Haste To The Wedding

“Haste to the Wedding” is a well-known traditional double jig with a rich history that dates back to the mid-18th century. The tune first appeared in print in 1767 in London, included in a stage production titled The Maid of the Mill. The play, a pastoral opera, featured this lively jig as a central dance piece, which helped it gain widespread popularity in Britain and Ireland.

.

The tune’s association with weddings and festive gatherings is evident in its title, which reflects the celebratory mood it conveys. “Haste to the Wedding” became a favorite for social dances and was often performed as part of céilís and communal celebrations, where its lively rhythm kept spirits high. The tune was further popularized by being included in key collections of Irish music, such as Francis O’Neill’s The Dance Music of Ireland: 1001 Gems in 1907.

.

Not limited to Irish tradition, “Haste to the Wedding” also found its way into English, Scottish, and even North American folk repertoires, demonstrating its universal appeal. In some traditions, lyrics were added to the melody, further cementing its role in cultural celebrations. Its enduring charm and spirited melody continue to make it a favorite in traditional Irish music sessions worldwide.

Come haste to the wedding ye friends and ye neighbors, The lovers their bliss can no longer delay. Forget all your sorrows your cares and your labors, And let every heart beat with rapture today. Come, come one and all, attend to my call, And revel in pleasures that never can cloy. Come see rural felicity, Which love and innocence ever enjoy.

.

Let Envy, Let Pride, Let Hate & Ambition, Still Crowd to, & beat at the breast of the Great, To Such Wretched Passions we Give no admission, But Leave them alone to the wise ones of State, We Boast of No wealth, but Contentment & Health, In mirth & in Friendship, our moments employ Come see rural felicity, Which love and innocence ever enjoy.

.

With Reason we taste of Each Heart Stirring pleasure, With Reason we Drink of the full flowing Bowl, Are Jocund & Gay, But ’tis all within measure, For fatal excess will enslave the free Soul, Then Come at our bidding to this Happy wedding, No Care Shall obtrude here, our Bliss to annoy, Come see rural felicity, Which love and innocence ever enjoy.