Banish Misfortune

Banish Misfortune is a lively Irish jig that has become a staple of traditional music sessions worldwide. Its upbeat tempo and catchy melody make it a crowd-pleaser, often serving as a welcome break from slower tunes. While its origins are shrouded in the mists of time, the tune’s enduring popularity is a testament to its infectious energy.

Interestingly, “Banish Misfortune” is structured in three parts rather than the typical two, adding an element of complexity and intrigue. This unique characteristic, combined with its energetic rhythm, makes it a challenging yet rewarding tune for musicians to master. Whether played on the fiddle, flute, accordion, or any other traditional instrument, “Banish Misfortune” continues to be a beloved cornerstone of Irish musical heritage.

Key

D mix.

Tune Type

Jjig

Sheet Music

History

While the exact origins of “Banish Misfortune” remain shrouded in the mists of Irish folklore, we can trace its documented history back to the late 19th century. It was first transcribed and published in 1850 by Edward Cronin, a renowned Irish fiddler, in a seminal collection of Irish tunes. This early version already displayed the tune’s characteristic upbeat energy and three-part structure.

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The tune’s popularity surged in the 20th century, thanks in part to the influential recordings of The Chieftains. Their rendition introduced a slightly different, more modal version of the tune, which has become the widely recognized standard today. This resurgence helped solidify “Banish Misfortune” as a cornerstone of traditional Irish music, played and loved by musicians and listeners alike. . Despite its enduring popularity, the tune’s original composer remains unknown, adding a layer of mystery to its already rich history.

Also Known As

Díbir an Mí-ádh
Ruaig an Mí-ádh

Lyrics

There are no lyrics for “Banish Misfortune.” It’s an instrumental tune, typically played on instruments like the fiddle, flute, accordion, or banjo. Irish traditional music primarily relies on melodies and rhythms to convey emotion and tell stories, rather than spoken words.