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Guitar music for “Sheebag Sheemore” performed by Jeff Eardley.

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The Session

Monday at the Shamrock Inn,
So, the session does begin,
Rosin up the fiddle’s bow,
Get in tune and off we go.

Pipes and flutes and mandolin,
More musicians coming in,
Carolan alive once more,
As we play Sheebeg, Sheemore.

Jigs and reels in G and D,
Fill the players hearts with glee,
Banging out a joyful noise,
Better now than Planxty’s boys,

Tables groan ‘neath weight of beer,
Customers will oft appear,
Stick their heads around the door,
Wonder what the laughter’s for.

Fingers flashing on the frets,
Now as good as music gets,
Feet are tapping in the street,
To the banjo’s bouncy beat.

All good things, alas must end,
For our band of happy friends,
Landlord calling time for sure,
Shamrock pub is quiet once more.

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Poet’s Note: Eighteenth century Irish harpist, Turlough O. Carolan wrote many good tunes. One of the best is “Si Bheag Si Mhor” anglicised as “Sheebeg Sheemore” or sometimes, “She begs for more,” but that is another story! Also note that Planxty were perhaps the greatest ever Irish band.

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Jeff Eardley lives in the heart of England near to the Peak District National Park and is a local musician playing guitar, mandolin and piano steeped in the music of America, including the likes of Ry Cooder, Paul Simon, and particularly Hank Williams.

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8 Responses

  1. Susan Jarvis Bryant

    Simply beautiful, Jeff – the lovely words and the wonderful music. Thank you! You’ve made me cry for the plight of the Irish.

    Reply
  2. Jeff Eardley

    Susan, it is a huge privilege to share this special day with you. The spirit of Ireland will endure with all the joy that their music provides in these troubled times. I hope that you and Mike are enjoying a glass or two of the black nectar today.

    Reply
  4. Roy Eugene Peterson

    I always enjoy your creative music. I missed this one for some reason on St. Patrick’s Day. Thank you for the melodious tune and footnotes that added so much.

    Reply
  5. Jeff Eardley

    Thank you Roy. Paddy’s day used to be a big affair over here, every town having an Irish pub, but alas, no longer, which is a pity as the music is so melodic and has certainly travelled over to your side of the pond. Your comment is much appreciated.

    Reply
  6. Shamik Banerjee

    Fun and entertaining, Jeff! I really enjoyed this poem to the bits. Thanks for sharing!

    Reply

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