Ned of the Hill (Air)

Eamonn A Chnoic (Ned of the Hill) is a very old air. The song in Irishoriginally told the story of Edmund Ryan of Tipperary. After the disastrousTreaty of Limerick of 1691, Ryan choose not to emigrate to France during the"Flight of the Wild Geese", but remain in Ireland conducting what would todaybe called a guerilla campaign. He was eventually betrayed and murdered. Somestories have it that the price on his head had been lifted weeks before hisdeath.

As an air in the old style, Eamonn A Chnoic should be played very expressivly. While it is notated above in 3/4 time, it is actually played "rubato". Istrongly suggest that any who wish to perform this tune first find a recordingor a performer who has this in thier repetoire. If you can find a piper whoplays this, all the better!

McDermott's Handy

Note: While this sheet music is provided for reference and convenience, I would take it as a personal favour if you would find a local musician to teach it to you or a local session where you could hear it played. This will enable you to learn the phrasing and ornamentation for your instrument which generally is not notated here. The best way to learn Irish traditional music is by ear, by listening to and/or learning from a musician experienced in the genre. At the very least, you will want to memorize the tune so that this page would be superfluous. This version is a version that I played at the time I created this page; it may not be the same as the version I currently play, and it may not be the same as the version with which you are familiar. Go raibh maith agat; Thanks!
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