Cherish The Ladies

Cherish the Ladies is a beloved traditional Irish session tune that evokes a sense of warmth, nostalgia, and celebration. Its gentle melody and rhythmic complexity have made it a staple in Irish music circles for generations. The tune often features a flowing, danceable rhythm, with intricate ornamentation and embellishments that showcase the skill of the musicians.

Its lyrical and evocative quality makes it a popular choice for both instrumental and vocal performances, often sung with heartfelt emotion. Whether played on the fiddle, flute, bodhrán, or any other traditional Irish instrument, “Cherish the Ladies” continues to captivate audiences with its timeless beauty and charm.

Key

D maj.

Tune Type

Jig

The history of “Cherish the Ladies” is somewhat shrouded in mystery. While it’s a well-known and beloved tune, its specific origins and composer remain uncertain. It’s possible that the tune has its roots in traditional Irish folk music, evolving over time through oral transmission and adaptation.
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Some speculate that the title might reference a group of women, perhaps a dance troupe or a family, who were held in high esteem or affection. However, there’s no definitive evidence to support this theory. Despite the lack of concrete historical information, “Cherish the Ladies” has undoubtedly become a cherished part of Irish musical heritage, continuing to be played and enjoyed by musicians and audiences around the world.  
While “Cherish the Ladies” is a popular Irish session tune, it’s primarily an instrumental piece, meaning it doesn’t have lyrics in the traditional sense. It’s designed to be played on instruments like the fiddle, flute, or bodhrán, rather than sung.