Patsy Geary’s

Patsy Geary’s is a lively and popular slide in the traditional Irish music repertoire. Originally unnamed, it was later attributed to the Dublin shopkeeper Patsy Geary by his friend, musician John Kelly. Its infectious rhythm and melodic charm have solidified its place as a staple in Irish sessions worldwide.

While its origins remain somewhat obscure, the tune’s enduring appeal lies in its adaptability; it seamlessly blends with a variety of instruments and playing styles, making it a favorite among both seasoned musicians and beginners alike. Whether played with a driving fiddle, a melodic flute, or a rhythmic bodhrán, Patsy Geary’s consistently brings energy and joy to any musical gathering.

Key

D Maj.

Tune Type

Slide

Sheet Music

History

While the melody of Patsy Geary’s is undeniably catchy and has become a cornerstone of Irish traditional music, its origins are shrouded in a bit of mystery. The tune didn’t originally bear this name; it was actually bestowed upon it by the renowned Irish musician, John Kelly. Kelly, a native of County Clare, learned the tune from his mentor and friend, Patsy Geary, a fiddle player from County Tipperary. Known for his vibrant personality and love of music, Geary was a frequent participant in house dances. To honor their friendship and the tune’s association with Geary, Kelly named it after him.

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Interestingly, the first part of the melody shares a striking resemblance to the American song “Yellow Rose of Texas,” though adapted to the jig rhythm. How this connection came to be is another intriguing aspect of the tune’s history. Despite the lack of definitive information about its origins, Patsy Geary’s has undeniably earned its place in the rich tapestry of Irish traditional music.

Also Known As

Kimmel’s Jig
Micky Callaghan’s Jig
Yellow Rose (The) – This is due to the tune’s first part sharing a strong resemblance to the American song “Yellow Rose of Texas.”

Lyrics

There are no lyrics for Patsy Geary’s. It’s a traditional Irish instrumental tune, typically played on instruments like the fiddle, flute, or accordion. There are no vocals or sung words associated with it.