“I cannot imagine a better arrangement…all those diversions in textures, beautiful writing for the voices’ ranges, a preservation of the rollicking rhythm, and just-right balance between melody and accompanying chords—with great lyric underlay.” —Dr. David Gonzol, Professor Emeritus of Music, Shepherd University

This rollicking, brash Irish folk song is a lot of fun. It’s a tale of a hardship and misfortune, but it’s told in the demeanor of the tough guy who might just as well be telling the story of how he conquered the world. That’s the energy I’ve striven to embody in this arrangement.

It’s accompanied by a drum, ideally a bodhrán, but a low-pitched hand drum such as a djembe can work. For reference, listen to Jamie Jordan’s bodhrán performance in the video below.

The main version has some divisi in the final verse. An alternate 5-voice version is available, which can be sung by only five singers, including the soloist. I recommend the main version if you have more than five singers.

Audiences will love it. Don’t forget to turn up the swagger.