Originally from Big Pond and now based in Sydney, Cape Breton, Ryan J. MacNeil is celebrated for his powerful yet graceful playing style. A master of the highland bagpipes, border pipes, and whistles, he brings a distinctive and deeply personal touch to every performance. His electrifying, high-energy sound remains firmly rooted in Cape Breton’s rich, dance-driven musical traditions. In recent years, Ryan has also earned widespread recognition as a gifted composer, with his original tunes performed and recorded by artists both locally and internationally. He released his acclaimed solo album Piper in 2005 and continues to contribute to Cape Breton’s piping culture through his work with the Cape Breton Island Pipe Band, where he plays a key role in teaching and mentoring the next generation of pipers. Ryan will be performing in the Pipers’ Ceilidh and with Beòlach during their 25th anniversary show.