Funeral•Reviewed on October 11, 2022•From Lititz, PA
It was a pleasure to work with Gus. The Cooper family appreciated his service so much! There was a special request which he was able to play at the end of the service. Funeral homes are often asked to "find" a bagpiper and we are grateful he was suggested to us. Thank you Gus! Hope to work with you in the future!
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The funeral home hired me to play at a funeral at the Lititz Moravian Church in the doentown area. I plsyed on the village green during the visitation hour, and then played Loch Lomond at the conclusion of the memorial service. I wore the Modern MacBeth tartan.
Review by Jordan H.
Community Event•Reviewed on September 25, 2022•From Hamburg, PA
Awesome performer! We'll experienced. Would like to use more of you for the next event with more pipers and drums.
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I was pleased to play at the Berks County First Responder Fair at the Cabela's Outdoor World in Hamburg, PA. I played the National Anthem during the opening ceremony, and then Amazing Grace. I also play the Military Set and a host of Scottish and Irish tunes. It was a great event for a worthy cause.
Review by Tim M.
Memorial Service•Reviewed on August 29, 2022•From Mount Joy, PA
Gus was very responsive from first contact and throughout the days leading up to Dad's memorial service. He kept his schedule flexible to support us as we finalized the details. He provided us a long list of songs to choose from his repertoire, allowing us to select our set list and sequence. He had several kilt options and was able to wear one that closely resembled our clan tartan. He arrived early, so we had no worries that he wouldn't be there on time. His playing abilities equaled anything I heard when I visited Scotland, and he brought several of our family members to tears. I highly recommend Gus and I send him our family's thanks. Tim Mc.
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Tim hired me to play at his father's Memorial Service at the Mary Mother of the Church in Mount Joy, PA. Following the Mass, I played a series of Scottish tunes selected by him from my Piping Repertoire. The entire family and friends were very appreciative.
Review by Joe M.
Event•Reviewed on July 23, 2022•From New Cumberland, PA
We had Mr. Gus Person to our home to play the bagpipes at our Open Championship party on 7/16/22. The Open was being played at St. Andrews in Scotland. We had an inkling from reading Gus’s reviews that he would be a good fit, and an interesting and fun addition (to our annual party centered around golf).
In speaking with Gus in the preparation stage, he was informative and engaged. He really took an interest in what we were doing and how he/we could make it an enjoyable experience for all. His passion for playing is evident and all of our guests loved the added touch. And he’s a fine gentleman as well! We’re looking forward to inviting him again to our home.
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I enthusiastically played for Joe and Beth's British Open party at their home. Their home was decorated in British motifs, and they had an impressive collection of whiskies which I was obliged to sample. The pipes were humming, and I played all of their Scottish tunes. I met many of their guests and enjoyed discussing Scotch and my pipes and piping experiences. Great party!
Review by Grant A.
Funeral•Reviewed on July 5, 2022•From York, PA
Gus Person joined us for a memorial service. As always Gus embodied the qualities that one needs for such a service - professionalism, care, and adaptability. . He worked with me prior to the service to explore the ways in which he could help elevate the memorial service to a level worth of a Campbell. His selection of tunes captured the spirit of the day and helped the family celebrate the life of their dearly departed. Gus played during the service at the church and at the grave. The final lament was very moving. As always, I cannot recommend Gus Person highly enough.
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Rev. Grant Ambrose engaged me to play at the funeral service and interment of a Scottish gentleman. He died in 2021, but the interment was delayed because of the COVID. I played The Flowers of the Forest at the Prospect Cemetery.
Review by Grant A.
Concert•Reviewed on July 5, 2022•From York, PA
Working with Gus Person is always an absolute pleasure. Gus offered a concert for our "Candlelight Concert and Compline Series". Gus was well prepared and adaptable -- we were planning to be outside, but due to the weather, we moved the venue inside. Gus is a wonderful public speaker, very talented piper, and gracious. I cannot recommend Gus highly enough.
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Rev. Grant Ambrose invited me to perform at a Candlelight Concert at St. Andrew's Episcopal Church in York. We moved into the Sanctuary because of the inclement weather. I played a selection of Scottish tunes on the Great Highland Bagpipe, and some Irish tunes on the Smallpipes. A most enjoyable experience.
Review by Clare C.
Wedding•Reviewed on June 27, 2022•From Glen Mills, PA
Gus Person was a phenomenal addition to our daughter’s wedding. He was professional, a pleasure to work with, and provided great suggestions for appropriate songs from his vast repertoire. Gus was a surprise for our 127 guests and was the most wonderful pronouncement that cocktail hour was ending. He (and the bride and groom) then led all of the guests from the outdoor cocktail hour to the reception with the most moving performance.
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Clare hired me to play at the wedding of her daughter at The Inn of Grace Winery on an expansive estate in the western suburbs of Philadelphia. The estate was previously owned by the Kelly Family. I played at the conclusion of the cocktail hour to alert them that it was time to move to the barn for the Reception. I led the procession and played at the door to the barn while playing a selection of favorite Scottish tunes. The venue was idyllic, and the weather couldn't have been better.
Review by Earl P.
Wedding Ceremony•Reviewed on June 27, 2022•From Bethlehem, PA
Piper Gus Person was very easy to work with and was very responsive to communication when he played for my wedding. He was able to work with my requests from his repertoire and also make suggestions for songs that would fit well.
I also appreciated his use of the small pipes, so we could have the bagpipe sound indoors without the sound being too loud.
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Earl hired me to play at his wedding to Mary Ellen at the Lehigh Church of the Brethren in Bethlehem, PA. He was unusual as a client in that he knew exactly what tunes he had chosen to be played for the Prelude, Processional and Recessional. I also played a selection of Scottish tunes before the ceremony as guests were arriving, and after the service as guests were moving next door to the Reception. Earl was great to work with and I met many of the guests and family members.
Review by Gibby P.
Funeral•Reviewed on June 13, 2022•From Camp Hill, PA
Once again, Gus was awesome and fulfilled the specific requests of a family in need. As a funeral director, I appreciate the fact that he's reliable, punctual and easy to communicate with leading up to the event. His attire and professionalism at the gravesite were, and always have been, spot-on. If you need a talented bagpiper you can count on, I would certainly recommend Mr. Person.
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I was hired at the last minute by the Parthemore Funeral Home to play at the funeral interment of a gentleman in the Rolling Green Cemetery in Camp Hill, PA. As the family and friends were gathering, I played a selection of slow airs at the gravesite. After the final prayers, I played Amazing Grace off into the distance. Supporting this funeral home has become a very pleasurable experience.
Review by Gibby P.
Funeral•Reviewed on April 14, 2022•From Camp Hill, PA
Gus is talented, punctual and professional. He kept in contact with me leading up to the funeral, making sure the family's requests were honored and that the idea he had in his head would work at this particular cemetery. As a funeral director, it gives me peace of mind when he's involved. It is evident that he cares about the families we serve as well, and that is an intangible component that we feel is an added bonus. I would recommend Gus to anyone and everyone, and we will continue to request his services in the future.
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The Parthemore Funeral Home hired me to play at the funeral of a married couple at the Rolling Green Cemetery in Camp Hill who had died within three days of each other. Both were Army veterans. As the caskets were conveyed to the grave, I played the Army Song and a selection of slow airs. The family also requested that Amazing Grace be played following the final prayers. I wore military-style attire in Cameron tartan.
Review by Heidi S.
Birthday Party (Adult)•Reviewed on April 14, 2022•From Middletown, PA
Gus did a wonderful job playing at my husband's 50th Birthday. He played, talked about the bagpipes and how they work, and about the type of dress he was wearing. The guests enjoyed it very much. Definitely recommend him fir your event.
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I played at the 50th Birthday Party in Middletown for an ardent Irish-American. A large group of family and friends gathered at the Event Place. My program lasted about 40 minutes. I played the Great Highland Bagpipe and the Smallpipes and interspersed them with commentary on the pipes, my attire and piping experiences. This was a wonderful experience, and the audience was quite responsive.
Review by Ed C.
Funeral•Reviewed on April 3, 2022•From Palmyra, NJ
He was a consumate professional from initial contact through the day of the service. He was flexible in carrying out our wishes and the performance was excellent. I wouldn't hesitate to use him again.
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I played at the funeral of a deceased firefighter in Palmyra, NJ, at the local Fire Station. I began playing as the unit firefighters paid their final respects. I closed the service with Amazing Grace after the Last Call, and then played for 20 minutes as the mourners began to disperse. A large contingent of Red Knights, a firefighter motorcycle club were present.
Review by Pam D.
Funeral•Reviewed on March 28, 2022•From Mechanicsburg, PA
I couldn’t picture anyone better. He was patient, as things didn’t go exactly as planned. Very personable and shared history about the music and bagpipes. Was good with the young and old. Gus was the real deal.
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At the Armitage Club in Mechanicsburg, PA, I played at the Celebration of Life for an unfortunate COVID victim. He was a diehard Steelers and Penguins fan. I played a selection of tunes prior to the service, and then played Amazing Grace after the initial prayer. I enjoyed speaking with many of the family and guests who were all very friendly. Pam asked me to wear full-dress in Royal Stewart tartan. She was great to work with.
Review by Julia F.
Celebration•Reviewed on February 20, 2022•From Carlisle, PA
We were referred to Gus for our Burns Night dinner and thankfully I reserved his talent months in advance! Gus made our Burns Night! He was exceptional!! His timeliness on communication and scheduling was excellent. Although we had to change dates, he changed his personal plans to accommodate our event. He attended our rehearsals and went above and beyond to make Burns Night an unforgettable evening. Saving the best for last, his music was phenomenal. He captivated us all with his talent and character gusto! We will never forget this evening and will refer Gus always. Many thanks! Slainte!
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I was honored to play at a Robert Burns Dinner at the former Officers Club at the Army War College at Carlisle Barracks, PA. This was a premier event which required a great deal of organization and work. The venue was idyllic. Julia and her husband and staff were terrific to work with. I played a number of times during the evening and the pipes were humming. I even delivered a toast in Gaelic to the President of the United States. The evening also featured other talent by a number of other attendees. It couldn't have gone better. Certainly, the best Burns Night event that I've ever attended.
Review by Thomas G.
Funeral•Reviewed on December 23, 2021•From Milton, PA
This was the second opportunity I had to hire Piper Person, and as with the first, I am greatly pleased. Gus is a fine Piper and a Traditionalist in the Art. His demeanor and professional talent rates the highest in my years of securing Pipers for Law Enforcement Memorials. I cannot thank him, nor recommend him enough.
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Chief G. of the Selinsgrove PD hired me to play at the funeral of a USMC veteran and police department retiree at the Christ Wesleyan Church in Milton, PA. The funeral service was conducted indoors in the church. The full-honors portion was conducted outdoors by the front entrance. It was an honor to play at this evocative service, honoring a victim of the COVID pandemic, although the outdoor conditions were very cold and extremely windy.
Review by Grant A.
Church Service•Reviewed on November 24, 2021•From York, PA
Gus joined us (St. Andrew's Episcopal Church, York, PA) for a "Blessing of the Families" service (our adaptation of a "Blessin' o' the Tartans". Gus was 5-star across the board. His communication prior the service helpful and timely. He truly has a gift for performing and engaging attendees. His talent -- excellent. We were so glad to have Gus with us and look forward to having him with us again in the future. Slainte!
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A colleague clergyman referred me to play at a KIrkin' of the Tartans ceremony at St. Andrew's Episcopal Church in suburban York, I did quite a bit of piping: Processional and Recessional; a medley during the Offertory; and two hymns during Holy Communion. I also played in the Great Hall after the service, and even played some Piobaireachd for one of the parishioners. I met a number of very nice people who were very appreciative. I've already been invited back for next year.
Review by Ed G.
Wedding Ceremony•Reviewed on December 17, 2019•From Bryn Athyn, PA
Gus was outstanding as a performer at my daughter’s wedding and reception! He led the recessional inside the cathedral, with the bride and groom following him down the aisle. He then played from the top of a castle/tower as wedding guests walked below. (They were thrilled!) Then he piped the bride and groom into the reception. His performance and demeanor were exceptional at all three of these venues. We needed to coordinate things well ahead of time, and he was extremely easy to work with. He was also very happy to chat with the wedding guests during cocktail hour and pose for photos with them. Gus is a true professional, and I hope to hire him again. Thanks, Gus!
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This was one of the most memorable engagements that I have ever played - and I have played quite a few! The venue was fantastic. It included a Gothic cathedral, a Scottish manor house and clock tower, and an impressive lodge which hosted the Reception. Everyone I dealt with, including the staff and the guests were extremely welcoming and appreciative; including Veronica who chatted with me at length about Scottish history. The acoustics in the cathedral were incredible. The Bride had requested that I play "Highland Laddie" and "Cock o' the North." Piping in the clock tower was certainly a challenge as the wind played havoc with my full plaid and pipe banner.
Review by John M.
Celebration•Reviewed on December 1, 2020•From Bryn Mawr, PA
What a wonderful way to celebrate St. Andrew's Day with Gus piping in the Haggis. He was finely attired, skilled at playing the bagpipes and able to teach our guests about both the his experience piping but also happy to pass along his considerable knowledge about the history of the tartans and role of the bagpipes in history. We would highly recommend Gus for any occasion. Cheers!
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What a wonderful experience! I played at the St. Andrew's Day celebration hosted by John and his family in their magnificent private residence. I wore the uniform of an 1870s piper in the Black Watch. I played in the Great Hall before the dinner as the family and guests were arriving. The pipes sounded great, and the guests asked me to play The Flowers of the Forest which I played very movingly. John served a delicious dinner which included Haggis and Chicken Balmoral, plus a good measure of Scotch Whiskey.
Review by Asha D.
Wedding Ceremony•Reviewed on December 7, 2014•From Washington, DC
Gus Person did an absolutely outstanding job playing at our wedding ceremony. I cannot say enough good things about him as a professional and musician, and I give him my highest recommendation. Gus truly made our wedding ceremony and event to remember and took great care in making sure that he was prepared in every way. We are so glad that we hired Gus because he really cared about doing an excellent job and he was very flexible and accommodating. Gus was also very responsive and available by telephone and email leading up to the wedding, which made it a real pleasure to work with him on the selection of songs and practical details. We will certainly hire him again.
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Asha was great to work with in the planning for her wedding at the St. Regis Hotel in Washington, DC. We had a short introductory meeting in Alexandria, VA and my wife and I attended another planning meeting at the hotel before the wedding. The Groom's family came from Scotland for the wedding, and were resplendent in full Highland dress. I also played "The Brown Haired Maiden" during the Hand-Fastening portion of the ceremony. It was a pleasure to participate in this formal wedding.
Review by Kathy Y.
Wedding•Reviewed on November 18, 2018•From Lititz, PA
We are pleased to give Gus Person the highest possible recommendation. His presence graced our daughter's wedding with a memorable piping performance that enthralled one and all! We cannot overstate Mr. Person's gentlemanly demeanor, professionalism, and outstanding musicianship! He was so kind and patient in our planning process. On the day, he appeared in a stunningly impressive regimental tartan, playing in beautiful celebration mode--including special requests--as the bride and groom stepped from the chapel. He then skillfully led a march of delighted guests down the street to the reception dinner. It was an extra touch of blessing on an altogether lovely day!
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Kathy Y. booked me to play at her daughter's wedding at the Mary Dixon Memorial Chapel in downtown Lititz, PA. As guests were exiting the church after the ceremony, I played a number of tunes on the village green which had special meaning for the family, such as "The Green Glens of Antrim" and "Leaving Liverpool." I then led the entire congregation the three blocks down East Main Street to the General Sutter Restaurant for the Reception. I wore full-dress in Mackenzie tartan. During the cocktail hour, I spoke with many of the guests who were very interested in the pipes, my attire and piping experiences.
Review by Kathy M.
Wedding•Reviewed on October 7, 2014•From Culpeper, VA
Gus went above and beyond what we expected. He did everything to make sure the bride and groom had a SPECIAL day from letting them pick his attire to searching a particular song they wanted and learning it. He could not have done more to add that unique twist to their day. I would HIGHLY recommend Gus. He even went out of his way to check out the church to make sure the pipes would not be too much for the small church. His piping added to the IRISH wedding and the couple as well as guests loved it. I would strongly recommend Gus and would have him play for us again in a second!
THANK YOU GUS!
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The Groom's mother hired me to play at this traditional Irish wedding in Culpeper, VA. I attended the rehearsal and played extensively during the ceremony. I also played the Bridal Couple down the aisle and out of the church. A Yellow Jacket stung my lip while I played outside, but I recovered quickly and continued playing! I also played at the Reception at a local Hunt Club as guests were arriving. I was happy to stay for photos. All of the families were incredibly appreciative, and it was a pleasure to play for this happy event.
Review by Donald R.
Birthday Party (Adult)•Reviewed on May 9, 2021•From Gettysburg, PA
We are very grateful to Mr. Gus Person. It was our Mother’s birthday and we wanted to make this birthday special. From the very beginning, Gus was completely accommodating to our wishes and made wonderful suggestions. He is man of enormous talent and plays the bagpipes with genuine passion. His repertoire is both notable and extensive. He has an array of dress uniforms to match the occasion and on the big day his garb was impressive and noble. We thank Gus for his impeccable professionalism, but most of all heartfelt gratitude for making my mother’s birthday truly uplifting and joyous. We can recommend Gus Person with complete confidence to make your event special.
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This was a most unusual event. I played at the 95th birthday celebration of a gentle lady who was sheltering at home. I played while marching up the lane to her home, and then played outside her front window. She was very appreciative, as were her family and other guests. It turned out to be a beautiful day in an idyllic setting. The home was located in a historic section of the Gettysburg battlefield. I greatly enjoyed participating in this event and meeting all the friendly people.
Review by Sandra C.
Wedding•Reviewed on August 22, 2019•From Leola, PA
I can't say enough wonderful things about our experience with Gus Person! He was so responsive to e-mails, provided us with music selections and examples of his kilts. He kept in touch up to the event! He wore "our" kilt pattern for the wedding!!! The music was perfect and was a highlight of our wedding. As soon as he started to play, I cried!! Gus played and walked us in to the reception providing a grand entrance! It was exceptional. Don't hesitate to have him for your event....absolutely excellent! Many thanks again to Gus for helping to make our day even more special and magical!
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It was a great experience to play at Sandy and Bill's wedding. It was a warm day, but I took advantage of the shade. I wore an Ancient McConnell kilt, Bill's clan and family tartan. Sandy was great to work with, and the guests and families were extremely welcoming. I posed for a lot of photos. The crowd's response to my playing of "Highland Laddie" to lead the Bridal Couple into the Reception was thrilling. I also liked the string quartet that played during the ceremony and the cocktail hour.
Review by Daryl M.
Wedding Ceremony•Reviewed on October 25, 2021•From Lititz, PA
Gus was a pleasure to work with and made our ceremony extra memorable, and helped us with our special request: During the recessional, after we were announced as man and wife, Gus began playing Highland Laddie down the aisle to receive us and we followed him out of the church. He then continued playing as the guests exited and then led them a few blocks through town to the inn where our reception was being held. Everyone raved about it, and loved how it made our day extra festive!
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It was a pleasure to work with Daryl and Julie on the planning of their wedding at the Lititz Trinity Church in the downtown area. I attended the wedding rehearsal and met many of the family and guests. I played the Bridal Couple down the aisle after they were formally introduced by the officiant. And, as I had previously done at another Lititz wedding, I led all the guests down Main Street to the Lititz Springs Inn for the Reception. Naturally, there was a lot of community interest from the local residents and tourists. I played outside the Inn as the guests filed indoors. A terrific experience!
Review by Thomas G.
Funeral•Reviewed on January 20, 2021•From Middleburg, PA
An outstanding Piper, talented, courteous and fully supportive. When a planning sequence failed, he adapted to our new on the run plan and mastered the funeral. Playing under adverse conditions, this Piper's professional presence left a lasting memory to the officers, family and attendees of a Police Office Line of Death Funeral. I am forever in his debt. Hold fast.
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Tom, a local Police Department Chief of Police, hired me to play at the large, evocative funeral for another local Chief of Police in South-Central Pennsylvania. This was a very long day in very cold and windy weather. I played Lord Lovat's Lament as the casket was being conveyed to the hearse, and The Dark Isle at the cemetery as the casket was being carried to the grave as the sun set over the mountains. Amazing Grace was played as the American flag was being ceremonially folded. I played it as I moved slowly into the distance. Finally, I played The Flowers of the Forest as the police details were being dismissed, and the mourners dispersed to their vehicles.
