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Bagpiper spreading joy to different Highlands Ranch neighborhood each day

Posted at 10:11 PM, Apr 08, 2020
and last updated 2020-04-09 02:42:04-04

HIGHLANDS RANCH, Colo. — For the last few weeks, a distinct sound has echoed through Highlands Ranch neighborhoods.

Each day Andy Michaud plays his bagpipes. The area he chooses changes each time.

"I just go to the map and say, 'I’m going to this neighborhood tomorrow,'" Michaud explained as he told Denver7 how he chooses each neighborhood.

Wherever he goes, Michaud tends to draw a crowd. On Wednesday, Michaud's pipes echoed through the Stratton Ridge Neighborhood. Emily Drost's family and many others stepped outside after hearing the music — many taking pictures with a smile on their faces.

"We were curious if he’d ever come down this way," said Drost. "It’s nice when he can come out and it brings everyone else out and we get a break from staying inside all day."

That's what keeps Michaud marching.

"It makes me happy and just makes my heart warm to see people are enjoying what I’m doing," says Michaud.

His appearances tend to be posted to social media.

"He was wonderful. Everyone stopped to take videos and photos," says Highlands Ranch resident Kacy Hansen.

"You see people and all of a sudden their head pops up around their fence," says Michaud.

MIchaud tells us some are surprised to see and hear the Chatfield High School music teacher playing the beautiful tune.

"I doubt many people see a piper come through their backyard," Michaud joked.

If you haven't heard him yet, don't worry. Michaud plans on going to every walking trail in Highlands Ranch. He estimates it will take him a couple more months. Plenty of time for him to continue spreading joy during this difficult time.

"There’s light at the end of the tunnel. There’s something beautiful in everyday," Michaud said, explaning why he will continue playing.