The Kid On The Mountain
About the Tune
"The Kid On The Mountain" is a popular Irish slip jig tune. It can be tricky to play quickly, and many musicians choose to play fewer notes rather than trying to add too much ornamentation. Some players simplify triplets, treating them as longer notes.
Accompaniment: Accompanying this tune can be difficult. Chords often shift between E minor, D major, G major, and D major.
Structure and Variations: The tune is known for its "call and response" pattern, which creates a lively feeling. Some players slide up to notes or use long "rolls" to add emphasis. A bowed triplet was sometimes played early on, but this is now generally discouraged.
The "Sixth Part": Historically, a "sixth part" to the tune was rarely played or heard. However, Andy McGann has been known to play this section, which can be found on recordings. It’s sometimes referred to as the "abcs" of the tune.
Popular Pairings: It's often played alongside tunes like "Hardyman the Fiddler" or “Dever the Dancer”.
Historical Context: A song with lyrics, titled "The Bottle of Wine," is linked to this slip jig and was collected in the 1950s. Patrick O’ Loughlin (also known as Largie) was associated with a version of the song. Some associate it with the “Pretty Girls of Mayo” reel.
Multiple Versions: Several versions of the tune exist, including a lengthy setting from 1909 by P.W. Joyce. One arrangement is for piano, low whistle, and bodhran. A whimsical story claims the tune's name was playfully altered in Quebec to "Le Chevrolet sur la Rue de la Montagne."
Note: The time signature of the tune is debated. While some try to force it into 6/8 time, the consensus is that it is a slip jig.
Listen and Learn the Tune:
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.
