Kevin Murison, a bagpiper in Ottawa, receives varied reactions while performing on a bustling sidewalk during weekends, with most being positive. Murison, 35, often dressed in full Highland attire, entertains on the bridge near the Ottawa Locks by the Château Laurier. Despite some individuals covering their ears as they pass by, he receives numerous compliments praising his music.
In a noteworthy encounter last year, a tourist from Brazil was deeply moved by Murison’s performance, leading her to hug him and offer her contact details for a potential South American visit. However, not all interactions have been pleasant. Murison recalls an incident where a man demanded he stop playing, then proceeded to throw a drink at him and steal money from his open pipe case.
Recently, a troubling incident occurred on a Saturday afternoon that left Murison with a gash in his bagpipe bag and four stitches in his thumb. He narrates being approached by a man under the guise of taking a photo, only to brandish a knife during the encounter.
Following the attack, a bystander called 911, leading to a swift police response. The suspect, a 25-year-old man, faces multiple charges, including assault with a weapon. Ottawa police described the assault as unprovoked.
Despite the ordeal, Murison remains determined to continue his passion for playing the bagpipes, a skill he has honed for about 15 years. He speculates that the attack may have been aimed at his instrument rather than at him personally. The bagpiping community has rallied around Murison, providing him with a new bag and expressing overwhelming support.
While Murison currently wears a bandage on his injured thumb, he anticipates returning to busking once he has recovered fully. Despite the harrowing experience, he remains resolute in his commitment to continue sharing his music with the public.