Erik Rigler

Eric Rigler’s lifelong connection to the bagpipes began when he was just 18 months old, sitting on his mother’s lap at a parade. Mesmerized by the sound of the pipe and drum band passing by, his fascination only deepened as he explored his father’s eclectic record collection, which included a few treasured bagpipe albums. By the time Eric was seven, there was no question what he wanted for Christmas—a set of bagpipes. What began as a childhood curiosity blossomed into an extraordinary career spanning more than three decades, marked by iconic performances in film, television, and popular music. Throughout his journey, Eric has remained deeply committed to honoring and preserving the rich traditions of Irish and Scottish bagpiping. His evocative playing can be heard in unforgettable scores for films like Braveheart and Titanic, as well as on Phil Collins’ soulful recording of “True Colors.” Collaborating with legendary composer James Horner became both a professional highlight and a cherished friendship. Yet, perhaps Eric’s most meaningful contribution is his role as a mentor, sharing his passion and knowledge with the next generation of musicians. “Moving these styles and traditions forward is an honor for me,” he reflects—a sentiment as enduring as the timeless sound of his bagpipes.