include:
- Working with an advertising production company to create promotional material for the Rugby League’s Magic Weekend.
- Performing at the National Railway Museum in York for the unveiling of the Flying Scotsman.
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Travelling to London to appear in a promotional video for Vodafone, produced by LADbible. Watch here.
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Performing live on stage at the British Society of Dental Hygiene and Therapy (BSDHT) Conference at Harrogate Convention Centre.
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Welcoming travellers at Manchester Airport as part of a whisky promotion in the duty-free shops.
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Playing at a whisky tasting and Burns Supper evening at Booths Supermarket in Ilkley, North Yorkshire.
- Performing for a Christmas video for Thameside Council as part of their 12 days of Christmas series. Watch here.
Ed is a flexible and professional performer who can tailor his appearance to suit your event, whether you’re looking for a stirring entrance, a Scottish-themed celebration, or something to grab attention and generate buzz.