During our last session, we looked at several traditional Irish tunes in honor of St. Patrick's Day (see the sidebar for links to chords and lyrics). It was suggested that we continue the theme throughout March, which suits me fine -- I love this stuff!
I've been quite charmed these last two weeks with a pretty waltz called The Bard of Armagh. Take a look -- this version is in D, so it's easy for the dulcimers. I'll show you a spot to throw in a Bm chord that will add a little plaintive depth to the verses -- it's really fun to Embrace the Maudlin with these old ballads. We can polish up some of the other pieces we tried as well.
Another good song for this month would be Sun's Gonna Shine. I learned this piece from Susan Boyer Haley at a dulcimer retreat about 5 years ago. Like so many Depression-era songs, it combines great energy with a peppy chorus and utterly depressing lyrics.
Chorus
Sun's gonna shine in my back door some day
Sun's gonna shine in my back door some day
Sun's gonna shine in my back door some day
March wind's gonna blow my blues all away
My mama told me many years ago
Never to marry no boy that I know
"Won't give you money, nor decent clothes
What will become of you God only knows"
Sun's gonna shine.....
Hard times are comin', so I've been told
Never trade love for an old rich man's gold
Hard times are comin', this much I know
Love ain't gonna help when you're hungry and cold
Sun's gonna shine.....
Low down mean woman, she tried to steal my man
Low down mean woman, she tried to steal my man
Low down mean woman, she tried to steal my man
If I ever catch her, gonna kill her if I can
Sun's gonna shine.....
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