The Otter's Holt

'Otter’s Holt, The' is a traditional Irish reel tune. It is believed to have been composed by Junior Crehan, who was initially not credited for it on an early recording.

Origins & Title: The tune's name, "Otter’s Holt," refers to an otter’s den. "Holt" is an old word for a wooded area or hillside. The tune’s name in Irish is "Poll an Mhadra Uisce," which literally means "The Waterdog’s Hole.” It is thought that the name evolved over time to “The Otter's Holt”. Junior Crehan recounted a story that his mother would play music outdoors, and otters would come out of a nearby stream to listen.

Popularity: The tune became widely known after appearing on Matt Molloy’s solo recording.

Melodic Connections: The A part of the tune shares a melody with the refrain of a song called “Take Her In Your Arms” by Andy Stewart. Some people have adjusted the rhythm and key of "Otter’s Holt" to more closely resemble this song.

Key & Playing Style: Junior Crehan reportedly played the tune a tone below the standard transcription. Playing the tune in A minor can reduce some of its “shrillness.” It is often played with cut notes, especially in measures 1, 3, 5, and 8 of Part A. There are also variations in how the triplets in Part B are played; some players slur them, while others single-bow them.

Associated Tunes & Traditions: The tune is commonly paired with “The Drunken Landlady” and is traditionally played in hornpipe rhythm. It is also often played after other Junior Crehan tunes.

Variations and Recordings: Many different variations and recordings of “Otter’s Holt, The” exist, including versions influenced by Kevin Burke, Michael McGoldrick, Joanie Madden, and the Bothy Band. There is speculation about the existence of a third part to the tune, although it has not been widely documented.

Note: There's ongoing discussion and speculation about some details, such as the precise origins and meaning of the title.