The Royal Piper

NEW YORK'S ONLY FULL TIME, PROFESSIONAL PIPER. CD AVAILABLE FOR YOUR LISTENING PLEASURE. Add a touch of Prestige to your event by having the only American Piper to have performed privately for Her Majesty, Queen Elizabeth II. When you want the best, the choice is simple. The Finest in Piping for WEDDINGS, FUNERALS, CONCERTS, SPECIAL EVENTS, TV/FILM and ALL OCCASIONS. The RoyalPiper specializes in SHORT NOTICE EVENTS and has been performing worldwide for over 30 years, appearing at hundreds of events to the delight of satisfied clients.

The RoyalPiper is your WEDDING SPECIALIST, with a vast repertoire of Scottish, Irish and Ceremonial music that will add the perfect touch to your wedding day. Recently retired from the NYPD, The RoyalPiper is a full time professional musician who has appeared on "West Wing" and "Third Watch" and was featured prominently on the ABC TV Soap Opera, "One Life to Live." This episode went on to win a prestigious Director's Guild of America Award in January 2007 for Best Daytime Serial. Choosing the right Piper makes all the difference in the success of your event. I treat every performance with the utmost care as if it were my own event. The RoyalPiper will be delighted to discuss an appearance at your next occasion that will leave a truly lasting impression.

Anniversaries, Apres Ski Parties, Awards Nights, Bachelor Parties, Bachelorette Parties, Banquets, Bar Mitzvahs, Bat Mitzvahs, Birthday Parties, Children's Birthday Parties, Casinos, Celebrations, Christenings, Christmas Parties, Church Services, Clubs, Coffee Shops, Community Events, Conventions, Corporate Functions, Country Clubs, Cruise Ships, Dinner Dances, Festivals, Fraternity Functions, Fund Raisers, Funerals, Graduation Parties, Grand Openings, Hotels, Jingles, Movie Soundtracks, Picnic, Private Parties, Proms, Resorts, Restaurants, Reunions, Showers, Sorority Function, Studio Session, Temples, TV Soundtracks, Weddings

• If I could give Al a better than 5 rating, I would! He was absolutely outstanding. He worked with us to figure out the PERFECT songs for each aspect of our wedding. He showed up dressed impeccably in his kilt! The music was beautiful! My husband and I adored Al, and we received so many compliments from our family! Thank you Thank you Thank you! -- Kayla M, Tarrytown, NY, 5/26/2009
• Al was amazing…If you are looking for a talented Piper for your special event, you honestly don’t need to look anymore, just hire Al. He was extremely professional, kind and made our day so special….even when he stood in the rain during our outdoor ceremony, he still had a warm smile on his face. He knows tons of songs and made some great recommendations for our wedding. Trust me, I don’t like to recommend people I don’t believe in and you will be guaranteed a great piper for your special day if you hire Al. In addition, take a minute to read his bio, it is really fascinating and he is such an interesting man. Thanks Al, you are AWESOME!!! -- Will W, Nyc, NY, 5/1/2009
• Al was wonderful from the minute I booked him for my wedding. He stayed in constant contact with me and made everything so easy. His playing was beautiful and really set the tone we wanted for the wedding. Everyone keeps saying it was the best wedding they've been to and I know Al helped to make it that way. -- Heather O, Berlin, NJ, 6/20/2009
• Al was professional, impeccably dressed, and amazingly talented. Everyone was blown away by his performance and since he was a surprise for my fiance, it was even better! Thank you so much!! -- Pauline K, New York, NY, 9/26/2009
• Al was amazing and incredibly helpful and understanding. Hiring a piper was a gift for my (now) husband, and Al was definitely up for the challenge of helping me surprise him. I received numerous compliments throughout the evening on both how wonderful the surprise and how talented the piper. Al truly added something special to our day. -- Stephanie S, Montclair, NJ, 5/24/2009
• The Royalpiper was wonderful! Our guests enjoyed the music and provided excellent service! -- Lisa A, Philadelphia, PA, 9/26/2009
• Al was an absolute pleasure to deal with and a superb piper. From the time I submitted a quote request to the day of our event, Al was easily reachable via phone or email. He was flexible when we needed to push the start time of our event back just a few days prior to the event. And finally, we couldn't have been happier with the quality of play and his personality. We would highly recommend Al to anyone considering a piper for their special occasion. Thanks Al! -- Matthew R, Hoboken, NJ, 3/7/2009
• Every aspect of our interaction with Al was excellent. He was personable, agreeable, made good suggestions, was prompt and cordial with our guests. Even a torrential downpour did not impede his performance or his friendly spirit. We'd hire him again in a minute! -- Margo S, Philadelphia, PA, 8/22/2009
• Al was absolutely fantastic. There were a handful of guest that had heard several bagpipers in the past and each of them said Al was the best they have ever heard. I personally recommend Al to anyone looking for this type of entertainment. -- Charlotte T, Andover, NJ, 5/21/2009
• Al was a gentleman and a pleasure to work with. Thank you again for being part of our special day. Corlies Chong -- Corlies C, Spring Lake, NJ, 8/16/2009
• Plain and simple, Al is a class act. I ventured onto this site not knowing what to expect but The Royal Piper certainly made it worthwhile. From our initial phone conversation, I knew he would handle our mother's funeral with both professionalism and compassion. Despite a rather soggy day at the cemetery, Al was the first to arrive. When my family exited their vehicles he greeted us with his pipes and our emotions swelled. Al played dramatic versions of 'Amazing Grace' and 'Danny Boy' and while our mother was only there in spirit, I know she too was moved. I cannot praise Al enough for what he did for me, my family and Mom during this difficult time. Thank you... -- Terry B, Hawthorne, NY, 11/15/2008
• From our initial conversation to our final confirmation he was quick to respond to any questions or concerns and was very friendly. On the day of our event he exceeded our expectations and I still get compliments today on how wonderful he was. He made our day extra special and we couldn't be happier with our choice in the Royal Piper. -- Elizabeth W, Asbury Park, NJ, 7/5/2009
• The Royal Piper delivered exactly as promised. He played for a memorial mass for my father this weekend, and did a fine job. Al was very compassionate, warm and professional - oh and he played the bagpipe very well! The recessional song of Amazing Grace, accompanied by the church organist was beautifully done, and very moving - brought out a lot of emotion. Thanks from the whole family Al. -- Patrick M, Tarrytown, NY, 2/28/2009
• Al is fabulous! Thanks Al - everyone loved your piping it was perfect. Thanks so much -- Emily R, New York, NY, 11/15/2008
• Al was wonderful & so much more than i ever could of imagined. Thank you so much for making my special day so much more.I called him several times with so many questions & he always answered everyone & never rushed me or made me feel like i was bothering him. If any one is looking for a piper he is the man for the job, it was so windy & chilly the day of my wedding & he played the entire time with no complaint, everyone at the reception talked so much about how they loved him & us as well, i am already thinking of what we can do next to have him play at..Al THANK YOU SO MUCH YOU WILL NEVER KNOW HOW MUCH YOU MADE OUR DAY.. Bernadette & Stephen Kelleher -- Bernadette P, Carmel, NY, 10/3/2008
• We were very pleased with Al's performance. He was on time, played beautifully until we were leaving in the limo just as he promised. We gave him a few requests for him to play and he did. He dressed very elegantly. He sent us his CD to listen to as well which is a great way we can remember his music at any time. Thanks again -- Laura R, Middletown, NJ, 9/5/2008
• I cannot say enough good things about Al, the Royal Piper. My husband loved pipers and it would not have seemed right not to have a piper at his memorial Mass. Al arrived at the Fordham University Chapel early and was very solicitous and caring. He took total responsibility for his program which was beautiful. Following the service, Al "piped" everyone across the campus to the reception which was a very nice touch. I could not have asked for anyone more pleasant to work with and would recommend him without hesitation. -- Mary M, New York, NY, 6/19/2008
• The Royal Piper was wonderful! He was right on time, and ready to play right as I walked into the church. The Scottish Marches that he played were fantastic ! If anyone is looking for a fine piper,I would highly recommend Al Gonzales! -- Heather M, Valley Stream, NY, 7/4/2008
• Al performed at my wedding on December 8th. I asked him to perform as a surprise for my husband. Al was beyond accommodating! He pulled off the surprise PERFECTLY! Everyone, including my husband was shocked and amazed by the special touch he added to the day. I could not have asked for a more caring, professional, talented performer. I can't thank you enough, AL! -- Natasha D, Dumont, NJ, 12/8/2007
• The Royal Piper was terrific. He did exactly what I asked of him and was incredilby pleasant. Our guests were very impressed and many complimented his talent. I would definitely hire him again and hope others do too. Thank you, AL!!!! -- Rita W, Verona, NJ, 7/11/2008
• From start to finish Al "The Royal Piper" was fantastic. He was helpful and professional and just a real gentlemen. And man, can he play those pipes! Thank you, Al - you were perfect!, -- George S, Astoria, NY, 11/28/2007
• Al did a wonderful job at our wedding - our guests were raving about how awesome he looked and how great he sounded. He did everything perfectly! -- Katie O, Stony Point, NY, 6/20/2008
• The Royal Piper performed beyond our requirements and expectations. he had taken initiative where our planning fell short and smoothed our overall experience. The Royal Piper turned out to be warmest memory of the day. Our highest regards, the Wallis'. -- Jim W, Essex, CT, 2/23/2008
• The Royal Piper more than exceeded our expectations. He worked with us to provide exactly the right music for the occasion. He is a consummate professional and I would not hesitate to recommend him to anyone requiring the services of a bagpiper. -- Carol L, Staten Island, NY, 11/4/2007
• This was a surprise for my Father's 90th birthday. The Royal Piper was not only delightful, he took interest in visiting with my dad and was a wonderful addition to the party. Everyone was impressed with him. We were just absolutely delighted with him in every aspect. PJK -- Pamela K, Simsbury, CT, 10/27/2007
• We never met him before the wedding, but the Royal Piper did a phenomenal job for us. We highly recommend him to anyone who wants a first class Piper. -- Marisa R, Shelton, CT, 10/6/2007
• Al , The piper himself, was outstanding.From the tine we booked him through the wedding, he was the epitome of a great proffesional. He sounded great,was a pleasure to work with, and has been complimented by many friends and family. Thanks!!! -- Mike D, Highlands, NJ, 9/29/2007
• When Al contacted me to book my Dad's 60th birthday event, he was the absolute most pleasant person I ever spoke with on the phone. He was sooo nice & explained exactly what he would play for us that day ! The day of the event we could not believe our ears, Al was truly out of this world. It was a surprise for my Dad, as Al entered the room playing music everyone was so touched. Al was just as nice in person as over the phone. He really was the Hit of out event ! I would recommend him to everyone & anyone. Thanks so much Al for such a memorable time at our Dad'a 60th Birthday ! We are so thrilled to have met you & expierience your great talent ! -- Nancy M, Yonkers, NY, 7/22/2007
• Al was so great to work with and very accomodating. This was a surprise for my Dad's birthday at our family reunion. I knew my Dad loved the bag pipes and thought this would be such a great gift for him. He was overwhelmed and had tears in his eyes as Al came in playing "When Irish Eyes are Smiling." I could not have asked for it to go better. Al is such a nice person and was eager to make this such a special event for my Dad and everyone else in attendance. Amazing job!!! -- Kathleen L, Tuxedo, NY, 5/19/2007
• I hired Al to surprise my new wife as we exited the church directly following our wedding ceremony. He pulled off the surprise perfectly and performed brilliantly! I highly reccomend Al to anyone looking for a true proffessional that can really perform. -- Adam F, Summit, NJ, 5/12/2007
• EVERYONE WAS THRILLED AND ENJOYED HIS PERFORMANCE. IT WAS A GREAT ADDED ENTRY TO OUR WEDDING AND HE MADE EVERYTHING COMPLETE. I WOULD DEFINITELY HIRE AL AGAIN AS HE IS A GREAT PROFESSIONAL -- Nancy D, Farmingdale, NY, 3/16/2008
• I spoke with the Royal Piper on the phone and we corresponded via email several times before my husband's surprise birthday dinner party so I felt I knew him by the time he arrived on site. I was certainly surprised, however, to see how impressive he looked in his Highland attire. Just before the coffee and cake were served, the Royal Piper marched in and surprised everyone by entertaining us with some Irish favorites. He was professional in every sense of the word. Many guests were moved to tears by his music. There were some laughs, too. He was the perfect addition to the party. -- Lenora B, East Brunswick, NJ, 4/20/2008
• Al (The Royal Piper) was fantastic! He accommodated some last minute requests on the day of the event and sounded great! He even impressed my grandfather - a former bagpipe band leader and tough critic! His attire was very traditional and perfect for the event. Al was a big hit at our wedding - leading us in the recessional from the ceremony and grand entrance into the reception. Having Al play at our wedding was a huge hit. People have been calling, telling us how much they enjoyed his playing. Plus I really enjoyed talking with him during the planning stages. I would highly recommend the Royal Piper for any occasion. thanks again Al! -Scott C. -- Scott C, New York, NY, 4/18/2008
• We had Al play at our wedding ceremony as our guests were entering and leaving the church. It was a surprise for my father and he loved it! It was a very nice personal touch to our wonderful day! Thanks Al! -- Allyson K, Hyde Park, NY, 7/12/2008
• We hired the Royal Piper to play at our NY Jets tailgate party and and could not have been more pleased. Al was beyond accomodating for what we were looking to do and came through with a great performance. During the days leading up to the event, Al was always accessible to answer any questions and leave us with a feeling that we had made the right choice with him. It is without any reservations whatsoever that I would recommend Al for anyone looking to hire a bagpiper. In terms of professionalism, flexibility, price, and talent, you're not going to find anyone better than the Royal Piper! -M. Jordan -- Michael J, East Rutherford, NJ, 9/14/2008
• I had a great experience with The Royal Piper. He was very easy to talk to, he answered all of my questions and returned my emails promptly. All of my guests loved him and I would highly recommend him to anyone seeking a wonderfully talented bagpiper. -- Priscilla P, New York, NY, 9/27/2008
• He was so easy to work with and a real resource for me in planning my father's funeral. He had many helpful suggestions for the music, not just for the bagpipes but just overall too. I very much appreciated his professionalism and sensitivity in a very difficult time for me. -- Kelly T, New York, NY, 1/2/2009
• The "Royal Piper's" presentation and talent blew our small party attendees away. He was definitely the focal point of our party and I would recommened him very highly for any event. Our event was small and "family-like" and he fit right in. All our guests and friends still keep talking about him and how much they enjoyed his performance, demeanor and professionalism. He literally made our party. -- Dawn S, Staten Island, NY, 1/25/2009
• The Royal Piper (Al) was most accommodating and professional. He was right on time and, even though the party was delayed for about 1/2 hour, Al never offered a complaint about having to wait. He instead helped to put me at ease. He also offered to play a few songs gratis. I also like that Al provided suggestions on how to make his entrance and the event most memorable. I would recommend The Royal Piper without hesitation. -- Robert S, New Rochelle, NY, 1/24/2009
• Accomodating, prompt, congenial, and talented. A good bet when you need a Scottish entertainer other than Susan Boyle. -- Jack D, Norwalk, CT, 4/25/2009
• He was early for the event (it was a surprise). He played everything I asked him to play and he was a big hit with my husband as his surprise wedding gift!!! I would highly recommend him! -- Kristen G, Philadelphia, PA, 6/6/2009
• Al was very accomodating. It was a surprise birthday party and he met the people attending on a street corner a block from the house and led them in a march to the house. He also stayed for a good half hour and joined in the party. He explained the workings of the bagpipes to those interested. He made it a very special occasion. Mike Wiley -- Janet W, Hawthorne, NJ, 7/25/2009

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