Dusty Windowsills

"Dusty Windowsills" is a jig composed by John Harling, a musician from Chicago, Illinois. He is currently alive and in his 60s. The tune is not a traditional Irish tune.

How the Name Came About:

The name "Dusty Windowsills" originates from a couple of stories. One account suggests Harling wrote the tune’s notes with his finger on a dusty windowsill. Another, supported by his daughter, Jessica Harling, explains that he wrote it down quickly on a dusty windowsill after the idea came to him. He later transcribed it onto paper.

Early Recognition:

The tune was initially known as “The Chicago Jig” and later "Harding’s Jig," likely a misinterpretation of Harling’s last name.

Playing the Tune:

The tune is considered to have a tricky final section, which some find easier to play on the whistle rather than the fiddle. Some fiddlers suggest using a droning A string instead of moving between strings to make this section easier, though its effectiveness is debated. It's also sometimes played in Edorian.

Popularity and Variations:

“Dusty Windowsills” has become a popular tune at music sessions. It appears under various names, including "The Boys of the Town," "Austin Barrett’s," and "The Grandfather." Musicians, including Pete Cooper, have included it in instructional books to teach techniques like rolls on open strings.

Harling's Music Career:

John Harling plays the tin whistle and has also played the flute. He was a member of the band “The Reeks” and plays at Chicago music events. He judges at feis's and writes music, though he is not a full-time musician. He’s known to have written other tunes, such as "The Lowe Reel" and "The Maricaibo Reel."

Note:

The exact circumstances surrounding the tune’s naming and the specifics of its early dissemination, remain speculative.