Patriarchs, Pipers and Presidents: Gaelic Immigrant Funerary Customs and Music in North America

Barry Shears

doi:10.3390/genealogy4020063

Abstract

One of the most moving tributes to the dead is the playing of the Highland bagpipes during funeral services, whether in the church or at the graveside. This custom has a long history both in Scotland and in areas of North America settled by Scottish immigrants over the past 300 years, and for lovers of bagpipe music it is an essential part of the funeral ritual. Throughout its history the piper’s lament has transcended social class structure and has been performed for paupers and presidents alike. Despite being deeply rooted in tradition, the music and function of this musical practice have changed over time. Drawing from printed texts of the 19th and 20th centuries, recent scholarship and local folklore surrounding funeral customs and music, this paper examines the origins of the funeral piping tradition in Gaelic Scotland and its evolution in North American society.

Highlights

One of the most enduring customs of Scottish Gaels in North America is the playing of music on the bagpipes at funerals
Pipers today are asked to perform at weddings and funerals more often than any other singular event, an informal survey shows that 75 percent of the funerals requesting a piper are for men
There is, as yet, no published work dealing exclusively with the various aspects of funerary customs among Scottish Gaels in North America, such as sung laments known as Corronach, laments played on the Highland bagpipe, or associated customs surrounding wakes and funerals

Summary

Introduction

One of the most enduring customs of Scottish Gaels in North America is the playing of music on the bagpipes at funerals. This centuries-old custom has spread throughout mainstream culture so much so that it is no longer considered a purely Scottish ritual. During Remembrance Day ceremonies across Canada on November 11, a piper often plays a lament after the two-minute silence for those who gave their lives in war This tradition is not restricted to Canada. Is a natural part of life, but there is a paucity of anecdotal descriptions of funeral music and customs from the 18th century.

Literature Review

Discussion of Evidence and Analysis of Sources

Findings

Conclusions