The Tarbolton

'The Tarbolton' is a traditional tune that is known by several names, including 'Tarbolton Lodge.' It is originally Scottish in origin, connected to the Tarbolton Lodge of the Masons, a branch associated with Robert Burns. It is now widely played and recognized as an Irish tune.

How it's Played & Known:

• The tune is frequently played as a set with 'The Longford Collector' and 'The Sailor’s Bonnet.' Michael Coleman and the Bothy Band popularized this combination.
• It appears in collections like "O'Neill's 1001" and is found in the "Blue Book" alongside those other tunes.
• Performers like The Chieftains, Johnny Doran, John Kelly, Davy Spillane (whose version deviates from the traditional), and the McCusker Brothers have recorded and played it.
• The tune is considered to be played at a speed that makes it easy to learn.

Musical Details (Subject to Variation):

• The accent is generally on the second syllable of "Tarbolton."
• There is some discussion about a note missing at the beginning of the B part; some players suggest an f#.
• Some players utilize an open string for the high Es.

Variations and Recordings:

• Finbar Furey also has a well-known version.
• Katharina Glös has recorded it on the recorder, highlighting the instrument’s distinctive sound.

Current Location & Pronunciation:

The village of Tarbolton is in East Ayrshire, Scotland. The name is locally pronounced “Tar-BOW-ton."