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.
Review by Mike S.
Event•Reviewed on January 28, 2020•From Wilmington, DE
Gus was awesome. Loved him
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Mike hired me to play at the annual Robert Burns' Night Dinner at his British-style pub/restaurant in Wilmington, DE. He presented an excellent program, and I played piping selections in between the toasts and commemorations. Mike treated me to an excellent dinner including Haggis and Tatties. The pipes sounded great in the pub and included acclaim from the packed audience. I met a lot of nice people who shared my interest in Scottish history and culture. I wore the full-dress uniform of a piper in the 78th Highlanders.
Review by Kelli L.
Wedding•Reviewed on November 4, 2019•From Philadelphia, PA
Gus played at our wedding ceremony as the guests arrived and departed as well as played when my dad and I walked down the aisle. He was extremely professional, fast to respond, and made our wedding original and beautiful! We highly recommend Gus for any event!
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I played at the wedding for Kelli and Chris in a large, magnificent church in North Philadelphia. The frescoed ceilings were especially impressive, and the acoustics were tremendous. Along with the organist, I played "Highland Cathedral" as a Processional. The sound was amazing. I also played outside the church as guests were arriving, and after the ceremony as guests were departing for the Reception. Kelli was great to work with, and certainly appreciated my services.
Review by Kelly Anne C.
Wedding•Reviewed on December 16, 2014•From Washington, DC
Gus was amazing! The bag pipes were a huge hit at the wedding. Gus played as guests were entering and again as they were leaving. He stayed longer than expected and took plenty of pictures with guests. He even had a nice long conversation with my 93 year old grandfather. He is a very sweet man and very profession. Gus is very skilled at playing the pipes. My husband wants to have Gus at every family function from here on out! Thank you so much!
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I wore traditional Irish full dress at the wedding in Bethesda, MD. I played before the ceremony as guests were arriving and after the ceremony as the Bridal Couple were greeting their guests. The weather was sunny, but a little chilly, but I was very comfortable in my Piper's Cloak. Kelly Anne was great to work with, and her family was very appreciative.
Review by Michael W.
Funeral•Reviewed on October 14, 2015•From Abbottstown, PA
Gus was very understanding to our family needs, was prompt and professional and gave his knowledge and attention to all members of the family. We thoroughly enjoyed his music, his clothing and the history he shared with us. It was a perfect day to celebrate the life of our loved one and he made it very special. Highly recommend for all occasions.
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Mike: I was very happy to play at the interment for your dear wife. As you requested, I only played upbeat, lively tunes. You had told me that your wife loved the pipes and wished to have them played at her funeral. Also, thanks for inviting me to share the day, and some delicious food, with your family after the interment. I also got to play the Smallpipes with some singing accompaniment. Thanks again.
Review by Geoff K.
Funeral•Reviewed on May 24, 2018•From Ephrata, PA
I was looking for a bagpiper to play at my mother's funeral, but I didn't really know how it worked. Gus spoke with me on the phone to not only provide some guidance but also to accommodate a specific song that we wanted to be played. We emailed several times and he answered all questions I had. Not only did he do a fantastic job, he even played in the rain with zero complaints. It was exactly what my mom would have wanted. I'm not surprised by all the wonderful reviews he has received, and I am more than happy to write one as well. I highly recommend him, you can't go wrong!
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Geoff booked me to play at his mother's funeral in Ephrata, PA. I was able to brief him on usual procedures for the use of bagpipes at gravesites. Specifically, he wanted "The Flowers of the Forest" to be played - actually requested by his mother. I also played as the funeral cortege was approaching the gravesite, and after the last prayers were spoken. Although rain had been forecasted, it held off long enough for the gravesite service to be completed.
Review by David S.
Birthday Party (Adult)•Reviewed on August 14, 2017•From Hershey, PA
Recently, I contracted with Gus Person to share his talent and play at my wife’s birthday party. She was utterly shocked, as he stepped into the room. With a broad smile and wiping away tears, she enjoyed a private concert of her favorite tunes. In between songs, he provided interesting commentary and engaged the crowd. For those who are considering to book Gus Person, I would highly recommend him. I found him to be reliable, considerate, and personable. He listened to my plans and made helpful suggestions. His playing was excellent. He created a wonderful memory for my wife, which she will deeply treasure. For that, I am truly grateful!
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David hired me to play at his wife's Birthday Party at the Spring Creek Church of the Brethren in Hershey, PA. I wore MacNeill of Barra tartan kilt and full-length hose. My performance came as a complete surprise for his wife. My antique set of R.G. Hardie pipes couldn't have sounded better. They were really humming. I played a number of requests, and some of my own favorites.
Dave's family and guests could not have been more welcoming and appreciative. This was a great pleasure.
Review by Heather S.
Funeral•Reviewed on February 17, 2020•From Camp Hill, PA
Gus was wonderful to work with! He was hired to play at a funeral and did an amazing job! On such an occasion, it was comforting to work with someone so professional and courteous. We communicated through email and had a phone call to go over the details the week beforehand, he was on time (early, in fact) that day and played the most beautiful songs. I would recommend him, without hesitation, to anyone who needed a bagpiper. Look no further, you've found the right person!
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Heather hired me to play at her father-in-law's funeral in a local Episcopal Church in Camp Hill. I played some selections before the service, and then played Amazing Grace with the organist while the congregation sang along. Everyone, including the organist, priest, church officials and mourners, were very welcoming and friendly. The deceased had always wanted pipes to be played at his funeral.
Review by Jon C.
Wedding•Reviewed on May 21, 2019•From Lancaster, PA
Working with Gus was great, he's definitely a professional. He was available throughout the process to discuss music selection and when and where he would be playing, as well as what he'd be wearing. He arrived early, looked great, played great, was a pro from start to finish. I would definitely recommend him to anyone, no reservations.
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Jon was great to work with, and Katie was super-impressed that I was there to play at the wedding in St. James Episcopal Church in Lancaster City. I wore the full-dress uniform of a piper in 2nd Battalion Seaforth Highlanders. I played before the service as people were arriving, and for an extended period after the service as photos were taken and guests socialized outside the church. During this period, I also played "The Brown Haired Maiden" for the Bride who was a beautiful brunette. The families were especially appreciative of my performance.
Review by Carl P.
Funeral•Reviewed on January 26, 2017•From Fairfield, PA
Gus was genuinely personable and understanding and accommodating during the whole process. His musical talents were extraordinary and he went above and beyond to make my Mothers funeral an event to remember. Everyone commented on the bagpipe music at the church and the grave site. He is a true professional in every way. I would recommend Gus to anyone wanting to hear great bag-piping music. Thank you Gus!
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Carl booked me to play at the funeral of his mother at the St. Mary's Catholic Cemetery in rural Fairfield, PA. As the casket was being carried to the grave, I played "The 74th's Slow March." After the burial service, I played "The Flowers of the Forest," the traditional lament at gravesites. I also played "Amazing Grace," and then marched off to "Let Erin Remember" and "The Wearing of the Green," since this was an Irish funeral. This was a very dour day weather-wise, but I hope the pipes set the tone and uplifted the mourners. Thank you for hiring me.
Review by Patricia S.
Funeral•Reviewed on April 10, 2017•From Enola, PA
Gus performed at my grandmother's funeral. Gus did an outstanding job before and after the funeral and at the graveside ceremony. We were so grateful for Gus to help us honor and remember our grandmother! I highly recommend him to anyone!
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Patricia asked me to play at her grandmother's funeral in Enola. I wore full Irish traditional attire, and played at the church before and after the Mass. As the casket was being moved out of the church into the hearse, I played "The Green Glens of Antrim."
At the gravesite in Harrisburg, I played "The Flowers of the Forest," the traditional lament, and then "Amazing Grace." Patricia's family and other mourners were very appreciative. I wash happy to participate in this important event.
Review by Lauren S.
Wedding Ceremony•Reviewed on September 7, 2016•From New Tripoli, PA
Gus performed at my wedding on 8/13/16. He was super professional, and very helpful with suggestions. He was very quick to respond with any questions that I had throughout the process and showed up early for the ceremony. The pipes sounded beautiful and he did an amazing job! He even coordinated with the venue to play certain songs as the groomsmen, and bridesmaids walked out for the ceremony. Afterwards he stayed for pictures with the bridal party and any guests, and was happy to answer any questions people had about the pipes and his career! If you are looking for a beautiful ceremony you won't forget I recommend him without any reservation! Thank you so much!
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Lauren booked me to play at her wedding at a Golf Club in New Tripoli, PA; a rural setting and a magnificent venue. The weather was very hot and humid, and I appreciated Lauren's concern for my well-being. Her family was very gracious and generous. My performance was planned as a complete surprise for her fiancé, Brian, who loved the pipes. While this was a long drive from home, it was worthwhile to play at this impressive event. As usual, the pipes sounded great, and I played for the Processionals; and to play the Bridal Couple down the aisle after they were first introduced as Husband and Wife.
Review by Stacey L.
Wedding Ceremony•Reviewed on January 2, 2018•From Harrisburg, PA
Our experience with Gus was fantastic! He was wonderful to work with! He provided dress options for us to choose from to give us the look we preferred and music playlists to choose from as well as suggestions when i needed them. He was also very responsive to any questions i had for him. Gus was a huge hit at our wedding ceremony at the Capital Rotunda in Harrisburg. Gus's playing was indescribable in there... It was one the most magical experiences ive ever had! I would hire him again in a heartbeat! Thank you Gus!!!!!!
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This was a great opportunity to play in such an impressive venue! Not many pipers get to do this. The acoustics inside the Capitol Rotunda were terrific - there was a double echo every time I stopped playing.
I'm glad i attended the rehearsal as it gave me time to make sure that everything would go well, including slow marching and playing "The Skye Boat Song" up the double staircase.
Stacey and Roy were great to work with. I tried hard to be flexible and accommodate all their wishes. I wore MacNeill of Barra tartan and half-plaid. I can still wear the same kilt that I've worn since 1965.
Review by Lauren S.
Wedding•Reviewed on June 11, 2017•From Phoenixville, PA
Words cannot express how glad we are we worked with Gus! He has been one of the most talked about parts of our wedding day and for good reason! During the planning process, he recommended songs to play and avoid, as well as special touches that made our day much more memorable. I loved his idea of meeting us at the alter after being pronounced husband and wife and piping us out - such a wonderful memory! He was early, unobtrusive and just a genuinely nice man. I know my Scottish grandparents were looking down, thrilled with Gus' performance!
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Lauren: Thank you for an excellent review. it was a pleasure to play at your wedding in such an idyllic venue. The weather couldn't have been better. All the guests were appreciative and I spoke to a number of them during the cocktail hour.
Before the ceremony, I played a number of favorite Scottish tunes. You were great to work with. Mazeltov to you and Jon!
Review by Ashley C.
Wedding Ceremony•Reviewed on July 15, 2019•From Gettysburg, PA
I first met Gus at one of my friend's wedding and I was instantly impressed with his piping skills; I knew I wanted him for my wedding as well! Gus was THE BEST to work with throughout the entire planning process. His knowledge of piping songs really helped me make the appropriate song choices for our ceremony. Gus had nothing but the utmost amount of professionalism and was very dependable about returning e-mails in a timely manner. He was a big hit with all of our guests and he added such a unique aspect to our ceremony. Gus was willing to go above and beyond to make sure we had an amazing experience! GUS IS THE BEST!
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Ashley booked me to play at her wedding at the renovated historic Lincoln Train Station in Gettysburg, PA. This was a most unusual, but impressive venue! I really enjoyed playing in the parents, groomsmen, bridesmaids and Ashley and her father. I also played during Holy Communion and then escorted the Bridal Couple down the aisle during the Recessional. Ashley asked me to play them in during their introductions at the Reception. I greatly enjoyed meeting a number of guests and family members during the Cocktail Hour. Thank you Ashley! It was a pleasure to work with you and be a part of your special day.
Review by Karen S.
Wedding Ceremony•Reviewed on September 5, 2016•From Mechanicsburg, PA
Gus did a wonderful job playing at our wedding. He is excellent at communicating with you up to the event, He even made time to come to visit the church prior to the wedding and attend our rehearsal, We couldn't have been more pleased with his professionalism and the music at the event was superb. I would highly recommend booking him!
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I was booked to play at Karen's wedding at the Peace Church in Mechanicsburg, built in 1796. The interior of this stone church was small but very impressive. I'm glad that I visited the church two weeks before the event, and also attended the rehearsal to make sure my musical accompaniment would be perfect. I played outside on the Great Highland Bagpipe before and after the ceremony, and also played the Smallpipes during the Processionals. A number of people complimented me on the acoustics of the Smallpipes inside the church where I played from the balcony. This was a small wedding, but certainly enjoyable, and it was a pleasure to play for Karen and Sean.
Review by Robert C.
Memorial Service•Reviewed on July 12, 2016•From Annville, PA
Ltc. Gus Person is to be highly commended for his participation in the 1Bn 40th Artillery memorial service held on June 15th, 2016 at Ft. Indiantown Pennsylvania. Ltc. Person added dignity, a sense of high purpose to what was a solemn memorial service honoring our unit members killed in action in Viet Nam 1966-1969' as well as those members who have passed on since our return home. We thank Ltc. Person for his contribution to our most memorable reunion and memorial service. I would highly recommend Ltc person who enhance any occasion.Again, we owe Ltc. Gus Person a high degree of gratitude. Thank you.
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Bob: Thanks for your kind sentiments. We are old friends, having worked for many years together in the New York State Division of Parole. It was my pleasure to play at the Memorial Service for your Vietnam War-era veteran's association. It was also a pleasure to speak with many of your veterans about the pipes, my uniform and my own military experience. It was great to see you again, and I look forward to getting together in the near future.
Review by shailender g.
Wedding Ceremony•Reviewed on November 15, 2016•From Baltimore, MD
absolute wonderful!
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Mr. Gola booked me to play at the wedding of his daughter and future son-in-law, Brendan, of Scottish heritage. This was basically an Indian wedding, conducted at the Marriot Hotel at the Inner Harbor in Baltimore. It was also a merger of two cultures. A number of Brendan's relatives arrived from Scotland. I played on the harbor walkway while Brendan mounted a white horse with an elaborate saddle blanket. I also played the Groom and Groomsmen into the wedding ceremony room. This was a very elaborate wedding, and something interesting and unusual. I wouldn't have missed it!
