Good point about the uillean pipes and the playing method. They are also not as loud as highland pipes, which could have some effect on the context of playing. I have played in bands with highland pipers, they rarely need amplification. Actually, I’m not sure if there is any instrument louder than a highland bagpipes (excluding modern amplification or steam powered instruments).
Radio Raheem and calliopes come to mind, but calliopes aren’t very portable.
[quote=“Musicat, post:22, topic:626868”]
Radio Raheem and calliopes come to mind, but calliopes aren’t very portable.[/QUOTE
Yes, that’s why I excluded steam powered instruments, because of the calliope
And Radio Raheem is a “D”-powered instrument. 
Uillean pipes would be perfect for the wake, though - they’re mellow enough for songs and indoor events.
Well, I imagine the concert bass drum and the larger tam-tams are probably louder, but only if beaten continuously. Their volume drops off very quickly after they are struck.
concert bass drum? pshaw.
according to this site, the drum’s average volume is 110 decibels.
according to this site, the pipes can reach 122 decibels.
Looks like you’re comparing average to extreme. Hardly fair.
Powers &8^]
Yes, but drums are an intermittent sound, while pipes are continuous (literally so, for it is impossible to tongue or otherwise phrase them).
You’ve got to constantly beat the fuck out of the drum to keep it at a high volume, but yes, it can outpower the pipes.
Were the last three words of the thread title really required?
“As regards one instrument (the bagpipes) I am still in [a primitive] condition. I can’t tell one piece from another, nor a good piper from a bad. It is all just ‘pipes’ , all equally intoxicating, heartrending, orgiastic.” — C. S. Lewis
Why do they play bagpipes at police funerals?
You are supposed to cry at funerals, so they use bagpipes to ensure it.