The Jig Of Slurs
About the Tune
'The Jig Of Slurs' is a tune that originated with Scottish Highland pipers and has become popular in Irish music. It’s believed to have been composed by George ‘G.S.’ McLennan, an Aberdeen piper who played before Queen Victoria. McLennan is considered a significant composer of ‘light’ music for the Highland bagpipes.
The tune features a notable key change from D to G around the third part, which many musicians appreciate. It works well on guitar, encouraging a picking style rather than strumming. Fiddlers can create a droning effect on the open D string in the first part and the open G string in the third and fourth parts.
Some people refer to the tune as 'Jar of Slugs,' though this is likely a joke.
Originally, Highland pipers used a technique called a "slur," which Irish musicians call a "pat," which involved lower gracenotes. Some versions of the tune have since replaced these "slurs" with long rolls.
There is speculation that McLennan may have played in G over the A drones, and it's rumored that the tune may have been altered over time.
A complete, authentic notation of this tune is difficult to find, but can be viewed using specialized software.
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Disclaimer: Much of this tune background is hard to trace, and some details remain speculative. These summaries draw on trad community discussion and other available sources, and will be updated as better verified information emerges. If you spot an error or have confirmed information to add, please get in touch and I'll update the site.