Bill Collins has been playing the highland bagpipe since 1991. On first taking up the instrument, he joined the ranks of the Glen Erin Pipe Band in Lansing, Michigan where he now serves as Pipe Major and Music Director.

Bill grew up in Eaton Rapids, Michigan and first learned music playing the trombone in school and later in the marching band at Michigan State University. He was also active in community theater in high school and college. After college, he looked to the bagpipe as a new outlet for performance and creative energy.

Since 2005, Bill has been playing Celtic rock-n-roll bagpipes with Belfast Gin. Belfast Gin mixes a large ensemble of acoustic and electric guitar, drums, bagpipes, flute, and whistle with lead vocals by Laurie Laing. Frequent engagements in Kalamazoo and Lansing as well as elsewhere around Michigan.

Since taking up the pipes, Bill has been playing non-stop. He has performed at band functions, weddings, funerals, parties, golf outings, and all manner of events. He has also performed at Boy Scouts gatherings and American Cancer Society events. Standing events include the Clan MacNeil Robert Burns Celebration, the Grand Valley State University Renaissance Faire, and the annual Wallace Clan Reunion. He's also been known to appear on stage at various bars and pubs from time to time.

Bill lives in Eaton Rapids, Michigan with his wife and children.