I play free for certain charities that I support, and for an old folks party around christmas time. if the customer is able bodied and is able to pay for things like a DJ and wedding cars then they can pay for a piper. simple as
I dont need the exposure I have enough work.

I evaluate each booking request for free pipeing as it comes, however 9 times out of ten the requestee can afford my services but tries to get me free, often I get booked for events that are community based or involve disabled or elderly people or veterans, these are the only ones I will consider and often these are the ones who are willing to pay.

all to often musicians are the one that the client and promoters will scrimp on, the DJ the sound guy the security guy the limo driver the cake maker and the dress maker all want paying

SO DO I