35mm Film | Bagpipers From The Past
Amazing how young and innocent this group of struggling musicians looked almost 40 years ago! It started when Harry Farrar performed a wedding gig. And, this popular venue was famous for buffets and corporate events. Also, known as the Odyssey in Granada Hills. Ironically, there is another wedding is on the books for Bagpiper Harry this summer 2025.
The view is famous and one of the best destinations for weddings in Southern California. At the time of the event, the group knew a fun picture was in order. Predicably, Harry brought out an old camera by today’s standards. Notably, a classic Topcon Super D SLR with T-Max 100 BW film. The resolution of the image is adjusted, with over all these years. However, the image still remains and tells the story of a group of fine musicians who were just starting. And, as it turns out, the journey continues. All five members remain active. The history of bagpipes and drums is not over. (RIP Fr. Kevin, Oct 2024)
Youthful Talent Then | Seasoned Bagpipe Entertainers Now
Our most senior member was Catholic Carmelite Priest Fr. Kevin McBrien. He was the big cheeze at St. Janes Catholic Church at 13000 Victory Blvd at the time.
Since this picture and the wedding at the Odyssey that day, many thousands of events are behind. And, well executed by Harry Farrar and Scottish Pipes & Drums. Also, known now as Bagpipeplayers.com
The picture back then has been used on countless promotional materials since 1984. Ironically, that day of the photo, it was foggy! The now multi-million dollar view was hidden away, like a scene from the screenplay Brigadoon
The “Valley” as it was called in the 80’s was the happening place for pop culture. The Odyssey was front and center. The restaurant still thrives. So many parties, engagements, weddings and so much more have happened since then. With all that history behind now, is it possible that that day in 1984 at the dirt lot, with an incredible valley view is a “Brigadoon” of its own? Or a “Bagpiper Odyssey”….
Near By Bagpiper Odyssey Venues
Groman Eden cemetery is just down the street from the restaurant. And, bag pipe player Harry performs for services several times a year. Also, the song “over the Rainbow” is requested often. The view from the hillside of the cemetery is grand. And, the entire San Fernando Valley is the view. Additionally, San Fernando Mission cemetery is across the street. Rinaldi is a convenient road for seeing the north valley.
Odyssey Bagpiper Harry performs all over the southland. Notably, the home base is in Woodland Hills. And, popular locations for bagpipe players include Malibu, Bel-Air, Pasadena and Glendale. Additionally, Beverly Hills, Pacific Palisades, Camarillo and Santa Clarita are common wedding hubs. Santa Monica and coastal towns, Venice and Ventura, are cooler for summer events. Additionally, TV and media is located around Studio City and Burbank–Hollywood. Moreover, Holy Cross is centrally located in Culver City. Glendale is home to Forest Lawn.