Reviews

Awesome Superstar Piper

i hired Dr. Pazo to play the Scottish bagpipes at my wedding.  My wife’s family is from Scotland and I wanted to honor her Scottish heritage with a piper playing beautiful Scottish songs.  Let me tell you, he is amazing, a true superstar!  He played every single song we requested and many more, including songs at the wedding ceremony as well as dancing music at the reception.  We highly recommend him as a great piper for any event.

Wonderful playing

I am professional musician and music teachers. I contacted Raphael about a year ago to play the bagpipes at my wedding; I also talked other pipers who called me with information.  What set him apart was his friendly demeanor, his knowledge of bagpipes and Scottish culture and the beautiful way he played.  Raphael never pressured us, and didn’t try to low-ball his quote to get the gig.  After having a better idea of what to look for when hiring a piper, I felt reassured that I was dealing with a professional musician with a lot of experience, who always listened to my ideas and offer his advice on how to make them possible.  Raphael was also happy to speak to my fiancée and his family to discuss the songs that they wanted to be played.  On the day of the wedding Raphael was elegantly dressed in a Red Stewart Kilt and Prince Charlie Coat, with all the accoutrements of an elegantly dress gentleman piper.  Raphael played at the wedding ceremony with our church organist and also played several songs at the reception.  His playing was beautiful and flawless. He is the best bagpipe player that I’ve ever heard, bar none. I highly recommend him to anyone who wants the very best.

Thank you Dr. Pazo for playing the bagpipes and singing at my father’s memorial service.  Your playing of Amazing Grace at our church was the most beautiful music that we have ever heard played on bagpipes; and your singing of Panis Angelicus and Ave Maria was divine.  Thank you!

We invited Dr. Pazo to play the bagpipes at our 25th wedding anniversary celebration. We were married in Scotland 25 years ago. With his music, we were able to recreate part of the magic of that wonderful day.  Dr. Pazo is a talented and skill musician and a great entertainer. He is very friendly,  skilled, professional and efficient.  He is also a great singer and a great conversationalist. His played beautifully the bagpipes beautifully and even sang a few songs as an operatic Bass.  We highly recommend Dr. Pazo to anyone who wants a great piper and musician.

Raphael has assisted the Livermore Pleasanton Fire Department Honor Guard for multiple occasions. He has played the bagpipes as many of our department’s ceremonies, including badge promotions, fire academy graduations, and several funeral services. We have found him to be very professional, reliable and competent. Always a pleasure to work with him. Looking forward to working again in the future.

Dr. Raphael Pazo played the bagpipes so beautifully at our 2023 9/11 Remembrance Ceremony for first responders in Sacramento County.  This was the most beautiful bagpipe performance I’ve ever seen. He is dependable, reliable and very punctual.  His dress uniform and presentation are impeccable, and he is always friendly and courteous. His renditions of Amazing Grace and Going Home were beautiful and flawless, and his performance of his original composition Salute to the Heroes of 9/11 was the highlight of the program. I highly recommend him to anyone who need a piper for any occasion.

Dr. Pazo played the bagpipes at our 9/11 Remembrance Ceremony and we are so pleased we found him.  He was referred to us by another law enforcement agency who had used his services as bagpipe player and spoke very highly of him.  Dr. Pazo is the consummate professional in every way: he is great communicator and promptly answered all our phone call and emails; he worked very well with the members of our Joint Honor Guards and Color Guards; he is always friendly, polite and adapts quickly to last-minute changes. He was is punctual and his elegant presentation and appearance are second to none. Lastly, his playing of the Scottish Great Highland Bagpipes is so beautiful and harmonious, the best that I’ve ever heard. I highly recommend him as a piper to anyone who is looking for the best.

I recommend highly Dr. Rafael Pazo. He was professional, accommodating and easy to work with. Everyone at our father’s 100th birthday party enjoyed the music and sang along with some of his songs. We would hire him again if the opportunity arose.

Dr. Pazo was a wonderful performer and shared extensive knowledge about the bagpipe and his history. He was exactly on time for the event and play flawlessly. We would have him again and highly recommend him!

Raphael was the answer to my dad’s lifelong desire to have “Amazing Grace” played by a Highland bagpiper at his funeral. We tried to find someone for a week to no avail, then just a few days before the services, I found gigsalad and subsequently was contacted by Raphael. I could not be more pleased than I am with his incredibly kind, clear, constant communication, but the true excellence was in his performance of “Amazing Grace,” as well as other hymns before and after the service. I would absolutely recommend Raphael for his professionalism, talent, compassion, kindness, and overall wonderfulness!!!! He even selected regalia that was as close to our family’s tartan as possible.
If I could give Raphael a million stars instead of 5, I would!!!

Thank you so much!!

Dr. Pazo played the bagpipes at my brother-in-law’s Committal Service at the Sacramento Valley National Cemetery in Dixon, CA and did a wonderful job.  From the moment I called him, he was very kind and patient, courteous and professional. His knowledge of bagpipes music and military protocol was of great help to us.  His military piper uniform was very impressive and elegant, and his playing of “Amazing Grace” and “Going Home” were the most beautiful renditions of these songs that I’ve ever heard performed.  I highly recommend him as a superb bagpiper with a encyclopedic knowledge of Scottish music and military customs.

Dr. Pazo is THE best bagpiper that you could possibly hire! His skills are simply the best. He is kind, intuitive, thoughtful. He played as we spread my mother’s ashes. It was beyond words. Everyone there was moved by the beauty of his music. Unbelievably good!

Dr, Raphael Pazo played the bagpipes at the Celebration of Life Service for both of my parents. He was absolutely amazing. He explained everything he was playing. He also did research on our family name and played songs related to our heritage.

He is reliable, professional, accommodating, and has a talent for music that I have rarely experienced.
I engaged him to play for my husband’s birthday party. I am SO glad I did!
He really made the event super-special. My husband and our guests were absolutely delighted with what we heard from him.
Would I hire him again? Absolutely – in a heartbeat!

Dear Raphael,

Thank you for playing the Scottish Bagpipes at my husband’s 60th Birthday Celebration.  Rhys was born in Cardiff, Wales, served in the Royal Marines and absolutely loves bagpipes.  Thank you for playing every song we requested plus so many more other great songs.

Raphael graced us with his wonderful bagpiper music at our mother’s funeral. He is extremely talented and an exceptional musician. Even before we met him in person, his kindness, compassion and understanding of what we were looking for was such a comfort to us in our mourning over the loss of our mother. His professionalism, presence and confidence in playing was the highlight of our mother’s gravesite service. Our family is forever grateful to Raphael — we will never forget him and recommend him highly to anyone wanting to have the most absolute beauty of bagpipe music for any event. Thank you Raphael from the bottom of our hearts!

Raphael played at our wedding over the weekend and not only brought his professionalism but also blended in perfectly with our family. He made our wedding that much more special!

Dear Dr. Pazo,

On behalf of our entire family, thank you for playing the violin and the Scottish bagpipes at our mother’s Memorial Service. The songs you recommended and played before the service were just amazing; and the songs that you played during the memorial service were so beautiful and flawless.  We will highly recommend your services to anyone who is looking for a great skilled musician and the very best piper.

I hired Dr. Pazo to play  the Scottish bagpipes at my mother’s funeral service. She was born in Scotland and loved bagpipes, so I chose Dr. Pazo to play at her service.  From the very first contact by phone, he was always polite, patient and kind.   On the day of the service, Dr. Pazo arrived early to meet with our church Pastor and coordinate the order of service.  His attire was very impressive and elegant. I was also delighted that he knew every single song my family requested and played them so beautifully on the bagpipes.  I highly recommend him as a professional musician, a phenomenal piper and a wonderful human being.

Dr. Raphael Pazo was a joy to have at my friend’s memorial service. He is very easy to work with and professional in every way. Communication was good and his playing was excellent! He played both bagpipes and violin for this service. I would highly recommend him.

Thank you Raphael for playing the bagpipes at our  St. Patrick’s Day Celebration at the Moraga Golf and Country Club and making this event a huge success. We enjoyed your great performance of a variety of  Irish songs that you played during dinnertime.  Thank you!

Hello Dr. Pazo,

Thank you for playing the bagpipes at my company’s celebration on St. Patrick’s Day. Thank you for working with me to keep your performance a total a surprise at our party. We really enjoyed all the dancing music your played and the many extra songs that you played.  You will always be my number one choice and I will recommend you as the most awesome piper ever!

Hi Raphael, Thank you for playing the bagpipes at our parish celebration of St. Patrick’s.  You music was enjoyed and help made the event a huge success.  I hope to see you again a other events and enjoyed your playing of bagpipes.

Dear Raphael,

Thank you for playing the Scottish bagpipes that the Cerebration of Life Service for my beloved husband, Richard.  My husband was very proud of his Scottish heritage and having a piper at his memorial was one of this final requests.  Your playing of  “O Flower of Scotland” and “Highland Cathedral” were among the most beautiful piping music I’ve ever heard, and your performance was very moving and enjoyed by all present. It was a real pleasure meeting you and will recommend you to anyone who needs a great piper.  Thank you!

Dear Doctor Pazo, Thank you for coming all the way to Chico to play the bagpipes at my birthday celebration.  I loved the way you played so many of my favorite Irish songs on bagpipes, which as huge hit at my party.  I will gladly recommend you to anyone who needs a great bagpiper player and entertainer.

Dear Raphael, Thank you for playing the bagpipes so beautifully at the Graveside Service for my late husband, James Francis Kelly at the Linden Cemetery.  Everyone enjoyed hearing the selection of Irish songs that your played. Thank you!

Hi Raphael,

Thank you for playing the bagpipes at my 25th birthday party. This was the best party I have ever had in my life and you music was a huge part of its success.  My parents and I were planning to have this party in Scotland; but I wanted to celebrate my birthday with my friends and closest family. You music brought Scotland to us in an unforgettable way.  Your music was very lively and upbeat, I enjoyed every song you played so beautifully, including all the songs my parents requested and all the songs you played with the Highland dancers, who got to dance to your live music.

I will highly recommend you to anyone who wants to have the best piper.  Thank you!

As a wedding coordinator, my clients often ask for recommendations and advise for musicians to play at their weddings. Having had the pleasure of working with Raphael many times before, I can say without any doubt or hesitation that Dr. Raphael Pazo is the premiere wedding piper and performer. He has an encyclopedic knowledge of bagpipes music, Celtic culture, Scottish and Irish wedding customs and so much more. In addition to being a top-level piper, he also plays the violin and has sings beautifully. He is always professional, prompt, polite, punctual. I highly recommend Dr. Pazo to anyone who wants the very best.

Dr. Raphael Pazo recently performed during a memorial service for my uncle who was a member of Clan MacGregor. It was very important to family to have bagpipes played during his memorial service. Dr. Pazo was incredibly professional and prompt during our initial phone call and throughout all subsequent communication. He arrived to the service early and was able to beautifully perform all of the songs we requested in addition to a prelude and postlude he curated for us. Dr. Pazo’s personality is very friendly, warm, and professional. His time and talent are worth every dollar. Thank you!

Raphael was very thorough and a true professional. Not only was he very easy to coordinate with, but he creatively added a few selections that greatly improved the presentation of our special event. His knowledge of musical instruments and sound was significant to the venue enhancing everyone’s experience. I would have no problems hiring Raphael again or referring him to anyone I know who is planning a special event!

Dear Raphael,
Thank you for playing the Scottish bagpipes at our family’s Robert Burns Supper this year. Thank you for playing so many songs by Burns, and for playing such a delightful variety of Scottish songs. Several of our guests this year are from Scotland; many commented how beautifully you played the Scottish Great Highland Bagpipes. Thank you for playing a beautiful prelude as our guests arrive, played during during the programme and for accepting requests from our family and guests. You rendition of “Auld Lang Syne” at the end was superb.

We are so glad you were available to play for Clan Grant again (I believe this is the eight time you’ve played for a Grant Family event). You are always welcome at any and all Clan Grant events. We are honored with your presence, you august company and your incredibly beautiful and amazing music. I shall recommend you to anyone who needs a piper and wants the best.

My mother was born in County Galway, Ireland and loved Irish music and bagpipes. One of her last requests was for a piper to play her favorite songs at her funeral service. I searched online and found several pipers in the area. I decided to call them and compare. Dr. Pazo was listed among the top bagpipers California. After calling two other pipers and get their quotes I called Dr. Pazo. He was was very attentive, cordial and friendly; he took the time to listen to me, and told me he was available to play for Mom’s service. He gave me a quote and send me a written quote by email and text. He also send me a link to his website, which has many songs recorded by him playing bagpipes and a link to his YouTube channel with videos of many of the songs I requested. Although I had gotten quotes from other pipers who offered to play for less (cheaper), Dr. Pazo made a great impression when I spoke to him. He was very patient and soft spoken, very knowledgeable about Irish music and Irish songs. He never pressured me to make an rushed decision to hire him (unlike another piper I spoke to, who was “cheaper”, very pushy and tried to rushed me into booking him). I am so glad I took the time to compare, listen to recordings and watch videos; it was all worth with because I now know that I hired the best piper!

Dr. Pazo is a true professional in every way: kind, patient and compassionate, friendly and cordial. He is a terrific piper, impeccably dressed and knowledgeable. He worked closely with the pastor of our Church and funeral director to coordinate the music. His playing was so beautiful and uplifting, much more beautiful than any other piper I’ve ever heard before. If you are looking for the best experience hiring a professional, look no further; I highly recommend his as a top-level piper with a heart of gold!

I hired Dr. Pazo to play the bagpipes at my fathers graveside service. My father loved bagpipes. I contacted Dr. Pazo the night before the service hoping for the best, and I got the very best. Even with such short notice, Dr. Pazo knew exactly what to do, and coordinated the details with our pastor and the military honor guard. His demeanor was very professional, kind and patient. He took the time to listen to my requests and questions and answered them clearly. I met Dr. Pazo on the day of the service and was impressed by his appearance in uniform, which was very elegant and beautiful. His music was absolutely divine and his playing of “Amazing Grace” and “Flowers Of The Forest” were the very best I have ever heard on bagpipes. But the most wonderful thing is how humble, caring and sympathetic he is a person. I highly recommend him to anyone who is looking for the best piper, a professional musician and a wonderful human being!

Thank you Raphael for playing the Scottish Highland Bagpipes and Scottish Small Pipes at my mother 101th Birthday Celebration last weekend. Your music was the highlight of the event; many of our guests who are from Scotland commented how beautifully you played the bagpipes. Thank you for playing every song we requested, for playing the additional songs, and take additional requests from our family members and guests; everyone loved it. Your playlist was very diverse and thorough and we enjoyed every single song.
My parents were both born and raised in in Scotland, and met and married during WWII. My father served in Scottish Regiment and always enjoyed the music of bagpipes. At their wedding in 1940, they had one the regiment’s piper play for them. My mother loved Highland Dancing and even competed for many years. Everyone was surprised when my mother go up and started dancing a reel and jig she requested.
Thanks again for making this day a magical event!

Gifted piper, totally professional and wonderful human

The bagpipes were very special to my father and we hired Raphael to play at my father’s burial and celebration of Life. We could not have been more pleased and my Dad would have loved it!!! Raphael played beautifully and was very easy to communicate and coordinate with on the front end, as well as day-of. He was open to our ideas and requests but also happy to take the lead at times. His experience is apparent. He is a master musician, but also very kind and humble. It was an absolute pleasure working with Raphael.

His piping was so appreciated by us and all of our friends and family at both services. Countless guests stopped by to compliment his music and mention how much Raphael added to this special day.

If I ever need to hire a bagpiper again, I would look no further than Dr. Raphael Pazo!

Dear Raphael,
Thank you from our entire family for coming all the way from Lodi to Santa Rosa to play the bagpipes and sing at the Celebration of Life Mass for my son, Kirk Brandt. We will always treasure the memories of you playing the bagpipes so beautifully and your resonant beautiful voice, full of the power of love! Thank you for playing such a varied selection of songs of the bagpipes at the Mass and at the reception; from the wonderfully beautiful Catholic hymns to so many beloved traditional Irish songs, including a the jigs and reels you played at the reception. You are the ultimate music artist.

Love,
Maureen Minto, Jason, Mariah and Alexa Brandt

Dear Dr. Pazo,
On behalf of my entire family, please accept our thanks for playing the violin and bagpipes, and singing at the Funeral Mass for my Father, Vincent Ballesteros. My father loved all types of music, including classical music and bagpipes. Before my father died, he told us that he would like to have a piper, a violinist and a vocalist for his funeral. We search online for local pipers and requested information. You made a great impression on us when you explained all the options, provided us with sample recordings and videos of your playing, and agreed to have a virtual consult with several of our family members us via Zoom. But what impressed us most was how answered every questions we had, offered suggestions and even played several songs for us via Zoom. You calm demeanor, no-pressure attitude, your musical expertise and patience definitely won our hearts. Just when when we thought that hiring was the very best choice, and then asked if you knew a violinist and a Baritone singer you could recommend and you played the violin and sang for us over Zoom we were sold.
Our family is forever grateful to you for playing the violin and bagpipes and for singing with such beautiful resonant Baritone voice at our father’s Celebration of Life Mass. Many of our friends were so impressed with your musical talents and skills and how beautifully you performed.
From the bottom of our hearts, Thank you!
The Ballesteros Family

Dear Raphael,
Thank you for playing the bagpipes at the 2022 Pearl Harbor Day Remembrance Ceremony help at Weber’s Point in Stockton, CA. Thank you for your very moving and beautiful rendition of Amazing Grace, and the song that you composed and playing honoring those who perished at the attack on Pearl Harbor on December 7, 1941.

Dr. Raphael Pazo, played at the memorial service for my friend and colleague. everyone loved it, and it was a very nice tribute. .

I normally don’t write many reviews. However, I have to do this for our awesome bagpiper Raphael Pazo. As chairman for the United Veterans Council of San Joaquin County and Commander for the Stockton Marine Corps Club I have had Raphael play at some of our ceremonies to include Veterans Day events, Memorial Day, US Marine Corps Birthday, Celebration of Lives, Funerals, etc. Every time he plays for us he does it in a professional manner and he plays what we ask him to. His presentation is spot on. I would recommend him any time someone asks me for a bagpiper. He truly emulates the camaraderie that we veterans have and the songs he plays are a testament of that. Thank you Raphael for everything you do for us. Semper Fi!

Excellent Service, beautiful music. All went well, exactly as planned. Thank you Dr. Pazo.

I have always believed in what is meant to be will be. My experience with Raphael falls under this thought. It was shared by him that I called within one minute of a prior event being canceled and we booked last minute as a surprise gift for a wedding. One of the bride’s family is from Scotland – some in attendance while recently others have passed. In honor of her lost loved ones who were unable to attend, I felt this would be the ultimate gift for the wedding. She had already requested a bagpipe version of O’ Flower of Scotland to be played during the evening. At the end of the ceremony when it explained that there was a special gift for her…the song began. Once she realized it was a live performance, the reaction of her and the guests were the highlight of the evening. But what I really want to share in this review was Raphael was easy to work with, made personal contact for details, and followed the plan seamlessly. He went above and beyond to give a unique experience for all guests. I recommend him to anyone who wants a bagpiper at any event!

I was thrilled to be surprised by my friends at my wedding to have a bagpiper show up. As a first generation American from Scottish decent, hearing the bagpipes being played mean the world to me. Having only arrived back in America from a visit to Scotland to scatter my fathers ashes in his homeland, the honor of having Dr. Raphael Pazo play was the highlight of the night. My friends knew that I had some bagpipe songs on my playlist for the wedding reception and knew that I wanted my favorite song played, Dr. Pazo made a surprise entrance playing “O Flower of Scotland”. There was not a dry eye in the house. Dr. Pazo played a variety of pieces and his selections were perfectly matched to the event. Dr. Pazo was professional, his skills were excellent, his appearance and performance were fantastic.

Our family traveled from all over the world for a gathering in Santa Rosa to celebrate our grandmother’s 96 Birthday. Grandma Lucille was born and raised in Scotland and loves every aspect of Scottish culture, specially bagpipe music. I did an online search for a piper and after talking to several, I chose Dr. Raphael Pazo play the Scottish Highland Bagpipes at the party. Dr. Pazo is very easy to talk to; he is patient, soft spoken and kind. He made me feel at ease with my decision. I had a very long list of songs that I wanted to hear and Raphael knew every song on the list. I contacted him several times with additional requests, and he answered every time within a few minutes.
On the day of the party, Raphael arrived dressed in a very elegant Scottish kilt made in our family’s tartan! His attire was very impressive. At the appointed time, our D.J. stopped the music and Raphael begin to play “O Flower of Scotland” on the bagpipes, surprising everyone there. He played many, many songs, each more beautiful that the last. My grandmother was so happy to have a piper at her party and asked if he would play more songs for her; Raphael played every song grandma asked for, some of which I had never even heard before.
Dr. Raphael Pazo is a highly skilled piper; his artistry on the Scottish Great Highland Bagpipes is emotive, expressive and very pleasant. He has a heart of gold and is a great and humble human being.
For those looking for the very best bagpiper, I highly recommend Dr. Raphael Pazo.

This accomplished bagpiper played at my mother’s graveside service on Friday. We can not say enough about his professionalism and kindness. His ability to play such soulful music at our most sorrowful time was amazing. My mother had requested a piper play at her service, and I was charged with finding one. Having looked on the internet and reviewed pipers in the area, I decided to call Raphael Pazo. I knew at once he was our piper. He is the most warm and kind gentleman, knowledgeable and accomplished. He was acutely aware of his times to play and when no specific songs were requested, he played songs that were very heartfelt. When the service was over, while talking with him, he mentioned he had been feeling a little under the weather, that did not stop him, he did not cancel at the last minute, he showed up! I am forever grateful. In the future, when we talk about mom’s service, we will remember Raphael Pazo.
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Dr. Pazo is a gifted musician, a responsive and consummate professional in his work. Our funeral home director connected us with Dr. Pazo as I requested a bagpipe player at the graveside portion of my mother’s funeral this August. Mom (and I) have Scottish heritage and she grew up with her Scottish Dad singing Highland songs to her and in turn sang them to me. So it would be an understatement to say this music was a very important component of Mom’s funeral service. Dr. Pazo phoned me beforehand to get a sense of what the service would be like and what our musical requests were. He was compassionate, kind, and efficient at a time when I was in shock from my mom’s death but needed to call on my executive functioning skills for funeral planning. Definitely a challenging time but I was so relieved that the bagpipes would be played at my mom’s funeral.

When the day arrived it was an incredibly moving and powerful experience to arrive at the graveside and see Dr. Pazo in his full regalia and hear the haunting sound of the resonant bagpipes which filled the air. The bagpipes and the beautiful songs Dr. Pazo played gave a weight and power, a somber honor to my mother’s life that I and my family will always remember. We grateful for Dr. Pazo’s artistry, empathy, and power as he played the bagpipes.

Some time after mom’s funeral I watched Queen Elizabeth’s funeral. When I heard and saw the bagpipe procession, I said, “I think we had a better bagpipe player at mom’s funeral.” That’s how great Dr. Pazo is!

Raphael was awesome! Your bagpipe music was wonderful! Our dad is smiling down from heaven

Thank you Dr. Pazo for playing the bagpipes at our mother’s Celebration of Life Service. Our family is from Scotland. Whilst we have often hired pipers for many family events, no other piper has played so beautifully as you played at out mother’s service. Thank you for working with us and for being so patient with the many changes we made. Many of of my family members are musicians and many of them commented that they had never heard the pipes played so clearly, so well-tuned and with such emotion. We will definitely contact you for all future family events and will highly recommend you to anyone who wants the very best in a piper.

Dr. Pazo is a great and very professional musician that has helped the Stockton Marine Corps Club (SMCC) in numerous Celebrations of life events for several of our Marine brothers and sisters that have passed away, we can always count on him to help us honor with dignity and respect our military members. The SMCC highly recommends Dr. Pazo not only for Celebrations of Life, but also for any other type of events.

I am a Scot and an a piper. I invited Raphael to play the Scottish Great Highland Bagpipes at my son’s wedding in Chico, CA. Before I spoke to him, I read his musical biography on his website, and watched every video on his YouTube channel. Dr. Pazo was very easy to reach, patient and considerate. On the day of the wedding, Dr. Pazo arrived early and gave us a chance to go over the plans and coordinate the queues. He was dressed in a very fine Scottish kilt, impeccably groomed, starched and pressed. Dr. Pazo played every single song I requested – even my request of “The Sash”, the theme of the Glasgow Rangers!
I highly recommend Dr. Pazo as a very skilled piper and top-level entertainer.

If you need a bagpiper- this is the man you want. Extremely talented and easy to work with.

We are so grateful that you were available to play the bagpipes at my grandfather’s graveside service with such short notice. You turned a sad occasion into a wonderful experience. Your playing was so beautiful. Thank you!

Dear Dr. Pazo, thank you for playing the Scottish Great Highland Bagpipes at our grandmother’s 106th Birthday Party. Our Grandma was born in Glencoe, Scotland and adores the bagpipes. She even picked out all the songs for her party and when she wanted them played. Your performance was truly amazing and made this family celebration one to be remembered fondly by all who were there. Thank for being so patient and flexible, for adapting so well to all the last minute changes we made and for being so nice about it all.
Our family in California is a huge Scottish Clan and we have hired pipers to play at many of our events and gatherings. As far a pipers go, Dr. Pazo rises above all others; he is reliable, friendly, professional and artistic. He is a superb entertainer and also looks amazing in his kilt outfit.

I called Raphael just a few days before our 9/11 20th Anniversary Remembrance Ceremony at the Rose Garden at California State Capitol. He was very nice and helpful, and was able to play all of the songs we requested. His rendering of Amazing Grace was moving and magnificent, the best one I’ve ever heard any piper play. I highly recommend Dr. Pazo to anyone who wants a top performer who is also professional friendly and just about the nicest man you want to meet.

Dr. Pazo really helped our 9/11 ceremony become something truly beautiful and meaningful. I called him the day prior to the ceremony due to the ceremony being planned last minute and he was willing to help in anyway possible. He played “amazing grace” and “flowers of the forest”. It truly was a meaningful ceremony due to his fantastic playing and his help. Highly recommend!

I met Dr. Pazo a few years ago when he performed playing the bagpipes at Grace Cathedral in San Francisco. We invited Dr. Pazo again to play the bagpipes at the 20th Annual 9/11 Remembrance Ceremony. His performance was magnificent and without any doubt he’s the very best piper we have ever had, bar none. Dr. Pazo communicated clearly and promptly with the organizers of our event and was always accommodating to our many requests. We are most impressed with his talent as a piper, his impeccable presentation and his professional and friendly way of dealing with the public. Dr. Pazo also composed a new an original song for this occasion and performed it with such passion, emotion and artistic expression. If you are looking for the best piper, Dr. Pazo is the piper you want. I highly recommend him.

Dr. Pazo is super talented as a bagpiper, along with being professional, poised, friendly, and incredibly knowledgeable. He made our celebration of life event extra special and memorable. He is worth every penny! You will be so glad you booked him!

We hired Dr. Pazo to play the Scottish bagpipes at our son’s wedding. We are originally from Glencoe, Scotland and wanted to have a wedding with all the traditional elements we would have back in Scotland. Dr. Pazo call us within just minutes of our online enquiry. He was very pleasant, and very knowledgeable of Scottish traditions and music, particularly music of bagpipes. Several member sof our family are pipers, so we knew exactly what we wanted to this wedding. Dr. Pazo played his vintage Henderson pipes (a truly unique and remarkable set of pipes) with a clarity of tone and beautiful musicality that rivals some of the best pipers. He played every single song we requested and just when we thought things couldn’t possibly any better, he surprised the newlyweds with a a present of an original song he composed in honor of their nuptials. After playing the song, to which the couple danced their first dance of their marriage, Dr. Pazo gifted them with a printed version of the song, as a keepsake of their wedding.

If you are looking for a talented and highly artistic piper, Dr. Pazo is your best choice. We highly recommend him.

My mother always loved the bagpipes, so it was very special and meaningful that Raphael was able to play at her celebration of life service. He did a fabulous job.

Dear Raphael,
Thank you for playing the Scottish bagpipes so beautifully at my mother’s 106th Birthday Celebration. Your music was the highlight of the celebration. Thank you for playing so many of the beloved Scottish songs that my mother grew up with in her native Scotland; thank you for willing to play additional songs requested by our family and guests. It was a real pleasure working with you. I am glad that we chose you from other among all the pipers who responded to our request, as you not only played so beautifully, but you really went over and beyond all our expectations. I will highly recommend you, not only as a skilled musician and great entertainer, but a kind, generous and good-hearted person who genuinely cares for his clients. I feel we got the very best piper, bar none.

Thank you Raphael for playing the Scottish bagpipes at my wedding ceremony and reception. Julie and I were so amazed at the way you play and a at how much our family and guest enjoy the top-tier entertainment that you provided for us as a highland piper, adding an element of elegance and class to our wedding. Thank for also agreeing to take requests from my family members, specially from my grandmother (96 years young) who really enjoy listening to you play every song she asked for. We feel that you are now a friend of our family and we will seek your services as a piper to us.

I hired Raphael due to his prompt response and kind demeanor. He provided a link to his previous work and I was impressed. He was very professional and worked with me on how to best showcase his performance in honor of my son who had passed. Raphael played as friends and family gathered around lighting sparklers. It was a perfect send off! I would highly recommend Raphael for any event a bagpiper would be desired.

Dr. Raphael Pazo is just awesome. He is very talented with the bagpipe and spent a decent amount of time educating us about the bagpipe. All around, the event was entertaining and educational. From a logistics standpoint, Dr. Raphael was super communicative and organized. I cannot recommend him enough.

Dr. Raphael performed at our wedding. It was such a pleasure to work with him to choose the songs for the ceremony. He also had many suggestions for the 30 minutes prelude he would be playing before the ceremony. We also learned a thing or two about bagpipes!
Our guests truly enjoyed the special touch he added to our special day.

We had a wonderful experience with Raphael as our wedding bagpiper in Petaluma! He was very professional and thorough about song selections and played amazingly. We received a lot of compliments about him. I felt like it just elevated our ceremony to the next level to have a bagpiper. Would totally recommend him to anyone!

My father passed away and one of his wishes was to have a piper played several songs at at the graveside service. I am a music teacher in Seattle, but didn’t know any pipers in California. When I researched on the internet, Dr. Pazo’s website and profile was a the top of every search. I also asked our funeral director; he also recommended Dr. Pazo as “the best piper ever” and told us that we would be very pleased with him, too. I then called Dr. Pazo; he was very friendly, thoughtful, patient and made us fell at ease. On the day of the service, Dr. Pazo was played every song we requested so beautifully and full of feelings and emotion. As a musician and music teacher, I highly recommend him as a very talented and highly skilled piper. Thank you Dr. Pazo.

Dr Pazo played for us for my dad’s memorial service. His playing transformed the event from a memorial into a celebration. The music chosen and the timing was just beautiful. His playing brought tears to many eyes. We hope to have Raphael play for us at future events. Perhaps for a wedding or birthday.
Thank you!

Dear Raphael,
Thank you so much for playing the bagpipes at graveside service and also at the reception for our dear mother’s Celebration of Life. You helped us fulfil her wish to have a piper play at her funeral. All of us, but especially my mother, loved the bagpipes. Your playing was absolutely beautiful, artistic and full of emotion; we loved your rendition of “The Isle of Innisfree”, a old but great song that our Mum and Da used to sing to all of us. Thanks again from the bottom of our hearts. May God bless you!

Raphael piped at our son’s wedding in our home. He was very communicative & helpful leading up to the event. On the day he was wonderful – a very talented piper and professional. We would highly recommend him to anyone looking for the best!!

Hiring a bagpiper for every wedding is an important tradition for my family. Raphael went the extra mile to make this event special! He was professional, extremely knowledgeable, communicative, flexible, and friendly. He arrived on time, played all of our requests, and even composed a complimentary song for the bride and groom. Everyone involved agreed it was the best performance we’ve seen at a family wedding to date! We plan to hire Raphael for all future engagements in the area – could not recommend more!

Many of my clients are of Irish and Scottish ancestry and often have pipers play at their weddings ceremonies and receptions. As a wedding planning coordinator I often  hire and recommend pipers for my clients  Last week, I had a last-minute cancellation by another piper, the day before the wedding. I found Dr. Pazo online and immediately I called him. Luckily he was available to play the bagpipes at my client’s Irish-themed wedding.

Dr. Pazo is a superb piper and a great person to work with.   I spend a few minutes with him on the phone going over the plans for the wedding, the songs requested and the timing of the ceremony.  Dr. Pazo is a true professional and took note of every single detail. On the day of the wedding, Dr. Pazo, arrived exactly as he promised and dressed impeccably.  He played the pipes as the guests arrived, and played three songs during the ceremony, including a new original song titled “Christy and Shaun” that he composed  and dedicated to my clients, and presented them a framed score of the songs he wrote.  Dr. Pazo is a true professional; caring, sensitive, patient and very friendly.  He is extremely talented and very skilled and know and can play songs from a huge repertoire straight from memory.  If you want the best piper, I would highly recommend Dr. Raphael Pazo.

Dear Raphael,

Thank you for playing the Scottish Highland Bagpipes at our mum’s 100th Birthday Celebration last Sunday.  She was born in Glencoe, Scotland, UK and is very fond of bagpipes and Scottish music. At her age, it is very difficult to travel to Scotland, where she wanted to celebrate her centennial. Your music and elegant Scottish attire you brought Scotland to her right here in California.  Thank you for playing every song we requested and for willing to take requests from our family and guests.  Your performance was really elegant and and real class act, especially when you play the last songs at sunset while our mum sang the lyrics; we will never forget how happy you made her by granting her that request. We also want to thank you for sitting down with us and for talking to our mum for so long. She really enjoyed your conversation and was so excited about “her chat with the piper”.

Dear Dr. Pazo,

Thank you very much for playing the bagpipes at our son’s wedding.  We had originally planned to have the wedding in Scotland, but after facing many challenges we decided to bring a piece of Scotland to us here in California.  Thank you for playing every song we requested. Our family and friends were impressed with your playing, your elegant dress and your friendliness. I will highly recommend you to all our family, friends and anyone who is looking for an amazingly skilled and talented piper with a great personality. You helped us bring a piece of Scotland to California.

Raphael is a wonderful bagpiper. He was very communicative prior to the event and very flexible in changing things up as the event unfolded. He was dressed to the nines in his Scottish tartan, looking crisp and professional.

Dr. Pazo was a perfect choice for our backyard memorial service. Responsive and communicative every step of the way. Arrived early and played perfectly, moving my family to tears.

Dear Dr. Pazo,

Thank you for playing the bagpipes and singing at my husband’s surprise birthday party. Thank your for playing every song that I asked for and for agreeing to take requests from our guests and playing even more beautiful songs.

I had no idea you that you also sang and played other instruments. You see, in my family we are all musicians and we really enjoy all types of classical and world music. While I was in the kitchen, I heard my sister-in-law Angie, who is a professional Soprano singing “La ci darem la mano” from Mozart’s Don Giovanni; and then I heard a robust baritone voice I stepped out to see who was singing; I was surprised and amazed to see you singing classical opera. Minutes later you played Telemann’s Violin Concerto accompanied by my brother Stephan, I knew I had got not only a highly skilled piper but an incredibly talented classical musician. Your warm and kind nature, your patience and flexibility won the friendship of all who met you that day. You are truly gifted musician. You exceeded every expectation I had!

 Your presentation on Scotch whisky after dinner was educational and entertaining, and your playing at sunset was the highlight of the day enjoyed by all. Thank you for making this the most epic and amazing music party that we have ever had! I will highly recommend you!!!

Dr. Raphael Pazo is a very skilled bagpiper. His professionalism was outstanding. We hired him for our wedding. He communicated with us, asked for our input on dress and songs. Our guests adored him and as I mentioned before his skill level is outstanding. Thank you Raphael! You help make our wedding magical.

Thank you Dr. Pazo for playing at my daughter’s wedding. My son-in-law and his parents (who are from Scotland) were very impressed with your playing and by how beautifully your played the Scottish bagpipes. Thank you for making my daughter’s dreams of having a Scottish piper play at her wedding a reality.

When my dear wife Emily died I was overwhelmed by all the plans and details that needed to be completed.  On the day before her funeral service, my children and I remembered that Emily mentioned that she would like to have a piper play at the services.  After searching on the internet, I contacted Raphael. He answered the phone immediately and help me with some great suggestions of when to play the bagpipes. He paid attention to all the details, including a list of 8 songs to be played at the church service and at the graveside service.  Raphael coordinated his playing and other details with our church Pastor.

On the day of the funeral, Raphael was dressed in a very elegant and handsome uniform and even wore the plaid colors of our family. We asked him for a few additional requests and he gladly accepted them.  Raphael played every song we requested so beautifully – my wife would have been so happy t know we fulfil her request t have a piper. Thank you!

Milton Stewart and Family

I contacted Raphael while looking for a bagpiper for my brother funeral. I went online and searched for bagpipers in the Bay Area. Raphael had great reviews so I sent him a message. Within minutes he reached out to me. Come to find out, he was the same bagpiper my brother had hired to play at his place of work for St. Patrick’s Day. What are the odds??? He showed up early and played so beautifully. All of our guests and family where so pleased with him. If anyone needs an amazing, professional Bagpiper Raphael is your person. Thank you for being part of our difficult day, you made things a little better.

Raphael was wonderful. We hired him for a funeral. He communicated very well before hand and was such a great experience at the ceremony.  I strongly recommend Raphael for any bagpiping you need.

I contacted Dr. Pazo to play the bagpipes at my father’s graveside service. This was a last-minute thought and we weren’t sure if we could event get a piper. Dr. Pazo answered my request within a few minutes of me posting it and called me personally. To our surprise, he is from Lodi and lives in our same neighborhood, just around he corner from us.

Dr. Pazo is a talented and skilled and musician, very professional and courteous, He is also a  genuine and compassionate human being who cares for this clients.  He listened to our requests and played every song we requested.  He communicated with us, the cemetery and also coordinated the order or service with our Pastor. Dr. Pazo’s uniform was very impressive and his music was absolutely beautiful.

Thank You!

Dr. Raphael Pazo was the perfect touch to our wedding. He is the most amazing piper with a full range of music to choose from. He was very accommodating and easy to work with. Everyone at the wedding commented at how perfect he was for our special day.
Chris and Cathy Dennis. 

If you are looking for a top-rated bagpiper who is impressive, elegant, professional, patient, adapts quickly and plays beautifully Raphael is the piper you want.  I contacted Raphael to play the bagpipes to at the graveside service for my father-in-law, Ambrose, who was born in Scotland and served in the British Army as a officer.  Before he died, Ambrose left his family a list of instructions for his memorial service, including a long list of songs that he wanted to be played by a piper.  When Raphael called us back, he expressed his condolences for our loss, listened to our requests and told us that he would be honored to played for us; also, he knew every song of the list.  He also agreed to wear to wear his own full military uniform dress kit for the service.

On the day of the service, Raphael had arrived early at the cemetery, and  welcomed our family and guests with a set of beautiful Scottish songs.  His uniform and the way we wore it was impressive elegant in every respect, and his playing was the most beautiful of any piper we’ve ever heard. Thank you, Raphael!

Thank you sir for playing bagpipes at my wife’s 80th Birthday Celebration.  Your great selection of songs were very well received by my family, friends and guests.  Thank you for keeping everything a total surprise for all.  Everyone had  great time.

We are a family of professional musicians and music teachers.  We are also of Scottish ancestry.  After talking to and listening to about a half dozen pipers we chose Dr. Pazo to play the Scottish Highland Bagpipes at our daughter’s wedding. From the very beginning, we were very impressed with his kind and gentle demeanor, his patience and “no-pressure” approach,  his knowledge of Scottish music, culture and customs, but above all, the beauty and clarity of his playing the bagpipes.  Dr. Pazo answered all our questions and offered some great suggestions including our various options of when he would play the bagpipes.

On the day of the ceremony, Dr. Pazo was dressed with one of the most elegant formal highland attire that  have ever seen. He even wore a kilt in our own Stewart tartan! Dr. Pazo knew every single of the eight songs we requested and played them beautifully and flawlessly.  He even surprised us with an original song he composed for the newly weds and presented the framed sheet music to them as a wedding present.  Who does that? Dr. Pazo does!

Dr. Pazo made our dream for a Scottish wedding come true in every respect.  We highly recommend him as a top rated musician and great person to work with.

Dr Pazo was a dream to work with. He arrived early, took in the whole plan (a Palm Sunday procession) and played beautifully.

Raphael is a very talented man and genuine person. We were fortunate to have him play for the celebration of life. It was a last minute booking and he responded right away. Excellent communicator, very professional and fit right in with our family dynamics. He made the event special. Highly recommend Raphael!
A very caring & passionate person.

I invited Raphael to come and play the bagpipes for our patrons on St. Patrick’s Day.When I called him he answered the phone personally and was very easy to work with. He immediately sent me some photos and videos of him playing at other recent events. Once I saw the videos I was sold. Raphael arrived dressed in a fine kilt and his outfit was a class act. He immediately began playing the songs I requested – a collection of jigs, reels and happy, peppy tunes. Our patrons immediately started clapping their hands, tapping their feet and some even got up and started dancing to the wonderful party music that Raphael played.

Than you Raphael for making our St. Patrick’s Day event one to be remembered. I will recommend you as the most awesome piper!

I was so pleased with Raphael’s performance at my husband’s funeral at Sacramento Valley National Cemetery in Dixon, CA. The songs he played were perfect and he was so professional.
I would give him a 10 out 10.

Dr. Pazo’s performance was entertaining and emotional, the attendees were delighted by the selection of music played; he even played a few requests from the guests attending. At the end of the performance Dr. Pazo’s was courteous enough to take the the time to chat and answer questions. It wasn’t just the music but Dr. Pazo’s skilled, talented, accommodating and very professional. His gracious charming character that made the experience enjoyable for everyone.

Raphael went beyond our expectations!
He was professional, personable, respectful.
He was familiar with LDS hymns & played each one beautifully. My favorites were Oh, My Father, Come Come Ye Saints. He was able to fulfill my brothers last wish, playing Amazing Grace.

Last December, I invited Raphael to play bagpipes to surprise my mom on her birthday.  My mother passed away in March and I asked Raphael to play at her committal service.  In addition to playing Amazing Grace, Raphael also played a variety of songs, including several Catholic hymns and songs and Mexican songs on the Scottish bagpipes.

Dr. Pazo played at the memorial service for my USMC Veteran/Law Enforcement Officer husband. He went above and beyond to accommodate my preference for attire (Blackwatch instead of Stewart) and played a version of Hyfrydol that I sent him on YouTube. Everyone in attendance told me they had chills as he played. The service was in a Lutheran Church, and the Pastor requested only hymns for the service, but other beloved tunes like Danny Boy, The Gael, Highland Cathedral and others were played outside the church. What a blessing to have closure and music my husband would have loved. Dr. Pazo is a very kind man who keeps in regular contact with you as well, to make sure your event is as perfect as it can be. I’ll recommend him to anyone in my circle of family and friends who wants the most professional bagpiper around.

Raphael was very empathetic, professional, flexible, easy to contact and quick to reply back through phone calls or text messages when I had questions and/or requests. My mother’s funeral committal service was elegant with the bagpipes.

What a wonderful man, so kind and caring and flexible and patient. Thank you so much for playing at my husbands celebration of life. His rendition of Amazing Grace was sublime.

We certainly appreciated the bagpipe music that was provided by Raphael Pazo in tribute to our brother John O’Brien. We had a couple of songs that we wanted to have played in honor of our brother and Dr. Pazo went above and beyond to provide a play list of additional songs to include in tribute. We found Raphael to be so very personable, caring, and respectful not only to the family but to our lost loved one. He reached out to those in charge of the services to coordinate his playing. He made what was a difficult time a bit more manageable. We would highly recommend him to anyone in search of a Bagpiper, he is truly a gifted musician. I’m a long-time bagpipe music fan and hearing him play I feel he gave it his all, as if he were playing for his own family member.
In the future, and when the time is right, I would love to hire Raphael to play for an uplifting event such as a block party.

Dr. Raphael Pazo played the highland bagpipes for my father’s memorial service. I was able to choose three songs from his extensive repertoire. Very professional, sensitive and courteous. Would recommend him for any venue that would highlight the bagpipes.

Thank you Raphael

My 90 year old Mother Audrey O. Meyers had requested a few Wishes for her Celebration of Life and Graveside Service. Her Final wish was to have a Bagpiper Play. Our Pastor gave me 3 recommendations for Bagpipers. I contacted all of them. Raphael Pazo is the only one who took the time to give me a personal call. The others just responded with an email quote. Prior to my phone conversation with Raphael I looked at the web links he sent, those video’s are impressive. After speaking with Raphael I felt an immediate and very personal connection. His bagpiping experience is extensive and he played every song we requested. I was most impressed by kind and caring nature, and his sincerity. He arrived on time in Full Authentic Dress. Just listening to Raphael Tune up the Pipes, I knew we were in for a Treat. He played all the songs Mom had on her List and a couple more that were appropriate for her service. If you are looking for a Quality Bagpiper, Raphael Pazo is The Real Deal. Thank you Sir for Fulfilling Mom’s Last Wish.

Sincerely, Don Meyers

Went above and beyond. He played and everybody loved it. My father in law would have been so happy

Could not have been more pleased with Raphael’s dress, performance, and conduct. Even though I presented Raphael with some songs and hymns that he was not familiar with, he learned them with very short notice (2 days) and his playing was superb. Raphael was very easy to work with and adapted without effort to last minute changes in event scheduling and timing.

Client’s satisfaction is our goal. We strive to provide the very best service to all our customers at all times with patience, kindness and understanding, whether it is a live performance at a memorial, wedding, celebration or other event. These are actual reviews received from our clients, in their own words.

An experience with Heart and Soul blended with the music. A touching time that will always be unforgettable.

I am a Scot by birth. For the occasion of our 45th Wedding Anniversary, I was determined to recreate and remember as many elements of our wedding which took place in 1976 in Edinburgh, Scotland .  Among our guests were several lifelong friends who attended our wedding four-and-a-half decades ago, along with a host of new friends and our entire family consisting of my mother and mother-in-law, our four adult children, their spouses, our grandchildren, great-grandchildren and extended family. I donned the same kilt I wore and my wife ordered a beautiful new dress. Of course we had to get a Highland Bagpiper to play at the extensive list of traditional Scottish songs we wanted to be played during the prelude, during the ceremony the postlude and a the reception following the ceremony.

Before inviting Raphael to play at our anniversary, I had  contacted four other pipers who eft me unimpressed.  Raphael was different;  he was cordial and kind, patient and attentive to details. He took the time to listen to my very specific requests and wishes.   Raphael immediately gained my trust and confidence with his friendly demeanor, assertive personality and his extensive knowledge of bagpipe music and Scottish wedding customs which I deem as vastly encyclopaedic. Raphael knew every single one of the thirty-seven songs we requested; moreover, he also composed a new song for us, and presented us with a lovely gift of the music hand-written in parchment, matted and framed, most memorable keepsake for the rest of our lives, and one that we we proudly bequeath for generations to come.  On the day of our ceremony, Raphael came attired in a most elegant manner, wearing an authentic Scottish kilt and kitted to the level of formality of our affair.

I’ve hired many a piper is my life, both in the UK and here in the United States. Raphael is by far, among the very best in the world!

We could not have asked for a better experience with Dr. Pazo.
He was prompt, professional and most importantly, played beautifully for our fathers funeral service. He was very empathetic and kind knowing how upset we were at the loss of our father.
Thank you and best regards to you, Raphael!

Raphael‘s bagpipe music brought the solemn elegance to the ceremony that my friend deserved. I received many comments on how beautiful the service was, especially from Don’s wife. That portion of the ceremony brought tears to the eyes of many, Including me. I can’t thank you enough and look forward to working with you in the future.

Raphael’s talent at playing bagpipes is only surpassed by his warm and friendly personality. I would highly recommend.

Planning a memorial for someone you love is never easy, the music portion of the service was very important to us, we wanted a traditional bagpipe experience with a ceremonial look and sound. Raphael is not only a talented musician but was a thoughtful person throughout the entire process. The moment we inquired he immediately contacted us by phone to discuss what we were looking for. He recommended songs, sent us music samples, and made suggestions about when best to have him play throughout the event. More importantly he listened to our requests and worked them into his process. The day of the service he was on-time and prepared, he was everything we hoped for. His experience and dedication shined through and of curse to hear the music performed live during the service was incredibly moving and memorable for all of us. He was approachable and friendly to those that approached him once the service was over, his music made a wonderful impression on not only on us but our guests. He didn’t mind taking a few extra moments with people, he clearly took a lot of pride in his work. When I first started my search for a bagpipe player I was told there are many players but not many who really capture the traditional look and sound with expertise. Raphael shared with us an authentic and beautiful experience that we’ll always cherish. Personally, as an event photographer in New York, I understand how important it is to find a vendor that is not only good at their craft but also a pleasure to work with and a professional throughout the process. We thank Raphael for his talent, kindness and for making our process a bit more bearable. When my Mom first hear him warming up prior to the start of the service she had chills, it simply filled her with emotion and set our hearts at ease. We thank him and cannot recommend him enough.

First off I’d like to start off by saying On October 4, 2021 I lost the greatest Man That I will have ever known…. My father an Honorary man. Lost in all the chaos and a dark world I didn’t even know where to begin other than…. Knowing I needed to start with my Father’s love For The Sound of the bagpipes and His Wish to have Amazing Grace played at his his funeral. I Found DR. RAPHAEL while searching the Internet Looking for “THE BEST”.

And let me tell you I DID find the Best!!! He IMMEDIATELY Calmed all of my worries…..He “Understood the pain & sorrows my Heart was feeling and that these were my Father’s Final Wishes. He went ABOVE & BEYOND and even was in touch with the Funeral Home Director To go over When to play. He is Most Definitely an ANGEL IN DISGUISE & I will FOREVER be Grateful for Dr. Raphael & The BEAUTIFUL GIFT of PEACE that he left in each and everyone of our Hearts…

God Bless You Sir!!!
POLIT FAMILY

We were not expecting the attention to details that we received from Mr. Pazo. He came all the way from California to play at our event in Florida. From the time we spoke, he made sure to pay attention to all our requests and delivered them all and so much more. We spoke about the venue, the guests, our guest of honor, the event itself… This was a celebration for my husband’s retirement who proudly served in the US Army for 26 years. We were awestruck as Mr. Pazo played Amazing Grace. There was not a dry eye at the ceremony. Not only did he play beautifully, but his attire was impeccable. The experience for us was a once in a lifetime. We would recommend him to anyone who is looking for a solo artist.

Dr. Raphael Pazo went above and beyond. We requested his services for our father’s burial and he was extremely professional in his communication, what to expect on his end, and was already familiar with the policies/protocol for Sacramento Valley National Cemetery. Those who attended were appreciative of being present with his performances. On behalf of the Vind family – we thank you!

We were pleased Dr. Pazo performed for our lovely small gathering of family and friends with his enthusiastic and soulful renditions of the classics. He surpassed our expectations by encouraging our curiosity. He answered every question we tossed over to him about the history of the bagpipe; how its made; its music; and the cultures and people that have embraced its legacy and kept its music alive through the generations. It was a joy to have him join with us to celebrate our special occasion by sharing his expertise, professionalism, enthusiasm, warmth, understanding, and smile. In a world where many of us are experiencing events, situations, or relationships that are difficult to navigate with an open heart, Dr. Pazo’s beautiful bagpipe music, his combined sense of care and wonder, and his stellar performance helped us appreciate and be grateful for the times we are able to be together in peace and love to enjoy the music that keeps us together in the spirit of beauty, hope, faith, and love.

We were so happy with our Birthday Party & having Raphael playing the bagpipes.
Raphael was so professional, entertaining, personable, outgoing & so much more. I felt so blessed to have him join us! Everyone at the party had an amazing day with an amazing bagpiper! Words can’t describe how great our day was with Dr. Raphael Pazo.

I was honored and humbled to have Dr. Raphael Pazo – Highland Bagpiper play at my husband’s Celebration of Life this past weekend. He was so collaborative with both my family and the US Army Honor Guard, and as a veteran himself, worked beautifully with the military as they all honored my husband’s service to our country. Guests were stunned when he walked onto the venue playing Amazing Grace. I have had many, many guests tell me that they will never forget “the bagpiper.” I never write a review unless I feel like I can save someone from a BAD experience, however Dr Pazo is so deserving. His music was absolutely emotional and beautiful and I am grateful.

Thanks for the moving performance yesterday at Dad’s burial. As promised, you were there at the site as we arrived. You were dressed nattily and ready to go. It was the perfect send off for our Dad and we thank you for your professionalism.

Would give 11 stars but only allowed to give 5.

Thanks to Dr. Raphael Pazo, our sister had the most memorable birthday every. He is the most professional musician I have ever dealt with and after the performance he took the time to hang out and answer questions about his craft.

We could not have asked for a better Piper and person for this event.

Our experience with Raphael was perfect, seamless.
He was a great, thorough communicator throughout the process.
I liked that he had performed at this cemetery before and he was able to give us details about the service and the process that we otherwise would not have known.
And his playing was perfection – we asked for 1-2 songs and he did those and then other appropriate songs and at the appropriate times. He welcomed the family with a song when we got to the service area, and then played where appropriate, and then as we were walking out and then a song again at the gravesite.
I cannot say enough about Raphael – he is professional, personal, and incredibly talented!

Our family reunion was topped off with the performance by Raphael we couldn’t have been happier. He even came through on a record breaking heatwave – making such a gallant effort. Our family will remember this weekend for years to come.

There really are no words that can justify or provide enough praise for the individual that is Dr. Raphael Pazo. If he ever gets to read this please let him know we consider him always to be a new found member of our family and is always welcome to the table of the Grant Highlanders

I invited Raphael to come open our first, in-person District Council Meeting for the Kiwanis Clubs of Silicon Valley after a year of Covid Zoom Meetings. He showed up early, opened our meeting with Amazing Grace, later gave us a great presentation on the history of Bagpipes (who knew Bagpipes were 1,000’s of years old, whose origin started in Mesopotamia) and then played several songs.

Raphael was an immense joy to work with and listen to. He’s humble, inspirational, his equipment and uniform are on point….highly highly recommend.

We hired Dr. Raphael Pazo for our Burns Supper, and he was exceptional! He helped make our party unforgettable. He played the pipes so beautifully. He came prepared with songs, and took requests from guests too. And he is so knowledgeable – he provided interesting facts for some of the songs he played for us. He was so easy to work with and so flexible. We highly recommend him! Thank you Dr. Raphael Pazo for sharing your talent with us for the evening!!

Dr. Raphael Pazo Jr. came to perform at my father’s funeral service at Sacramento Valley Veterans Memorial yesterday, November 25. His performance was perfect! His knowledge of the ceremonies held there was a huge relief for me knowing that it would be done to perfection. He offered suggestions and any songs I requested. He is a professional! I can’t thank him enough for the beautiful job he did for us!
Leslie M

I’m a funeral director in Sacramento and I had asked Dr. Pazo to play for a memorial service for one of the families I was serving and the music was wonderful ! The family was well pleased and being a fan of bagpipes and Celtic music in general myself, I was quite impressed ! If you need a piper, I highly recommend Dr. Raphael Pazo!

Dr. Raphael’s performance was everything I hoped it would be. It was set up to be the very special surprise of my Mother’s memorial and he did not disappoint.

Dr. Pazo’ wonderful and moving music added beauty and serenity – and joy to my brother’s funeral Mass. my family still comments on the happiness the bagpipes brought to all is . Thank you, Doctor.

Sincerely,

Patrick O’Reilly

Dr. Raphael Pazo performed at the April 2019 celebration of life of a relative. He was magnificent, both in his musical performance and in his appearance in full Scottish attire. He added a whole additional level to make the event even more memorable and special. Also, if you are lucky enough to get an opportunity to converse with him, he is a truly charming and remarkable person with an amazing life story. I am pleased to give him my strongest possible recommendation.

My father always loved the Highland Bagpipes, and with the help of Raphael, we were able to send him off at his Memorial Service in a way that he would have deeply appreciated. Services such as these are emotional and often impromptu, and Raphael rolled with it seamlessly. He had a playlist that we went over beforehand, but several times we asked him to play something without any warning. He did that extremely well. He’s also a very engaging individual in his own right – I found myself chatting with him for the sheer enjoyment of it. I’d recommend him without reservation – a great piper and a very decent person in all respects!

As Stage Director for Pacific Opera Theatre at University of The Pacific,  I conducted an exhaustive search and scouted for an exceptionally qualified and skilled piper to play the Scottish Great Highland Bagpipes at our production of Lerner’s and Loewe’s BRIGADOON.  I chose Dr. Pazo over other candidates to play the role of Highland Bagpiper not only for his skills as a piper, but also for his professionalism and friendly demeanor.

This particular production featured the very best talent from Pacific Opera Theatre and the University Symphony Orchestra: We have pulled all the stops and assembled a team of the top actors, singers, accompanists, dancers, choreographers, scenic designers, costume designers, make-up artists, stage managers, sound engineers and lighting designers to work under the supervision and tutelage of Musical Coach Professor Burr Cochran Phillips and Maestro Nicolas Waldvogel, Conductor of the University Symphony Orchestra. Dr. Pazo made himself available for every rehearsal. He was always punctual and ready to work; he was very patient and played his role beyond all expectations. He also arranged and performed most of the music the played on stage, and collaborated with the choreography team by being available for extra practices and recording practice tracks for the dancers.

Dr. Pazo turned out to be every I needed and wanted for the role of piper, and much more: prompt, punctual, professional, friendy, skilled musician, humble and a real team player.

Dr. Pazo performed at our father’s funeral. He was amazing! So many of our friends and family commented that it was the most beautiful celebration of life they had ever attended. The music was superb as was Dr. Pazo’s professionalism. We were incredibly touched by his care and concern. He attended our father’s reception and took the time to answer the many questions of our guests. He then met us several days later to play for the committal service. We remarked later that we were sure those visiting the cemetery also enjoyed the lilting tones as they drifted across. He made beautiful what was a very difficult time.

Raphael (as he asked to call him) not only beautifully piped my father in and out of the church, but also came to the National Cemetery in Dixon and piped for the internment with military honors. He was not only professional and courteous as would be expected, but compassionate and truly interested in his history and life. He also spent time with many family member giving condolences.

Dr. Raphael Pazo Jr. was extremely professional in his performance. He was willing to accommodate some last minute changes in the musical arrangements and willingly played an additional two hymns during our service. Dr. Raphael Pazo Jr. was cordial and friendly with the guests, was dignified in his performance, and was very distinguished in appearance at the service. I would highly recommend his services to any who need an accomplished and highly skilled bagpiper.

On behalf of the Roman Family, Frances (wife), children (spouses), grandchildren (spouses) and great-grandchildren. There are no words that express the deepest honor Dr. Raphael Pazo Jr. gave to the final committal of Frank J. Roman.
Frank always wanted bagpipes at his passing with the traditional military honors. His final moments before being laid to rest in Stockton California, were exactly what he wished.
Our mother, expresses the beauty that the ceremony had with tears that bream her eyes of pride and love.
Thank you Dr. Pazo Jr., for giving the Roman family the memories of such soulful music possible, from the Scottish Great Highland Bagpipes.
With much honor and pride to have Dr. Raphael Pazo Jr. as part of our final memories of Frank J. Roman’s time on earth.
Thank you Dr. Rafael Pazo Jr, with Scottish Great Highland Bagpipes, American Legion Carl Ross Post 16, Henry Adame Homer Guard, Patriot Guard Riders, assistant State Captain in California, John Silva, and Pipper, William “Steve” Matthew
The Roman Family

Dr. Raphael Pazo played the Scottish bagpipes for my husband’s memorial service. He played in the lobby of our church as guests were arriving. Then he opened the service with “Danny Boy”. My husband Danny’s favorite. He stayed for the entire service and closed us out with Amazing Grace. Beautiful, fitting tribute to my beloved. Raphael visited with guests after the service and was so warm and personable it seemed as if he were an old family friend. I highly recommend him for anyone for anything!

The professionalism we have received from Dr. Pazo is above and beyond. After submitting our request. I received a call within the first 5 minutes. He sent over la link for us to hear him play as well as pictures. After finding out what we actually needed he was gracious enough to donate his services. We here at the Stockton Fire Department can not thank him enough.

From the Court of Mary, Queen of Scots

Dr. Pazo was the Royal Piper for our Winter’s Feast. He was contracted to play prior to the Queen’s arrival, and to escort her to the throne with festive ambiance. In this we were well pleased. Dr. Pazo not only performed for this element, but also was part of our Wassail Parade. I merely told him our intent, and he instantly came up with a suitable tune. He again surpassed my expectations with playing an original funeral dirge for the death of a youth when one of our actors “ate” poisonous food sent from Queen Elizabeth I. Dr Pazo continued well past his contracted time to perform whenever it suited the Queen or the Master of Revels to have additional music. I would recommend Dr. Pazo for your bagpipe needs.

Sincerely,

Lord Wallace

Royal Secretary

Royal Scots Renaissance Guild

Thirty of my family members were gathered at my sister’s house for mine and our niece’s birthday – we were all in the backyard when from the distance we could hear a bagpipe playing , eventually the music was coming up her driveway and into the backyard – my husband hired Pazo to play his bagpipes for my birthday – what a great and memorable day and a start of our friendship! He plays the bagpipes with all his heart and we still talk about that day and how special he made it with his music and talent – he was patient and gracious when we took several pictures with him surrounded by family members . He will make your event one you won’t forget !