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ACCOLADES

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Here is what our customers are saying...

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"Dear Raphael,
 
Your playing truly added the special touch the tribute to our Dear Steve.  We could not express how much we appreciate your time and effort coming all the way to Georgetown.  Thank you so much for joining our family and the Georgetown Fire Department to celebrate Steve's life.  Your kindness and patience during such a difficult time has meant so much to our family."
 
 
Edna Kessler and Family
 
"Dear Dr. Pazo,
 
On behalf of our entire family, please accept our thanks for the very special way you honored our Beloved Father, John.  Your performance with the U.S. Marine Corps and the Marine Corps League Honor Guard was like none we ever seen before.  Hearing you play the music you composed in honor of our Dad was an experience that we will always remember, for the rest of our lives.  How beautiful and elegant!   
 
The Serpa Family

 

 

 

 

 

"Hello  Dr. Pazo,

 

First of all, let me commend you on a most impressive and impeccable rendition of “Amazing Grace” at the Patriots' Day Salute in the City of Lathrop by members of the Lathrop Police Department and the Manteca Fire Department.

 

I have heard several bagpipers play this glorious song in the past, but never quite as crisp, clean and moving as yours.

Everyone in the crowd, to include myself, was touched by your outstanding performance. You truly captivated the crowd!  As for your fellow officers and Firemen, they could not stop raving about you at the conclusion of the event!


I can honestly say, I believe that it was your performance that convinced the local high school and both teams to host this ceremony again.

 

Once again, thank you so very much for all that you offered our program and for helping us to truly celebrate the spirit

of 9/11."

 

Omar Khweiss

City of Latrop 9/11 Patriots Day Salute organizer

a Benefit Basketball Tournament between

Latrop Police Department and Manteca Fire Department

 
"My Esteemed Friend Dr. Raphael Pazo,
 
Thank you for your years of dedication and your service to the California Peace Officers' Association (CPOA).  For many years now you have become an integral part of this tradition we have during Peace Officers' Memorial Week in May of every year, were we honor those officers who made the "ultimate sacrefice" defending the rigths and safety of other citizens.  Your performance is always a source of solace, consolation, honor and pride to the families of those who have begun their "eternal watch."
 
 
Edmund J. "Jerry" Brown,
Governor of the State of California
and formerCalifornia State Attorney General
 
 
 
"Dear Dr. Pazo,
 
Thank you  for your performance at the California Peace Officers' Memorial Ceremony at the California State Capitol Grounds. I appreciate your participation, particularly your poise, reverence, dignity and respect you exhibit when honoring those Peace Officers who made the ultimate sacrifice and gave their lives in the line-of-duty for our safety.  I was especially moved for your original composition 'or the ocassion, 'Lament for the Fallen Heroes'."
 
California (Former) Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger
 
 
"When we experienced the premature and tragic loss of our Son, nothing at the time seemed logical. After speaking to you about our intentions to have a committal service in the ancient tradition of our family back in Scotland, you were so knowledgeable and undertanding ou our requests that everything turned into apositive way to celebrate during his life, intead of mourning his loss. Your special musical composition and giving us the hand-written parchment not only made the service incredibly memorable, but also a service that offer so much solace and comfort to all his family and friends."
 
Rupert Cornwall
 
 
"Our school's faculty and students decided to hire your group as part of our "Music from Around the World" program. The event was so successful that we invited every single class to attend the musical educational presentation, which prompted many of them to make drawings, send letters and aroused their interest in music."
 
Mrs. Cowan, Music Teacher
 
 
"When we first contacted you we had no knowledge that you had so much in common with our Father. Being a Worshipful Past Master of a Masonic Lodge, Masonic District Inspector, Past Post Commander of Veterans of Foreing Wars, a former Peace Officer, a retired funeral Director, a U.S. Army Veteran and an active member of so many organizations to which oue Father also belonged, allowed you to seamlessly work with them to enhance the Celebration of Life Service to a level that we could have never imagined! All those in anttendance will remember this service for a very long time. A remarkable tribute for my Father. Thank you, Dr. Pazo."
 
Derrren Schmidt
 
 
"Dear Erik, We wish to convey to you our heat felt thanks for participating in our Flag Ceremony on Such short notice.  You played a vital role and added your own special magic to make it something truly memorable in the Gold Country legacy. We are grateful for your time,generosity and for sharing this moment with us."
 
The Administration and Staff of Gold Country Health Center
 
 
 
"Dear Worshipful Raphael Pazo,
 
Thank you so very much for playing "Amazing Grace' and the ther joyful songs at Destanee A. Little's Celebration of Life Service at the Stockton Scottish Rite Center.  We know ( and you know) how much enjoyed the  "happy" music of the bagpipes whem she visited your home, especially on the Welsh Pipes.  She loved  the songs "Loch Lomond", "The Welsh Air", "The Rose of Alendale" and  "Auld Lang Syne" by the Scottis Poet and Mason, Robert Burns.  We are very grateful that you able play for her service."
 
 
Sincerely,
Members Stockton Chapter, Order of DeMolay and
Stockton Bethel # 83 International Order of Job's Daughters
 

"Dear Dr. Pazo, 

Your performance at our daughter's wedding was a 'dream come true.'  Your flawless performance of "Highland Cathedral" and your inpecable dress in Full Regimental Uniform was better than anyone could have ever dreamed for.  We will highly recommend you as a performer to everyone we know.  Thank you!"

 
The MacLeod Family
 
 
 
 
"Dear Rabbi Dr. Pazo, 
 
Mere words are insufficient to express our gratitude to you for officating the Graveside Commital Service and the playing the that his "fellow Chaplain and Dear Friend, the Rabbi"  be there 'front-and-center' at his Committal Service and offer the Final Mourner's Benediction and Blessing in the 'Holy Tongues" (Hebrew and Aramaic) and play the Scottish Bagpipes.  He personally wrote these instructions many years ago. 
Your performance was musically flawless and emotionally moving to all present. Also, your willingness to co-officiate with our Pastor and grant our Father's wishes will forever be remembered fondly.  We thank you from the bottom of our hearts."
 
The Family of Rev. Dr. Wayne Kildall
Lieutenant Colonel, U.S. Army Chanplaincy Corps (Ret.)
 
 
"Dear Dr. Pazo, 
 
Your plaing of 'Amazig Grace', "Mist Covered Mountains', and 'Flowers of the Forest' in the Scottish Bagipes at our Father's Celebration of Life Service met and surpassed every expectation we had the music you help us select.  We can simply say that it was marvellous event thanks to the enhancement you offered by your superb musical performance."
 
The Alastair Dunn Family
 
 
"Excellent work.  Your performance is greatly appreciated by all of us , the Law Enforcement community and the families and the Citizens of the Great State of California."
 
Cruz Bustamante
Former Lieutenant Governor of California
 
"Dear Dr. Pazo and Mr. Charette,
 
On behalf of the City County of the City of Lathrop, we express our gratitude to both of you for your participation in the Dedication Ceremony of Lathrops Veteran's Memorial.  You musical selections and the manner of your performance was indeed the high point of the ceremony."
 
Sincerely,
City Council Members, City of Lathrop, CA
 
 
 
"Dear Dr. Pazo and Mr. Charette,  The Member of the United States Marine Corp Leage are grateful for the performance of your beautiful music on the Bagpipe at the Dedication Ceremony of the Lathrop Veterans' Memorial.  Your music was marterfully played and the selections you chose were just perfect for the event."
 
Sincerely,
Mr. Joseph "Joe" Serna, United Stated Marine Corps Leage
 
 
 
"Dear Dr. Pazo, your performance at the 2006 ANZAC (Australian-New Zealand Remembrance Day) at Grace Cathedral in San Francisco was absolutely superb." 
 
Consul General of New Zealand
 
 
"Hi Raphael,
 
Thank you so much for playing at our Father's Celebration of Life at the Scottish Rite Center in Stockton.  The musical selections you performed, and your kind words are testimonial of the Friendship and Brotherhood you shared as Masons.  We sincerely appreciate it."
 
The Family of Roger Taylor
 
 
 
"Raphael,
 
Your performance was a great tribute to all of our Veterans. Your bagpipes again brought down the house. There was not a dry eye when you finished your walk (retreat "Lochaber No More").  Thanks again."
 
 
Captain Robert Bechill, U.S. Navy Reserve
Lodi Veterans' Day Tribute organizer
 

"Delightful and elegant."

Douglass Iain Wallace
 
 
 
"Masterfully played. Bravo!",
 
 
"Network", Official Newsletter of the
California Peace Officers Association
on the occassion of the opening ceremonies
of the CPOA Conference in South Lake Tahoe, California
 
 
 
"Absolutely Wonderful!"
 
David R. Doan
2004-2005 Grand Master of Masons in California
on the occassion of his official visit to
San Francisco Scottish Rite Bodies in October 2004
 
 
"Thank you Worshipful Brother Pazo for your performance at the opening public ceremonies of our Grand Lodge."
 
 
Howard D. Kirkpatrick
Past Grand Master of Masons in California (2003-2004)
 
 
"Raphael,
 
Thank you for your magnificent performance.  We are honored."
 
D.O. "Spike" Helmick
Former California Highway Patrol Commissioner
President, California Peace Officers Association 2003-2004
 
 
"We appreciate your participation with our Lodi PARTNERS at the opening ceremonies of the Law Enforcement Volunteers of California (LEVOC)conference."
 
 
E.W. "Bud" Shropshire(R.I.P.)
Lodi Police Department PARTNERS Honor Guard
 
 
"Raphael,
 
Your performance at the Queen's Club British Mess on Tribal Rights Night was magnificent."
 
Dr. Brian James
Australian Imperial Army, WWII
The Queens Club
 
 
 
"Dear Raphael,
 
We are so proud to have you as official piper of our San Francisco Scottish Rite.  We appreciate your talents and your love of Freemasonry".
 
 
Judge Donald Constine
Personal Representative of the 
Sovereign Grand Inspector General in  the State of California 
of San Francisco Ancient and Accepted Scottish Rite Bodies
 
 
"Raphael,
 
We really enjoy having you as a member of our Honor Guard.  We enjoy working with you".  You embody the true 'Sprit de Corps' that has made our unit one of the best Veterans' organizations Honor Guard."
 
Herman Lehr, Honor Guard Commander (R.I.P.)
Ed Stewart American Legion Post 803, Stockton, CA
United States Marine Corps
 
 
 
"Dear Dr. Pazo,
 
Thank you so much for making our son's wedding one that our friends and family will forever remember.  Your knowledge of Scottish traditions and customs made everything so special for all".
 
Earl McClure
 
 
"Dear Raphael,
 
Your performance at our daugther's wedding was absolutely magnificent.  Your rendition of 'Highland Cathedral' and your commissioned original composition made us feel so proud of our Scottish heritage.  Thank you for making her wedding so memorable and special."
 
 
Mr. and Mrs. S. MacClinton
 
 
 
"Dear Raphael,
 
I will hold in my heart the indellible memory of your sunset bagpipe concert.  It was a beautiful end to a difficult day.  You will always have a special place in my heart and for years to come we will talk about Jeff’s beautiful memorial service and the bagpipe concert."
 
Holly Richardson

"Dear Raphael,

I must admit that I was in total awe at the fact the you are a professional musician, capable of masterfully singing with an angelical beautiful and full Baritone voice, as well as playing the violing and the Scottish Highland Bagpipes.

When I heard you singing "Panis Angelicus' in Latin it indoubtabily felt like a gift from God.  You sang with direct eye-to eye contact, striking me like  a lighting bolt right to my heart, reaching my soul.   Your musical talents are amazing!  Not only can you sing beautifully, but in a choice of languages.  I will always remember your exceptional talents."

Anne Moorefield 

 

"Thank you for playing a my daughter's wedding.  You are awesome.  We will highly recommend you to everyone we know."

Bonnie Rasmussen

 

"Thank you so much for the splendid job you all did at our Renewal of Vows Ceremony!   It surpassed all of our expectations!  Your music selections were just fabulous and your clothes were a collection of some of the most beautiful tartans I have ever seen!  Many of our guest also commented about how cool everyone in your group looked as to have you!(even when the temperatute was 115 ° F".


Karen Munro

"Thank you so much for singing and playing the violin and Scottish bagpipes at our father's funeral service. We were all moved by the way your music took us back to our beloved Scotland.  Your impecable dress and appearance, your kindness and patience, and  your musical talent are exceptional!"   
 
R. Sanders, M.D. 
 
 
"I was so thrilled with your performance at our daughter's wedding.  Talk about the power of music!   You will always be my first call."  
 
Karen Snodgrass
 
 
 
"I have heard many bagpipers, but it was your exceptionally flawless interpretation of 'Highland Wedding' at our niece's wedding which made it a most memorable one.  Thank you!"
 
 
Mr. & Mrs. K. MacKinnon
 
 
 
"Dear Dr. Pazo,
 
We are so glad that we invited you to perform at my father's wedding ceremony.  Your playing was so impressive that it exceeded every expectation we had.  We appreciate the fact that you took the time to listen to our requests,  your assitance with protocol, and you suggestions on Highland dress etiquete."
 
 
Eileen MacPhearson
 
 
 
"Raphael,
 
Thank you for your kindness, patience and sympathy, and for the beautiful bagpiping at my husband's service  The entire family sincerely appreciates it."
 
 
 
Mrs. B. L. Miller
 
 
 
"Raphael,
 
Your performance at the 'Every Fifteen Minutes'* program added a powerful effect which touched those in attendance.  I appreciate your dedication and participatio n in this type of worthy program."
 
 
 
Jerry Adams, Chief of Police, Lodi Police Department
Officer Jason Bartlett, California Highway Patrol
* "Every Fifteen Minutes" is a "Don't Drink and Drive' TWO-DAY awareness presentation for High Scholl Juniors and Seniors presented to all High Schools
 
 
 
"Raphael,
 
Just a note to let you know how much you meant to our Memorial Service and to the Honor Guard.  Thank you so much for participating in the service.  The bagpipes add so much and we sure do enjoy your playing."
 
 
Senior Chaplain Bill Sherrill (retired)
Lodi Police Department

Do you have any comments? Please send us an e-mail at:

info@californiabagpiper.com

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Letters from Children
 
There is no greater compliment to any artist than the words of satisfied customers.  Educational presentations are one of the most rewarding ways to share our music, our art.   Below is a collection of letters and drawings, all written by young children a few days after an educational presentation at their school. Children just say what's on their mind.  Their reviews are "sometimes blunt, but always sincere".
 
 They will charm your heart with glee and joy!
 
NOTE:  ***Click on the picture to launch a larger version of the letter.***

Child Letter 1
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Following a presentation at their Elementary School

Child Letter 2
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Following a presentation at their Elementary School

Child Letter 3
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Following a presentation at their Elementary School

Child Letter 4
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Following a presentation at their Elementary School

Child Letter 5
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Following a presentation at their Elementary School

Child Letter 6
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Following a presentation at their Elementary School

Child Letter 7
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Following a presentation at their Elementary School

Child Letter 8
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Following a presentation at their Elementary School

Child Letter 9
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Following a presentation at their Elementary School

Child Letter 10
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Following a presentation at their Elementary School

Child Letter 11
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Following a presentation at their Elementary School

Child Letter 12
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Following a presentation at their Elementary School

Child Letter 13
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Child Letter 14
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Following a presentation at their Elementary School

Child Letter 15
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Following a presentation at their Elementary School

Child Lettter 16
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Following a presentation at their Elementary School

Child Letter 17
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Following a presentation at their Elementary School

Child Letter 18
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Following a presentation at their Elementary School

Child Letter 19
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Following a presentation at their Elementary School

Child Letter 20
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Following a presentation at their Elementary School


Music of Elegance and Distinction

by Dr. Raphael Pazo, Highland Bagpiper 

californiabagpiper.com


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