Fiddler’s Green

“Fiddler’s Green” is a traditional Irish tune with a rich history steeped in both folklore and the maritime culture of Ireland. The title refers to a mythical place where musicians and sailors are said to spend eternity, playing music in peace and harmony. In this imagined afterlife, “Fiddler’s Green” symbolizes an idyllic paradise free from the struggles of life, where musicians can continue to play forever in the company of their peers.

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Though the tune itself is often played as a lively reel or jig, the exact origins are unclear, as Fiddler’s Green has been passed down through oral tradition and can be found in various forms in both Irish and Scottish folk music. The story of Fiddler’s Green, however, is widely known in maritime culture, particularly among sailors, who believed it to be a place of rest for those who spent their lives at sea. The tune evokes this connection with the sea and the notion of eternal music, resonating with sailors, musicians, and Irish folk music enthusiasts alike.

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The first references to Fiddler’s Green in a musical context appear in the 19th century, though the tune likely existed in some form before it was widely recorded. As with many folk tunes, Fiddler’s Green became part of the shared musical repertoire of the Irish and Scottish traditions, with regional variations in performance and interpretation. The melody, known for its lively rhythm and catchy phrases, has made it a popular piece for both solo and group performances.

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Today, Fiddler’s Green continues to be a favorite in Irish music sessions, especially in maritime or seafaring communities where the connection between music and the sea is strong. The tune’s enduring popularity lies in its ability to evoke both the joy of music and the peaceful imagery of a place where musicians are free to play forever. It remains a staple in the folk music tradition, played with exuberance and reverence wherever it is performed.

As I walked by the dockside one evening so rare To view the salt waters and take in the salt air I spied an old fisherman singing a song Oh, take me away boys me time is not long

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Wrap me up in me oilskins and jumper No more on the docks I’ll be seen Just tell me old shipmates, I’m taking a trip mates And I’ll see you someday on Fiddlers Green

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Now Fiddlers Green is a place I’ve heard tell Where the fishermen go if they don’t go to hell Where the skies are all clear and the dolphins do play And the cold coast of Greenland is far, far away

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Wrap me up in me oilskins and jumper No more on the docks I’ll be seen Just tell me old shipmates, I’m taking a trip mates And I’ll see you someday on Fiddlers Green

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Where the skies are all clear and there’s never a gail And the fish jump on board with one swish on their tail Where you lie at your leisure, there’s no work to do And the skipper’s below making tea for the crew

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Wrap me up in me oilskins and jumper No more on the docks I’ll be seen Just tell me old shipmates, I’m taking a trip mates And I’ll see you someday on Fiddlers Green