Stewart Hobson is an experienced Highland bagpiper with many years of involvement in pipe bands and solo performance. He served as Pipe Major of the Auckland Police Pipe Band from 2015 to 2023, leading one of New Zealand’s well-known pipe bands and maintaining its strong tradition of musical performance and public service.

In addition to his pipe band leadership, Stewart regularly performs as a solo piper at a wide variety of occasions. He is frequently engaged to play at weddings, funerals, birthday celebrations, commemorative services, and other special events where the distinctive sound of the Great Highland Bagpipe adds dignity, ceremony, and atmosphere.

Stewart has been closely involved with ANZAC commemorations for many years. The Auckland Police Pipe Band has taken part in the combined North Shore RSA dawn parade and service since 1995, and during his tenure as Pipe Major, Stewart had the honour of performing the Lament at ANZAC services—one of the most significant musical tributes of remembrance.

He has developed a substantial repertoire suitable for many different occasions, including jigs, hornpipes, slow marches, quick marches, reels, and strathspeys. This allows him to tailor the music to suit the tone and purpose of each event, from solemn ceremonial pieces to lively traditional tunes.

Stewart is also happy to learn particular tunes requested by clients, provided they can be played on the Great Highland Bagpipe, helping to make each performance personal and meaningful.

Professional, experienced, and respectful of the importance of each occasion, Stewart takes pride in helping create memorable moments through the stirring sound and rich tradition of the Highland bagpipes.

Ideal for: wedding, private function, ceremony, 100th birthday celebration, graduation event, funeral, memorial event, commemorative event