The Most Versatile Irish Reels

Transition Analysis: Analysis of 2,783 transitions across 2180 sets suggests that this tune functions as a highly flexible mid-set connector. Its balanced starter rate (42.8%) and median set position of 2 indicate that musicians regularly use it throughout sets rather than reserving it for a single fixed role. Common session transitions include: Leads to: The Wise Maid (18.5%), Leads to: Drowsy Maggie (11%), Leads to: The Maid Behind The Bar (8%). Transition Analysis: Analysis of 2,783 transitions across 2180 sets suggests that it functions as a highly flexible mid-set connector, with a balanced starter rate of 42.8% and a median set position of 2. Common session transitions include: Leads to: The Wise Maid (18.5%), Leads to: Drowsy Maggie (11%), Leads to: The Maid Behind The Bar (8%). Why it connects: Cooley's sits at the absolute center of the reel network. Written in E Dorian, it is incredibly friendly to button accordions (the B/C system) and provides an open, robust drone on fiddle and pipes. Because it starts on a solid E minor chord but resolves with a bright, major-like A part transition, it acts as a perfect gateway between minor and major keys.

Common Session Pairings: Most frequently leads into The Wise Maid (D major, 18.5%), Drowsy Maggie (D Dorian, 11%), or The Maid Behind The Bar (D major, 8%). It is frequently preceded by jigs modulating into reels, or E minor reels like The Earl's Chair.

Transition Analysis: Analysis of 2,089 transitions across 1761 sets suggests that this tune functions as a highly flexible mid-set connector. Its balanced starter rate (39.0%) and median set position of 2 indicate that musicians regularly use it throughout sets rather than reserving it for a single fixed role. Common session transitions include: Leads to: The Maid Behind The Bar (5.1%), Leads to: The Mountain Road (4.0%), Leads to: Toss The Feathers (3.3%). Transition Analysis: Analysis of 2,089 transitions across 1761 sets suggests that it functions as a highly flexible mid-set connector, with a balanced starter rate of 39.0% and a median set position of 2. Common session transitions include: Leads to: The Maid Behind The Bar (5.1%), Leads to: The Mountain Road (4.0%), Leads to: Toss The Feathers (3.3%). Why it connects: Known for its rhythmic, open-string drone on the fiddle, Drowsy Maggie is typically played in E Dorian, though historical settings exist in D Dorian and E Aeolian. The repetitive A-part gives the backing player extreme harmonic freedom, meaning it can lead into almost any D major or G major reel without clashing.

Common Session Pairings: Its most popular exit transitions are into The Maid Behind The Bar (D major, 5.1%), The Mountain Road (D major, 4.0%), or Toss The Feathers (D Dorian, 3.3%). It is a popular follow-up to Cooley's Reel.

Transition Analysis: Analysis of 1,989 transitions across 1618 sets suggests that this tune functions as a highly flexible mid-set connector. Its balanced starter rate (39.1%) and median set position of 2 indicate that musicians regularly use it throughout sets rather than reserving it for a single fixed role. Common session transitions include: Leads to: The Earl’s Chair (10.2%), Leads to: The Maid Behind The Bar (6.1%), Leads to: The Sally Gardens (5.7%). Transition Analysis: Analysis of 1,989 transitions across 1618 sets suggests that it functions as a highly flexible mid-set connector, with a balanced starter rate of 39.1% and a median set position of 2. Common session transitions include: Leads to: The Earl's Chair (10.2%), Leads to: The Maid Behind The Bar (6.1%), Leads to: The Sally Gardens (5.7%). Why it connects: The Silver Spear is the ultimate D major session starter. Its melody is built on simple arpeggios that sit perfectly under the fingers of whistle and flute players. It has a bright, neutral quality that makes it an excellent bridge between darker Dorian tunes and rhythmic major-key classics.

Common Session Pairings: Slipped most commonly into The Earl's Chair (D major, 10.2%), The Maid Behind The Bar (D major, 6.1%), or The Sally Gardens (G major, 5.7%).

Transition Analysis: Analysis of 1,721 transitions across 1407 sets suggests that this tune functions as a highly flexible mid-set connector. Its balanced starter rate (40.9%) and median set position of 2 indicate that musicians regularly use it throughout sets rather than reserving it for a single fixed role. Common session transitions include: Leads to: The Banshee (5.3%), Leads to: The Sally Gardens (5.3%), Leads to: The Wind That Shakes The Barley (4.9%). Transition Analysis: Analysis of 1,721 transitions across 1407 sets suggests that it functions as a highly flexible mid-set connector, with a balanced starter rate of 40.9% and a median set position of 2. Common session transitions include: Leads to: The Banshee (5.3%), Leads to: The Sally Gardens (5.3%), Leads to: The Wind That Shakes The Barley (4.9%). Why it connects: Also known as The Green Mountain, this classic Clare reel features a rolling, syncopated B part that can easily absorb modulations from G major, D major, and E minor. It sits comfortably on all instruments and acts as a common destination to resolve long, winding sets.

Common Session Pairings: Leads into The Banshee (G major, 5.3%), The Sally Gardens (G major, 5.3%), or The Wind That Shakes The Barley (D major, 4.9%).

Transition Analysis: Analysis of 1,867 transitions across 1401 sets suggests that this tune functions as a highly flexible mid-set connector. Its balanced starter rate (28.8%) and median set position of 2 indicate that musicians regularly use it throughout sets rather than reserving it for a single fixed role. Common session transitions include: Leads to: The Sailor's Bonnet (16.9%), Leads to: The Silver Spear (6.5%), Leads to: The Maid Behind The Bar (4.2%). Transition Analysis: Analysis of 1,867 transitions across 1401 sets suggests that it functions as a highly flexible mid-set connector, with a balanced starter rate of 28.8% and a median set position of 2. Common session transitions include: Leads to: The Sailor's Bonnet (16.9%), Leads to: The Silver Spear (6.5%), Leads to: The Maid Behind The Bar (4.2%). Why it connects: Composed by McMahon, this tune is highly distinct for its descending flute-friendly phrases in the G major scale. It carries a light, airy texture that contrasts melodicly with denser D major fingerings, making it a great pallet cleanser inside a long set.

Common Session Pairings: Transitions brilliantly into The Sailor's Bonnet (D major, 16.9%), The Silver Spear (D major, 6.5%), or The Maid Behind The Bar (D major, 4.2%).

Transition Analysis: Analysis of 1,451 transitions across 1078 sets suggests that this tune functions as a highly flexible mid-set connector. Its balanced starter rate (30.2%) and median set position of 2 indicate that musicians regularly use it throughout sets rather than reserving it for a single fixed role. Transition Analysis: Analysis of 1,451 transitions across 1078 sets suggests that it functions as a highly flexible mid-set connector, with a balanced starter rate of 30.2% and a median set position of 2. Why it connects: Michael Coleman's famous recording established this Sligo classic as a session staple. It has a rolling A-part and a highly repetitive structure that makes it extremely easy to pick up. It acts as a great starter or bridge tune, especially when moving between G and D keys.

Transition Analysis: Analysis of 1,309 transitions across 1053 sets suggests that this tune functions as a highly flexible mid-set connector. Its balanced starter rate (37.5%) and median set position of 2 indicate that musicians regularly use it throughout sets rather than reserving it for a single fixed role. Transition Analysis: Analysis of 1,309 transitions across 1053 sets suggests that it functions as a highly flexible mid-set connector, with a balanced starter rate of 37.5% and a median set position of 2. Why it connects: A bright G major tune that shares its name with the famous poetic song. Its versatility comes from its diatonic clarity. It doesn't feature any tricky accidentals or modal shifts, making it an easy target to resolve to from almost any E minor or D major reel.

Transition Analysis: Analysis of 1,100 transitions across 875 sets suggests that this tune functions as a highly flexible mid-set connector. Its balanced starter rate (47.3%) and median set position of 2 indicate that musicians regularly use it throughout sets rather than reserving it for a single fixed role. Transition Analysis: Analysis of 1,100 transitions across 875 sets suggests that it functions as a highly flexible mid-set connector, with a balanced starter rate of 47.3% and a median set position of 2. Why it connects: Composed by Father P.J. Kelly, this tune's bright G major character and flowing, scalar melody make it a session standard. It features a smooth, singable melody that doesn't push the instrument limits, making it a reliable choice to connect sets.

Transition Analysis: Analysis of 1,256 transitions across 1011 sets suggests that this tune functions as a highly flexible mid-set connector. Its balanced starter rate (34.4%) and median set position of 2 indicate that musicians regularly use it throughout sets rather than reserving it for a single fixed role. Transition Analysis: Analysis of 1,256 transitions across 1011 sets suggests that it functions as a highly flexible mid-set connector, with a balanced starter rate of 34.4% and a median set position of 2. Why it connects: A stunning three-part reel in B minor. Its dramatic minor-key rising Arpeggios offer an excellent contrast to standard major-key tunes. Its versatility is driven by its ability to modulate melodicly into D major, particularly when followed by tunes like The Silver Spear.

Transition Analysis: Analysis of 1,148 transitions across 909 sets suggests that this tune functions as a highly flexible mid-set connector. Its balanced starter rate (38.1%) and median set position of 2 indicate that musicians regularly use it throughout sets rather than reserving it for a single fixed role. Transition Analysis: Analysis of 1,148 transitions across 909 sets suggests that it functions as a highly flexible mid-set connector, with a balanced starter rate of 38.1% and a median set position of 2. Why it connects: Sometimes called Paddy on the Railroad, this rhythmic D major tune sits comfortably on whistle, flute, and fiddle. Its simple, repetitive fingering patterns make it an excellent high-energy filler.

Transition Analysis: Analysis of 1,135 transitions across 911 sets suggests that this tune functions as a highly flexible mid-set connector. Its balanced starter rate (32.7%) and median set position of 2 indicate that musicians regularly use it throughout sets rather than reserving it for a single fixed role. Transition Analysis: Analysis of 1,135 transitions across 911 sets suggests that it functions as a highly flexible mid-set connector, with a balanced starter rate of 32.7% and a median set position of 2. Why it connects: A classic fiddle showpiece characterized by its rapid string-crossing runs. Despite its speed, it is harmonically simple, working well after major key builders or acting as a high-octane set closer.

Transition Analysis: Analysis of 1,110 transitions across 842 sets suggests that this tune functions as a highly flexible mid-set connector. Its balanced starter rate (30.3%) and median set position of 2 indicate that musicians regularly use it throughout sets rather than reserving it for a single fixed role. Transition Analysis: Analysis of 1,110 transitions across 842 sets suggests that it functions as a highly flexible mid-set connector, with a balanced starter rate of 30.3% and a median set position of 2. Why it connects: With its signature syncopated roll on the high E and its winding modal shifts, this tune connects naturally with D major and G major. It's particularly famous for leading into The Wise Maid, which resolves the Dorian tension into bright D major.

Transition Analysis: Analysis of 704 transitions across 639 sets suggests that this tune functions as a primary set opener. Its starter rate of 70.3% and median set position of 1 indicate that musicians predominantly use it to initiate sets rather than as a transitional bridge. Transition Analysis: Analysis of 704 transitions across 639 sets suggests a strong bias toward set-opening positions, consistent with its starter rate of 70.3% and median position of 1. Why it connects: A melodic G major/E minor tune that acts as the starting point for the famous Tarbolton Set. It features a lyrical, swinging melody that sits melodicly on the flute. Its connectivity is slightly lower than other top tunes because of its strong association with that single set, but it remains a crucial session gateway.

Transition Analysis: Analysis of 1,161 transitions across 881 sets suggests that this tune functions as a dedicated set closer. Its low starter rate of 24.3% (appearing as starter in only 214 sets) and median set position of 2 suggest it is typically reserved for resolving sets. Transition Analysis: Analysis of 1,161 transitions across 881 sets suggests a preference for serving as a set closer, as reflected in its starter count of only 214 appearances and median position of 2. Why it connects: Composed by Pakie Duignan, this tune features a melodic shift between B minor tension and D major resolutions. Its open, floating structure makes it a fantastic starter or mid-set bridge, sitting comfortably on all melody instruments.

Transition Analysis: Analysis of 967 transitions across 784 sets suggests that this tune functions as a highly flexible mid-set connector. Its balanced starter rate (35.5%) and median set position of 2 indicate that musicians regularly use it throughout sets rather than reserving it for a single fixed role. Transition Analysis: Analysis of 967 transitions across 784 sets suggests that it functions as a highly flexible mid-set connector, with a balanced starter rate of 35.5% and a median set position of 2. Why it connects: A classic modal reel written in D Mixolydian (though often played with an A minor/Dorian flavor). Its flatted seventh gives it a dark, old-style character that transitions naturally into brighter D major or G major tunes.

Transition Analysis: Analysis of 1,175 transitions across 932 sets suggests that this tune functions as a dedicated set closer. Its low starter rate of 22.4% (appearing as starter in only 209 sets) and median set position of 2 suggest it is typically reserved for resolving sets. Transition Analysis: Analysis of 1,175 transitions across 932 sets suggests a preference for serving as a set closer, as reflected in its starter count of only 209 appearances and median position of 2. Why it connects: Composed by Johnny Harling, this bright D major melody features sweeping arpeggios that mimic classical violin patterns. It is a popular follow-up to Cooley's Reel, acting as a bright resolution to the E Dorian tension.

Transition Analysis: Analysis of 916 transitions across 736 sets suggests that this tune functions as a highly flexible mid-set connector. Its balanced starter rate (33.8%) and median set position of 2 indicate that musicians regularly use it throughout sets rather than reserving it for a single fixed role. Transition Analysis: Analysis of 916 transitions across 736 sets suggests that it functions as a highly flexible mid-set connector, with a balanced starter rate of 33.8% and a median set position of 2. Why it connects: A historically massive tune of Scottish origin that crossed over into Irish, Old-Time, and Bluegrass traditions. Its simple, scale-based G major runs make it a universal language tune, played by musicians of all styles and backgrounds.

Transition Analysis: Analysis of 684 transitions across 551 sets suggests that this tune functions as a highly flexible mid-set connector. Its balanced starter rate (49.2%) and median set position of 2 indicate that musicians regularly use it throughout sets rather than reserving it for a single fixed role. Transition Analysis: Analysis of 684 transitions across 551 sets suggests that it functions as a highly flexible mid-set connector, with a balanced starter rate of 49.2% and a median set position of 2. Why it connects: Composed by Shetland fiddler Ian Burns, this modern G major classic has spread like wildfire. Its bouncy, syncopated rhythm is exceptionally fun to play, making it a great contemporary set addition.

Transition Analysis: Analysis of 850 transitions across 835 sets suggests that this tune functions as a highly flexible mid-set connector. Its balanced starter rate (39.5%) and median set position of 2 indicate that musicians regularly use it throughout sets rather than reserving it for a single fixed role. Transition Analysis: Analysis of 850 transitions across 835 sets suggests that it functions as a highly flexible mid-set connector, with a balanced starter rate of 39.5% and a median set position of 2. Why it connects: Also known as The Glasgow Reel, this rhythmic D minor (natural minor/Aeolian) tune composed by Davey Arthur has a hypnotic, dark groove. Its minor-key tension resolved into major-key follow-ons provides a massive boost of energy to session sets.

Transition Analysis: Analysis of 910 transitions across 765 sets suggests that this tune functions as a highly flexible mid-set connector. Its balanced starter rate (31.0%) and median set position of 2 indicate that musicians regularly use it throughout sets rather than reserving it for a single fixed role. Transition Analysis: Analysis of 910 transitions across 765 sets suggests that it functions as a highly flexible mid-set connector, with a balanced starter rate of 31.0% and a median set position of 2. Why it connects: A French-Canadian/Acadian tune that has become fully naturalized in the Irish tradition. Its clean, classical-sounding D major structure and stepwise runs make it extremely approachable for beginners while remaining satisfying for veterans.

Transition Analysis: Analysis of 595 transitions across 511 sets suggests that this tune functions as a primary set opener. Its starter rate of 61.4% and median set position of 1 indicate that musicians predominantly use it to initiate sets rather than as a transitional bridge. Transition Analysis: Analysis of 595 transitions across 511 sets suggests a strong bias toward set-opening positions, consistent with its starter rate of 61.4% and median position of 1. Why it connects: Composed by Donald Shaw of Capercaillie, this bright G major reel has an infectious, rhythmic flow. Its modern styling sits melodicly on flutes and fiddles, bridging the gap between old-style regional tunes and modern Celtic folk-rock.

Transition Analysis: Analysis of 775 transitions across 594 sets suggests that this tune functions as a highly flexible mid-set connector. Its balanced starter rate (35.0%) and median set position of 2 indicate that musicians regularly use it throughout sets rather than reserving it for a single fixed role. Transition Analysis: Analysis of 775 transitions across 594 sets suggests that it functions as a highly flexible mid-set connector, with a balanced starter rate of 35.0% and a median set position of 2. Why it connects: Usually played in A Dorian or G major, this tune features a rolling, repetitive fingering system that flutists love. Its modal ambiguity (hovering between G major and A minor) makes it a great pivot point to switch key families mid-set.

Transition Analysis: Analysis of 752 transitions across 613 sets suggests that this tune functions as a highly flexible mid-set connector. Its balanced starter rate (38.5%) and median set position of 2 indicate that musicians regularly use it throughout sets rather than reserving it for a single fixed role. Transition Analysis: Analysis of 752 transitions across 613 sets suggests that it functions as a highly flexible mid-set connector, with a balanced starter rate of 38.5% and a median set position of 2. Why it connects: A classic A minor (Aeolian/Dorian) melody that carries a dark, sweeping, traditional atmosphere. Fiddlers love the open E string drones, and it pairs melodicly with bright D major reels like The Silver Spear.

Transition Analysis: Analysis of 785 transitions across 0 sets suggests that this tune functions as a dedicated set closer. Its low starter rate of 0% (appearing as starter in only 0 sets) and median set position of 2 suggest it is typically reserved for resolving sets. Transition Analysis: Analysis of 785 transitions across 0 sets suggests a preference for serving as a set closer, as reflected in its starter count of only 0 appearances and median position of 2. Why it connects: Despite its high popularity, this tune has very limited transition versatility. It is a rhythmic G major melody that sit melodicly on accordion and fiddle. Its connectivity is low because it is almost exclusively played inside the Tarbolton Set, illustrating the "popularity vs. versatility paradox" perfectly.

Transition Analysis: Analysis of 830 transitions across 652 sets suggests that this tune functions as a highly flexible mid-set connector. Its balanced starter rate (28.5%) and median set position of 2 indicate that musicians regularly use it throughout sets rather than reserving it for a single fixed role. Transition Analysis: Analysis of 830 transitions across 652 sets suggests that it functions as a highly flexible mid-set connector, with a balanced starter rate of 28.5% and a median set position of 2. Why it connects: A rhythmic D Dorian (or D Mixolydian) tune that has a massive history. Its repetitive, circular melody has a hypnotic quality that lets musicians play it at a blistering pace. It transitions melodicly from major key builders, acting as a great set-closer.