“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 a 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.