Tripping Up The Stairs

'Tripping Up The Stairs' is a widely popular and long-lasting jig. It exists in many variations.

Origins and Alternate Names:

The tune is sometimes called "The Eavesdropper," but this is incorrect. It has also been known as “The Jew Jig,” attributed to composer John McGrath (1900-1955). In France, it’s called "Jig de Tony Hall," named for Norfolk musician Tony Hall.

Musical Characteristics:

• The tune is in 6/8 time and key of D major.
• There is room for significant variation in the melody. Some players alter the length of notes in the opening bar, for example, playing F2A G2B instead of FAA GBB.
• The second part of the tune often moves to B minor and some players add triplets to the Bs.
• There are differing opinions on the best way to play the C note; it can be played as CBC or held for a longer duration.
• The tune sometimes pairs well with other jigs like “The Black Cat.”
• It is considered to be similar to part A of "The Swallowtail Jig."

Associated Tunes and Performances:

• It is often played following “Donnybrook Fair.”
• An Irish Ceili band sometimes plays it as “Roscabury” followed by another tune. The second tune is speculated to be "The Leitrim."
• A rendition of the tune has appeared in the production music for *Spongebob Squarepants*.
• A version of the tune has been shared by justjim at pubs.

Availability:

The tune can be found online and is available in ABC notation and recordings. A version with guitar chords is also available.

Note: There is ongoing debate about the connection of this tune to others, and some listings incorrectly associate "Tripping Up The Stairs" with "My Darling Asleep."