Brenda Stubbert's

"Brenda Stubbert's" is a popular reel tune. It was originally written by Jerry Holland, a fiddler from Cape Breton, Nova Scotia. It’s believed to have been written in honor of Brenda Stubbert, another Cape Breton fiddler, who holds copyright on the tune.

Origin and Authorship: There is some debate regarding the authorship. While Brenda Stubbert is named after the tune, the prevailing consensus is that Jerry Holland composed it.

Popularity and Performance: This tune is frequently played in fiddle sessions. It's known to be a crowd-pleaser and has been heard in Santa Fe and Albuquerque.

Key and Versions: The tune is commonly played in A Dorian, although other keys, such as B minor and E Dorian, are also used. It often follows tunes like "Cutting Ferns" or "High Road to Linton."

Musical Style: Many players incorporate triplets and specific note transitions, such as a jump from A to A and then A to G, to create a distinctive sound. It’s also been described as having a “tricky rhythm.” Some musicians describe a version influenced by the Edinburgh style.

Related Tunes: It's often paired with tunes such as “Killarney Boys of Pleasure,” "The Snipe", and sometimes included in sets with tunes like "Bernadette’s" and "Lady Gordon of Gordonstown." Some players have noticed similarities between "Brenda Stubbert's" and "Hugh Macdonald."

Influence & Evolution: While generally a Cape Breton tune, it's not traditionally played in Ireland, though it's gaining popularity. The tune has slightly changed from Jerry Holland's original composition, with some richer chord arrangements being incorporated.

Note: There's speculation that the tune may be connected to James Morrison of Assynt House, but this remains unconfirmed.

Recordings of Jerry Holland playing the tune are available in online archives and reissues.