Carrbridge Historic 1717 Packhorse Bridge
90 Minutes
Masterclass duration
Max 10 Guests
Intimate group size
All Gear Provided
Chanters & pipes included
No Experience
100% Beginner friendly
Free Parking
At Carrbridge Hotel
Free Cancel
Up to 24h prior
What You'll Do
A step-by-step masterclass curated by Scotland's award-winning Highland bagpiper.
1Discover the life of a bagpiper
Spud kicks off with an entertaining and personal introduction to professional piping in Scotland. He traces his 25+ year piping career since 1999, reveals behind-the-scenes stories from piping at world-famous castle weddings (including Madonna's wedding at Skibo Castle), and explains where bagpipes fit into Highland heritage today.
2Deconstruct the instrument
Watch the Great Highland Bagpipe get disassembled piece by piece right before your eyes! Spud gives you a hands-on primer on each component: the airtight pipe bag, blowpipe non-return valve, bass & tenor drones, chanter, and the delicate cane reeds that give the bagpipes their unmistakable sound.
3Take in a live demonstration
See and hear Spud demonstrate the nuance across all nine notes of the traditional Scottish Mixolydian scale. He showcases the difference between acoustic and electronic bagpipes, demonstrates lightning-fast grace notes and birls, and performs an up-close musical demonstration.
4Practice finger placement
Now it is your turn! Every guest is handed an individual, sanitized Scottish practice chanter—the traditional woodwind used by pipers for rehearsals. Spud patiently guides your fingers over the tone holes, teaching you the scale and playing simple Scottish tunes together as a group.
5Refine your bag control
Step up to the real full bagpipes! Pick up an inflated bag and practice proper arm pressure, blowing technique, and how to coordinate breath control with the arm squeeze to sustain steady drone harmony without losing sound.
6Snap pictures with the bagpipes
Memorialize your masterclass by stepping outside to the historic 1717 Carrbridge Packhorse Bridge—the oldest stone bridge in the Scottish Highlands! Pose for unforgettable photos and videos holding the Great Highland Bagpipes alongside Spud in full Highland dress.
Hosted by Callum Fraser (@spudthepiper)
Professional Scottish Bagpiper since 1999 • Aviemore, Highlands
“Hi there, I'm Callum Fraser, aka Spud the Piper, a Scottish Highland bagpiper based in Aviemore. I've been playing the pipes professionally since 1999, winning awards on the Scottish wedding circuit and soundtracking ceremonies weekly—sometimes for famous people like Madonna. I perform in traditional Highland dress, carrying forward an ancient musical tradition that has shaped my entire life.”
Where We'll Meet: Carrbridge Hotel
Address: Carrbridge Hotel, Carrbridge, Highland Council, PH23 3AB.
The experience is hosted in the hotel's private lounge and immediately outside on the banks of the River Dulnain at the famous 1717 Packhorse Bridge.
Travel & Directions
- • By Car: 10 mins north of Aviemore via the A9; 30 mins south of Inverness. Free parking in the hotel car park.
- • By Train: Carrbridge Railway Station is a 5-minute walk directly to the hotel entrance.
- • Tour Coaches & Groups: Dedicated coach parking available at the hotel.
Things to Know Before You Go
Guest Requirements
Suitable for guests aged 9 and over. Under 18s must be accompanied by an adult.
What to Wear
Casual clothing. Bring a warm Scottish jacket or layer for the outdoor photo shoot by the stone bridge.
Cancellation Policy
Full refund if cancelled up to 24 hours prior to your scheduled masterclass start time.
Private Group Bookings
Private masterclasses for tour groups, family reunions, and corporate events available on request.
Bringing a Coach Tour or Private Party?
Spud frequently hosts private Highland workshops for tour groups, wedding parties, and corporate retreats across Scotland.
Enquire about private group pricing →