The Sailor’s Bonnet

The Sailor’s Bonnet is a lively Irish reel that has become a staple of traditional music sessions worldwide. Often played as the third tune in the famous “Tarbolton Set” popularized by the legendary fiddler Michael Coleman, this tune has a distinctive and energetic character.

While its origins remain somewhat shrouded in mystery, its catchy melody and rhythmic drive have made it a beloved choice for musicians across a variety of instruments. With its upbeat tempo and playful phrasing, “The Sailor’s Bonnet” invites musicians to showcase their technical prowess and improvisational flair, making it a thrilling piece to both play and listen to.

Key

D Maj.

Tune Type

Reel

Sheet Music

History

The history of “The Sailor’s Bonnet” is shrouded in the rich tapestry of Irish traditional music. While its exact origins remain elusive, the tune’s popularity skyrocketed thanks to the legendary fiddler Michael Coleman. He included it as the final piece in his famous “Tarbolton Set,” a collection of reels that became a cornerstone of Irish music repertoire.

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However, it’s worth noting that Coleman wasn’t the tune’s originator. A recording by flute player John McKenna and fiddler James Morrison predates Coleman’s version, suggesting that “The Sailor’s Bonnet” had already been circulating in the Irish music community for some time. Despite its enduring popularity, the tune’s exact age and the circumstances of its creation continue to be a subject of intrigue for music historians and enthusiasts alike.

Also Known As

Other names for “The Sailor’s Bonnet” are less common, but you might encounter variations like:

Bairéad an mháirnéalaigh (Irish for “Sailor’s Bonnet”)
Boinéad na tSeoltóra (another Irish translation)
Highlander’s Bonnet (though this might be a different tune entirely or a misattribution)

It’s important to note that the last option, “Highlander’s Bonnet,” is often listed as an alternative title, but there’s some debate about whether it’s actually the same tune.

Lyrics

There are no lyrics for “The Sailor’s Bonnet.”. It’s an instrumental piece of traditional Irish music, specifically a reel. Reels are typically played without vocals. The music itself tells the story.