Annotation:King of the Clans

Find traditional instrumental music

Back to King of the Clans


KING OF THE CLANS (Rí na gClann). Irish, Reel. G Major. Standard tuning (fiddle). AB (O'Neill): AA'BB' (Shanachie). A once uncommon reel that was considered by many to be "awkward" to play because of the crossing of strings required, according to Bronx fiddler Andy McGann, who learned the tune from fiddler Martin Wynne. However, the tune goes in and out of fashion, and is sometimes heard at modern sessions.

Source for notated version:

Printed sources: O'Neill (Dance Music of Ireland: 1001 Gems), 1907; No. 788, p. 137. Peoples (Fifty Irish Fiddle Tunes), 1986; 20.

Recorded sources: GTD Heritage Trad. HCD 008, Tommy Peoples - "Traditional Irish Music Played on the Fiddle." Rounder Records 7057, Jerry Holland - "Parlor Music" (2005). Shanachie 29009, "Andy McGann & Paul Brady" (the music is notated in the booklet that comes with the album).




Back to King of the Clans