EST. 1960 • MELBOURNE, VICTORIA
Hire a Pipe Band or Piper in Melbourne
For more than 65 years, the Rats of Tobruk Memorial Pipes and Drums has carried the proud tradition of Scottish music across Melbourne's most memorable moments. When you hire us as a pipe band or solo piper, you're not just booking a performance – you're welcoming decades of skill, passion, and cultural heritage into your event.
Alongside performing, we also share our expertise by teaching bagpipes and pipe band drumming, offering lessons to anyone who wants to learn and keep this tradition alive.
Whether it's a wedding, a milestone celebration, or a corporate gathering, our pipe band or a lone piper can bring the perfect blend of professionalism and authenticity to ensure your occasion is unforgettable.
Need Bagpipes for a Wedding, Celebration or Lesson? We've Got You Covered
Whether you want to hire a piper in Melbourne or learn the art of playing the great Highland Bagpipe yourself, our 65 years of tradition ensures you're always in expert hands.
Weddings
There's nothing quite like the sound of bagpipes to mark life's most important moments. Our wedding bagpipers can perform as the bride walks down the aisle, play during key moments of the ceremony, or entertain guests at the reception. The pipes bring a sense of tradition and emotion that creates memories your guests will talk about for years.
Funerals & Memorials
A bagpiper's sound has a unique way of honouring loved ones with dignity and respect. Our players can provide heartfelt music at funerals and memorials, helping families and friends say goodbye in a meaningful and moving way.
Corporate Launches
Looking for a bold and memorable way to make an impression? Hiring a piper or a mini band for your corporate launch adds impact and atmosphere that will leave your guests talking long after the event. Our experienced performers know how to command attention without overwhelming the moment.
Community Events
From parades to cultural festivals, the Rats of Tobruk Memorial Pipes and Drums has been part of community life for decades. Our bagpipers and drummers can perform as a solo act or full or mini band, bringing energy and authenticity that elevates any local gathering.
OUR HISTORY
About Rats of Tobruk
Top-rated Bagpipers in Melbourne
The Rats of Tobruk Memorial Pipes and Drums was formed in 1960 as a 'Living Memorial' to the Military Units involved in the Siege of Tobruk of WWII, April to December 1941.
The Band has performed seven times at the internationally acclaimed Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo, in 1988, 1994, 1997, 2001, 2005, 2008 and 2012, and has had the honour to field a number of Lone Pipers for the Tattoo, including Bruce Macfarlane and Lois Cairns.
In 2007 the Band performed at the inaugural Russian Kremlin Zoria on Red Square, Moscow.
In 2009 the Band was invited to appear at the Libyan Military Music Festival. At the conclusion of this tour in September 2009 the Band travelled to Tobruk to hold a Memorial Service at the Tobruk War Cemetery.
The Band performed at the Australia-hosted Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo in 2010, held at Sydney Football Stadium, in 2016 in Melbourne at Etihad Stadium and in 2019 at ANZ Stadium at Sydney Olympic Park in NSW.
In 2010, 2014, and 2018 the Band performed at the Basel International Military Tattoo in Switzerland.
In 2016 the Band performed in Shanghai, China as part of the Shanghai Tourism Festival.
65+
Years Active
Why Choose Us?
Years of Experience
Trusted since 1960, with decades of tradition and excellence in Scottish music.
Professional pipers
Skilled players for weddings, funerals, corporate events, and community celebrations.
Versatility
From solo pipers to full pipe bands, we tailor our performance to suit your event.
Teaching & Training
Learn bagpipes and pipe band drumming from experienced tutors, in Melbourne, Victoria.
Authentic Performances
Passionate musicians who create unforgettable atmospheres with every note.
Reliable & Respected
Known across Melbourne for professionalism, dignity, and cultural authenticity.
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Learn Bagpipe or Drumming Lessons in Melbourne
Learning the bagpipes has never been more accessible. With over 65 years of tradition behind us, the Rats of Tobruk Memorial Pipes and Drums offers lessons for all ages and skill levels. Our Melbourne-based tutors provide hands-on guidance for students.
Whether you're picking up the chanter for the first time or building on years of experience, our structured lessons cover everything from proper technique and breath control to mastering full tunes. For those interested in the rhythm section, we also offer pipe band drumming lessons that bring energy and precision to your playing.
Every lesson is designed to be engaging, supportive, and tailored to your pace, helping you keep this proud musical tradition alive while enjoying the process of learning.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to hire a bagpiper in Melbourne?
We offer very reasonable rates that vary depending on your requirements.
Can I hire a bagpiper online for a virtual event?
Yes, we can provide pipers and/or drummers to suit your requirements.
Do you provide bagpipe players for weddings?
Yes, our wedding bagpipers can perform as the bride walks down the aisle, play during key moments of the ceremony, or entertain guests at the reception. The pipes bring a sense of tradition and emotion that creates memories your guests will talk about for years.
Can beginners learn bagpipes online?
We think it is beneficial if at least the first few sessions are carried out face to face. These can be supplemented by online sessions.
How much do you pay a bagpiper for a funeral?
We offer very reasonable rates that vary depending on your requirements.
Can bagpipes be self-taught?
There is increasing capacity for this with online programs, however, we recommend face to face learning as being quicker and far more efficient.
How fast to learn bagpipes?
This depends on the age of the pupil (young people will generally learn much faster than older people) and how much time they devote to practice.
How far in advance should I book a bagpiper?
We would like one to two weeks notice, but can accommodate shorter times if necessary.
How experienced are your Pipers?
With more than 65 years of history, the Rats of Tobruk Memorial Pipes and Drums is made up of seasoned players who perform at major events and teach students at all levels.
Can I hire a piper for funerals and memorial services?
Yes, our pipers are often requested for funerals and memorials, where the bagpipes add dignity and respect to honour loved ones.