The Little Beggarman

"The Little Beggarman," also sometimes called "Danny Pearl's Favorite," is a tune played by musicians in several countries. It can be played as a hornpipe.

How It's Played:

• Key & Style: It's most often played in G mixolydian or A mixolydian. Some players modify it, occasionally playing the F as F# in some bars. There’s disagreement on how it's notated, with some players arguing about the presence of G# notes and piano parts.
• Tempo: In Rhode Island, it's often played slower than some recorded versions, leading into "The Merry Blacksmith."
• Variations: It can also be played as a reel or a barndance. In some areas, it is played swung.

Origins & Names:

• The tune’s origins are debated, with speculation of Scottish roots and connections to a tune called “Gilderoy.” It is also sometimes linked to Scottish songs about a “red-haired boy.”
• After journalist Danny Pearl was tragically killed, musicians began using "Danny Pearl's Favorite" as an alternate title to honor him. This practice followed a pattern of naming tunes in memory of people.

Regional Variations:

• Rhode Island: Played slower, leading to "The Merry Blacksmith."
• Bristol, England: Some players believe it has Scottish origins.
• Allegheny Region (USA): Known as “Red Haired Boy” in a major key and “Gilderoy” in a minor key.
• Australia: A group once performed the tune with accompanying lyrics called “Jolly Swaggie.”
• Newfoundland: Played with a particular style.
• Bluegrass/Old-Time Sessions: Often played by guitarists who learned it from Doc Watson.

Associated Songs and Tunes:

• Lyrics exist for the song “The Little Beggarman,” with versions sung by Jolly Roger and Sarah Makem.
• Paddy Doran plays it as “Roving Journeyman” with vocals.
• It is sometimes played after "Mason's."
• It is related to "The Parting Glass" and “The Peacock’s Feathers.”

Note: There is ongoing discussion about the tune’s proper notation, key, and tempo.