25 Irish Slip Jigs Every Session Musician Should Learn
For absolute beginners, The Kesh Jig (G major, ID: 55) is the most universal and popular starter jig, appearing in 1,485 unique session sets. It has simple scalar movements and minimal finger jumps. Other highly recommended starter jigs are Out On The Ocean (G major, ID: 108) and Lilting Banshee, The (A dorian, ID: 60).
Data-Backed Repertoire: We analyzed session lists, user bookmarks, and album recordings to find the 25 jigs actually played at real pub sessions, saving you from learning obscure tunes.
1. Sourcing and Methodology
Entering the world of traditional Irish music can be overwhelming. While typical double jigs in 6/8 are very common, the slip jig—with its elegant, flowing 9/8 time signature (counted in three groups of three: 1-2-3, 4-5-6, 7-8-9)—presents a unique rhythmic lilt that is highly satisfying to master. For beginners, identifying the core session slip jigs from the thousands of cataloged tunes can be a challenge.
To address this, we queried the Trad Tune Explorer database to identify the 25 slip jigs that are actually played in sessions around the globe. We filtered the database by two main criteria:
- Session Prevalence (Popularity): Ranked by how many custom setlists contain the tune, reflecting real-world popularity in local sessions.
- Playability (Melodic Simplicity): We analyzed the physical layout and fingerings on fiddle, flute, and tin whistle, grouping them into Easy or Intermediate categories based on scale jumps and string crossings.
The result is a hand-picked, data-backed list of 25 slip jigs. Mastering these tunes will give you a solid foundation, ensuring you can confidently join in on the most common sets in sessions anywhere in the world.
2. Interactive Practice Checklist & Side-by-Side Comparison
| Learned | Rank | Tune Name | Key | Difficulty | Session Sets | Recordings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Eminor | Easy | 1,041 | 136 | ||
| 2 | Edorian | Easy | 576 | 89 | ||
| 3 | Eminor | Intermediate | 538 | 127 | ||
| 4 | Amajor | Intermediate | 446 | 53 | ||
| 5 | Adorian | Easy | 419 | 131 | ||
| 6 | Dmajor | Intermediate | 385 | 120 | ||
| 7 | Dmajor | Easy | 294 | 22 | ||
| 8 | Gmajor | Intermediate | 230 | 100 | ||
| 9 | Adorian | Intermediate | 203 | 112 | ||
| 10 | Amajor | Intermediate | 202 | 11 | ||
| 11 | Adorian | Easy | 190 | 89 | ||
| 12 | Bminor | Easy | 171 | 56 | ||
| 13 | Gmajor | Easy | 150 | 82 | ||
| 14 | Gmajor | Intermediate | 148 | 86 | ||
| 15 | Gmajor | Intermediate | 145 | 42 | ||
| 16 | Dmajor | Easy | 145 | 102 | ||
| 17 | Bminor | Intermediate | 138 | 66 | ||
| 18 | Edorian | Easy | 124 | 51 | ||
| 19 | Eminor | Intermediate | 123 | 51 | ||
| 20 | Gmajor | Easy | 120 | 30 | ||
| 21 | Eminor | Intermediate | 88 | 9 | ||
| 22 | Dmajor | Intermediate | 72 | 73 | ||
| 23 | Gmajor | Easy | 70 | 57 | ||
| 24 | Gmajor | Easy | 66 | 48 | ||
| 25 | Gmajor | Intermediate | 64 | 10 |
3. The 25 Irish Slip Jigs to Learn
Here is the detailed breakdown of the 25 essential slip jigs, ranked by their session occurrence. Each tune includes statistics from the database, landmark recordings to listen to, and specific tips for learning it.
1.
Butterfly, The
SLIP JIG | KEY: Eminor | ID: 10
History: Composed by Dublin fiddler Tommy Potts, who named it after watching a butterfly fly in his garden. He based the melody's flighty, modal movements on the butterfly's wings. E minor/Dorian is the standard key.
Why Learn It: This is the most famous slip jig in the world. It has a beautiful, soaring melody that flows naturally on fiddle, whistle, and flute, making it a universal session anthem.
Musical Traits & Tips: It features long, lyrical phrases and scalar runs. Wind players should plan breathing spots carefully. Fiddlers can use open-string resonance to create a rich drone effect.
In Ireland by James Galway And The Chieftains (Track 7), Kevin Burke In Concert by Kevin Burke (Track 1), The Butterfly by Martin Hayes and Brooklyn Rider (Track 4)
Common Session Pairings:
Played after: A Fig For A
Kiss (x99), Kid On The
Mountain, The (x53), Morrison’s (x40)
Played before: Kid On The
Mountain, The (x160), A Fig For A
Kiss (x132), Morrison’s (x49)
2.
A Fig For A Kiss
SLIP JIG | KEY: Edorian | ID: 750
History: A traditional E Dorian slip jig. Its title comes from an old Irish proverb suggesting a fig is a fair exchange for a kiss. It has been a session staple since the early recordings of the 20th century.
Why Learn It: Extremely catchy and easy to learn. It lies very naturally under the fingers and is a perfect tune for beginners looking to master the 9/8 slip jig rhythm.
Musical Traits & Tips: Features repeated leaps between the low and high octaves. Whistle players can use clean cuts to define the triplet groupings. Fiddlers should focus on a light, bouncy bowing style.
The Poison Glen (Gleann Nimhe) by Altan (Track 1), At Complete Ease by John Carty And Brian Rooney (Track 10), Shadows On Stone by Matt Molloy (Track 7)
Common Session Pairings:
Played after: Butterfly, The
(x132), Kid On The Mountain, The (x32), Na
Ceannabháin Bhána (x19)
Played before: Butterfly, The
(x99), Hardiman The Fiddler (x49), Kid On The Mountain, The (x34)
3.
Kid On The Mountain, The
SLIP JIG | KEY: Eminor | ID: 52
History: A legendary traditional E minor slip jig in five parts. It is one of the oldest and most respected slip jigs in the tradition, often played as a showcase piece.
Why Learn It: Learning this tune is a rite of passage. Its five-part structure provides a wonderful journey through different registers, making it highly rewarding to play in sets.
Musical Traits & Tips: Shifts registers across parts. Pay close attention to the timing of the G natural and F# notes. Wind players can use tight cranns and cuts to ornament the repeated notes.
Into the Loam by Cormac Begley and Liam O’Connor (Track 4), A Chapter in History: 30 Years of Joe ’Banjo’ Burke, Live. Volume II: Live from Eagle Tavern. by Joe Burke (Track 21), A Tribute To Andy McGann by Joe Burke, Brian Conway And Felix Dolan (Track 12)
Common Session Pairings:
Played after: Butterfly, The
(x160), Foxhunter, The (x36), A Fig For A Kiss (x34)
Played before: An Phis
Fhliuch (x55), Butterfly, The
(x53), Foxhunter, The (x35)
4.
Farewell To Whalley Range
SLIP JIG | KEY: Amajor | ID: 2410
History: Composed by the legendary Manchester flute and pipe player Michael McGoldrick, who named it after a district in Manchester. Played in F# minor/Dorian.
Why Learn It: A hauntingly beautiful modern slip jig that has quickly become a modern classic. Its minor-key lilt provides a stunning contrast in sets.
Musical Traits & Tips: Requires good finger agility and precise breath control due to its rolling, syncopated phrases. Focus on clean tonguing and crisp ornamentation in the upper register.
Across The Glen by Ailbe Grace & Liam Flanagan with Mick O’Connor (Track 4), Time to Dance 2 (disc one) by Cathal Hayden, Mark Mohan, Brian McGrath, Máirtín O’Connor, Alan Kelly & Arty McGlynn (Track 4), Upside Down by Sharon Shannon, Mike McGoldrick, Jim Murray, Dezi Donnelly (Track 4)
Common Session Pairings:
Played after: Soggy’s
(x63), Cock And The Hen, The (x42), Kid On The Mountain, The (x23)
Played before: Roddy McDonald’s
Fancy (x31), Cock And The Hen,
The (x22), Humours Of Whiskey,
The (x17)
5.
Hardiman The Fiddler
SLIP JIG | KEY: Adorian | ID: 48
History: A traditional A Dorian slip jig named after a celebrated 19th-century traditional fiddle player. It has a driving, modal character.
Why Learn It: An essential session standard. It is incredibly fun to play and is commonly paired with other Dorian or G major slip jigs.
Musical Traits & Tips: Features a syncopated A-part and a lifting B-part. Focus on clean fingering transitions. Keep the rhythm steady and emphasize the 9/8 backbeats.
Across The Glen by Ailbe Grace & Liam Flanagan with Mick O’Connor (Track 4), Time to Dance 2 (disc two) by Cathal Hayden, Mark Mohan, Brian McGrath, Máirtín O’Connor, Alan Kelly & Arty McGlynn (Track 4), Jigs, Reels & Rock n’ Roll by Frankie Gavin & DeDannan (Track 9)
Common Session Pairings:
Played after: A Fig For A
Kiss (x49), Moll Roe (x47), Kid On The Mountain, The (x22)
Played before: Kid On The
Mountain, The (x25), A Fig For A
Kiss (x17), Drops Of Brandy,
The (x16)
6.
Foxhunter, The
SLIP JIG | KEY: Dmajor | ID: 482
History: A traditional D major slip jig in four parts. The name refers to the huntsmen of Irish folklore, and the melody has a driving, galloping rhythm.
Why Learn It: An extremely high-energy tune that is a favorite set closer. Its repetitive, scalar structure makes it easy to build speed and power.
Musical Traits & Tips: Constructed of repetitive scalar runs. Focus on maintaining a strong, steady pulse without rushing. Fiddlers can use driving, slurred bowings to mimic the chase.
Jiggin’ The Blues by Frankie Gavin, Rick Epping And Tim Edey (Track 8), The Leg Of The Duck by Joe Burke, Michael Cooney And Noreen Donoghue (Track 16), Redwood by Lúnasa (Track 7)
Common Session Pairings:
Played after: Drops Of Brandy,
The (x47), Snowy Path, The
(x39), Butterfly, The (x37)
Played before: Butterfly, The
(x37), Kid On The Mountain, The (x36), Snowy Path, The (x18)
7.
Snowy Path, The
SLIP JIG | KEY: Dmajor | ID: 104
History: Composed by the famous Donegal fiddler Tommy Peoples, who named it after a snowy walk in his native Donegal. Played in D major.
Why Learn It: A modern classic that flows beautifully. Its Donegal-style lift and bright melody make it a popular addition to session repertoires.
Musical Traits & Tips: Features wide leaps and beautiful scalar descents. Focus on playing the melody with a light, bouncy feel. Fiddlers can employ Peoples-style triplet cuts.
Best Of 1987-1993 by Altan (Track 13), Harvest Storm by Altan (Track 6), Once Again (1987-1993) by Altan (Track 20)
Common Session Pairings:
Played after: Butterfly, The
(x30), A Fig For A Kiss (x27), Foxhunter, The (x18)
Played before: Foxhunter, The
(x39), Butterfly, The (x36), A Fig For A Kiss (x11)
8.
An Phis Fhliuch
SLIP JIG | KEY: Gmajor | ID: 879
History: Also known as 'The Choice Wife' or 'The Wet P&ss', this traditional G major/Mixolydian slip jig is a classic piping tune with deep roots.
Why Learn It: A majestic, modal tune that sounds fantastic on pipes, flute, and fiddle. It is highly respected among traditional players.
Musical Traits & Tips: Contains modal shifts between major and minor feels. Pay close attention to the C natural fingering. Keep the rolls and triplets crisp and well-timed.
The Given Note by Liam O’Flynn (Track 1), The Irish Concertina by Noel Hill (Track 2), The Irish Concertina 3: Live in New York by Noel Hill (Track 12)
Common Session Pairings:
Played after: Kid On The
Mountain, The (x55), A Fig For A
Kiss (x11), Off To California (x8)
Played before: Hardiman The
Fiddler (x17), Kid On The
Mountain, The (x14), Drops Of Brandy,
The (x12)
9.
Rocky Road To Dublin, The
SLIP JIG | KEY: Adorian | ID: 593
History: Popularized by the famous traditional song of the same name. Key: A Dorian. It has a driving, marching feel that reflects the song's story of travel.
Why Learn It: Highly recognizable and great for sing-alongs. It is a fantastic tune to drive the rhythm and build excitement in a set.
Musical Traits & Tips: Features a syncopated, driving rhythm. Wind players can use strong tonguing to emphasize the beats, while fiddlers can use short, punchy bows.
Chronicles : 60 Years Of The Chieftains by The Chieftains (Track 2), The Long Black Veil by The Chieftains (Track 13), The Wide World Over by The Chieftains (Track 18)
Common Session Pairings:
Played after: Butterfly, The
(x37), Foxhunter, The (x13), Kid On The Mountain, The (x12)
Played before: Butterfly, The
(x23), Kid On The Mountain, The (x16), Dusty Windowsills (x10)
10.
Soggy’s
SLIP JIG | KEY: Amajor | ID: 9196
History: Composed by Scottish accordion legend Phil Cunningham. The title refers to a nickname. Played in A major, it has become a modern favorite.
Why Learn It: A joyful, modern slip jig with a Scottish bounce. It is highly popular in modern sessions and fits perfectly into contemporary sets.
Musical Traits & Tips: Contains syncopated runs in A major. Focus on clean fingerings and crisp triplets in the upper register. Keep the rhythm light and danceable.
A Lovely Madness by Beoga (Track 2), Live at 10 by Beoga (Track 4), Live At Stockfisch Studio by Beoga (Track 10)
Common Session Pairings:
Played after: Farewell To Whalley
Range (x11), Liam Childs (x8)
Played before: Farewell To Whalley
Range (x63), Waterboogie (x27), Reel Of Sceachóg, The (x14)
11.
Elizabeth
Kelly’s Delight
SLIP JIG | KEY: Adorian | ID: 953
History: A traditional A Dorian slip jig. Named after Elizabeth Kelly, a figure from traditional folklore. It is a very old melody.
Why Learn It: An excellent starter slip jig due to its extremely simple, repetitive phrases. It is easy to memorize and plays very naturally.
Musical Traits & Tips: Features scalar steps and simple leaps. Focus on executing clean cuts on the high A and G notes to add a lift to the melody.
The Merry Sisters Of Fate by Lúnasa (Track 1), Under The Moon by Martin Hayes (Track 6), Athchuairt by Paddy Glackin And Micheal O Domhnaill (Track 1)
Common Session Pairings:
Played after: Humours Of Kiltyclogher,
The (x10), Hardiman The
Fiddler (x7), Kitty Come Down From
Limerick (x6)
Played before: Humours Of Kiltyclogher,
The (x15), Farewell To Whalley
Range (x12), Jimmy Ward’s (x9)
12.
Humours Of Whiskey, The
SLIP JIG | KEY: Bminor | ID: 46
History: A traditional D Mixolydian slip jig celebrating Ireland's national drink. It has a sweet, modal melody that is highly expressive.
Why Learn It: A beautiful, old-style slip jig that encourages expressive playing. It is commonly played in Clare-style slow sessions.
Musical Traits & Tips: Features a mix of major and minor notes. Use slides and subtle vibrato to express the 'lonesome' character of the melody.
Another Sky by Altan (Track 7), The Yew & The Orchard by Cillian Vallely and David Doocey (Track 9), Solas by Solas (Track 10)
Common Session Pairings:
Played after: Cock And The Hen,
The (x23), Farewell To Whalley
Range (x17), Chicago, The (x10)
Played before: Leslie’s March (x16), Butterfly, The (x12), Farewell To Whalley Range (x12)
13.
Na
Ceannabháin Bhána
SLIP JIG | KEY: Gmajor | ID: 612
History: A traditional G major slip jig, also known as 'The Fair-Haired Cannavans'. It is associated with an old Irish Gaelic song.
Why Learn It: A classic G major session tune. Its rolling lilt is perfect for dancing and it flows naturally on all instruments.
Musical Traits & Tips: Features scalar runs in G major. Wind players should plan breaths carefully. Fiddlers can use double-stops to enrich the backing sound.
Time to Dance 2 (disc one) by Cathal Hayden, Mark Mohan, Brian McGrath, Máirtín O’Connor, Alan Kelly & Arty McGlynn (Track 5), Spirit by Dervish (Track 2), The Fire Aflame by Matt Molloy, Seán Keane, Liam O’Flynn (Track 3)
Common Session Pairings:
Played after: A Fig For A
Kiss (x19), Butterfly, The
(x15), Black Rogue, The (x15)
Played before: A Fig For A
Kiss (x19), Redican’s
Mother (x13), Humours Of
Ballyloughlin, The (x11)
14.
Give Us A Drink Of Water
SLIP JIG | KEY: Gmajor | ID: 635
History: A traditional G major slip jig whose title translates to an old session hospitality request. Recorded by celebrated heritage groups.
Why Learn It: An essential session standard. Its simple, scalar movements make it highly accessible, yet it drives beautifully at speed.
Musical Traits & Tips: Features straightforward scalar runs. Whistle players can use cuts to highlight the pulse. Keep the tempo steady and avoid rushing.
Lúnasa by Lúnasa (Track 11), Contentment Is Wealth by Matt Molloy And Sean Keane (Track 10), Hidden Ground by Paddy Glackin, Jolyon Jackson (Track 5)
Common Session Pairings:
Played after: Kesh, The (x19), A Fig For A Kiss (x12), Hardiman The Fiddler (x11)
Played before: Flower Of The Flock,
The (x13), A Fig For A
Kiss (x9), Hardiman The
Fiddler (x7)
15.
Boys Of Ballisodare, The
SLIP JIG | KEY: Gmajor | ID: 1340
History: A traditional G major/Mixolydian slip jig named after the Sligo town of Ballisodare. It has been a session staple for over a century.
Why Learn It: A classic Sligo-style slip jig. It has a wonderful, rolling lift that is highly popular among whistle and fiddle players.
Musical Traits & Tips: Features syncopated leaps and driving scalar passages. Focus on the transition between the parts to maintain a steady momentum.
Yeh, That’s All It Is by John Carty (Track 4), Lúnasa by Lúnasa (Track 5), The Irish Concertina Two by Noel Hill (Track 10)
Common Session Pairings:
Played after: Comb Your Hair And
Curl It (x38), Butterfly, The
(x22), Foxhunter, The (x13)
Played before: Butterfly, The
(x20), Coleman’s (x10), A Fig For A Kiss (x10)
16.
Drops Of Brandy, The
SLIP JIG | KEY: Dmajor | ID: 388
History: A traditional G major slip jig of English and Irish heritage, celebrating the traditional brandy drink. It is a very old melody.
Why Learn It: A highly recognizable tune that is commonly played for traditional slip jig dances. It is very simple to learn.
Musical Traits & Tips: Features repeated arpeggiated steps. Focus on a light, bouncy rhythm. Whistle players can add cuts on the high G notes.
Time to Dance 2 (disc one) by Cathal Hayden, Mark Mohan, Brian McGrath, Máirtín O’Connor, Alan Kelly & Arty McGlynn (Track 5), Paddy Keenan by Paddy Keenan (Track 2), The Essential Chieftains by The Chieftains (Track 1)
Common Session Pairings:
Played after: Hardiman The
Fiddler (x16), Foxhunter, The
(x12), An Phis Fhliuch (x12)
Played before: Foxhunter, The
(x47), Hardiman The Fiddler (x15), Kid On The Mountain, The (x10)
17.
Cock And The Hen, The
SLIP JIG | KEY: Bminor | ID: 93
History: A traditional B Dorian slip jig. The title refers to the chuckling and clucking sounds of poultry, which the melody playfully mimics.
Why Learn It: A wonderful introduction to playing in B Dorian. The melody is highly engaging and playful, making it a favorite for intermediate players.
Musical Traits & Tips: Features fast, clucking motifs. Watch out for the C# and G natural fingering shifts. Keep the bowing short and crisp on the fiddle.
Live At Johnny Fox’s by Dervish (Track 3), Live In Palma by Dervish (Track 3), Playing With Fire by Dervish (Track 9)
Common Session Pairings:
Played after: Sliabh Russell (x22), Farewell To Whalley Range (x22), Hardiman The Fiddler (x13)
Played before: Farewell To Whalley
Range (x42), Humours Of Whiskey,
The (x23), Foxhunter, The
(x14)
18.
Comb Your Hair And Curl It
SLIP JIG | KEY: Edorian | ID: 1030
History: A traditional E Dorian slip jig. The title refers to a traditional dance preparation routine. It has a bright, driving melody.
Why Learn It: A highly driving session standard that flows very naturally. Its scalar finger patterns make it easy to memorize.
Musical Traits & Tips: Contains straightforward E Dorian scalar movements. Whistle players can use cuts to define the rhythm. Keep the tempo steady.
25th Anniversary Celebration by Altan (Track 14), The Blue Idol by Altan (Track 13), Travelling Show by Dervish (Track 5)
Common Session Pairings:
Played after: Butterfly, The
(x11), Foxhunter, The (x10), Boys Of Ballisodare, The (x10)
Played before: Boys Of
Ballisodare, The (x38), Butterfly, The
(x10), Coleman’s (x8)
19.
Dever The Dancer
SLIP JIG | KEY: Eminor | ID: 148
History: A traditional G major slip jig named after a character in Irish folklore. It has been recorded by numerous celebrated artists.
Why Learn It: A beautiful and fluid G major slip jig that is popular among flute players. It fits perfectly into G major sets.
Musical Traits & Tips: Features a syncopated A-part and a rolling B-part. Focus on clean ornamentation (cuts and strikes) and a legato flow.
At The End Of The Day by Dervish (Track 5), Live In Palma by Dervish (Track 1), Fifty Fiddle Solos by Sean Keane (Track 13)
Common Session Pairings:
Played after: Swaggering Jig,
The (x17), A Fig For A
Kiss (x9), Hardiman The
Fiddler (x7)
Played before: Farewell To Whalley
Range (x15), Kid On The
Mountain, The (x10), Hardiman The
Fiddler (x8)
20.
Swaggering Jig, The
SLIP JIG | KEY: Gmajor | ID: 661
History: A traditional G major slip jig. The title refers to the proud, swaggering gait of the dancers. It is a very old tune.
Why Learn It: A bright and proud melody that is very easy to learn. It is a great tune to introduce the slip jig rhythm to beginners.
Musical Traits & Tips: Features simple G major arpeggios and steps. Keep the bowing light and bouncy, and emphasize the first beat of each triplet.
Harmony Hill by Dervish (Track 4), 1975 by The Bothy Band (Track 1), Afterhours by The Bothy Band (Track 1)
Common Session Pairings:
Played after: Kesh, The (x35), Hardiman The Fiddler (x10), A Fig For A Kiss (x7)
Played before: Flower Of The Flock,
The (x20), Dever The Dancer
(x17), Farewell To Whalley Range (x7)
21.
Garech’s Wedding
SLIP JIG | KEY: Eminor | ID: 2620
History: Composed by Paddy Moloney, the legendary piper of The Chieftains, for Garech de Brun's wedding. Played in G major.
Why Learn It: A modern classic with a beautiful, majestic lift. It is highly popular in contemporary sessions.
Musical Traits & Tips: Features beautiful, expressive lines. Whistle players should focus on clean cuts, while fiddlers can use slides to emphasize the lyricism.
Cotton-Eyed Joe by The Chieftains (Track 10), A Spider In The Hood by Cattle Grid (Track 6), The Road Less Traveled by Danú (Track 7)
Common Session Pairings:
Played after: A Fig For A
Kiss (x13), Butterfly, The
(x7)
Played before: A Fig For A
Kiss (x11), Farewell To Whalley
Range (x8)
22.
Redican’s Mother
SLIP JIG | KEY: Dmajor | ID: 378
History: Composed by the celebrated fiddler and composer Larry Redican. Played in G major, it has become a modern session favorite.
Why Learn It: A exceptionally fluid and sweet melody. Its sophisticated structure makes it a favorite for intermediate players.
Musical Traits & Tips: Contains interesting key jumps and a highly active B-part. Focus on clean fingerings and maintaining a smooth, legato flow.
Decade by Dervish (Track 6), Harmony Hill by Dervish (Track 1), In Good Company - The Very Best Of by Kevin Burke (Track 10)
Common Session Pairings:
Played after: Lost And Found, The (x15), Na
Ceannabháin Bhána (x13), A Fig For A Kiss (x9)
Played before: Apples In Winter (x14), Drops Of Brandy, The (x10), Foxhunter, The (x6)
23.
Moll Roe
SLIP JIG | KEY: Gmajor | ID: 527
History: An old traditional G major slip jig named after Moll Roe, a figure in traditional Irish folklore.
Why Learn It: A classic session tune with a beautiful, old-time lilt. It is very simple to learn and memorize.
Musical Traits & Tips: Features straightforward scalar runs. Whistle players can use cuts to highlight the pulse. Keep the tempo steady.
Time to Dance 2 (disc two) by Cathal Hayden, Mark Mohan, Brian McGrath, Máirtín O’Connor, Alan Kelly & Arty McGlynn (Track 4), Jigs, Reels & Rock n’ Roll by Frankie Gavin & DeDannan (Track 9), The Full Score by Frankie Gavin, Hibernian Rhapsody (Track 14)
Common Session Pairings:
Played after: Hardiman The
Fiddler (x14)
Played before: Hardiman The
Fiddler (x47), Na Ceannabháin
Bhána (x8), Farewell To Whalley
Range (x7)
24.
Dusty Miller, The
SLIP JIG | KEY: Gmajor | ID: 28
History: A traditional G major slip jig that is highly popular across England, Scotland, and Ireland. The title refers to the traditional miller trade.
Why Learn It: A universal session staple. Its catchy melody is easy to learn and is highly popular for dances.
Musical Traits & Tips: Features repeated arpeggiated steps. Focus on a light, bouncy rhythm. Whistle players can add cuts on the high G notes.
The Red Crow by Altan (Track 2), The Fire Aflame by Matt Molloy, Seán Keane, Liam O’Flynn (Track 9), Tony O’Connell and Andy Morrow with Arty McGlynn by Tony O’Connell And Andy Morrow (Track 10)
Common Session Pairings:
Played after: A Fig For A
Kiss (x11)
Played before: Snowy Path, The
(x10), Comb Your Hair And Curl It (x7)
25.
Liam Childs
SLIP JIG | KEY: Gmajor | ID: 13537
History: Composed by fiddle player Brendan Ring. Played in D major, it has become a modern favorite at sessions.
Why Learn It: A modern classic with a fantastic driving energy. It fits perfectly into modern set-building.
Musical Traits & Tips: Features scalar runs and syncopated chord transitions. Pay close attention to the timing of the rolls in the B-part.
The Idle Road by Bríd O’Gorman (Track 12), Chicago Reel by Chicago Reel (Track 12), High Doh by Damian McKee, Gudrun Walther, Aaron Jones (Track 10)
Common Session Pairings:
Played after: Heart Shaped
Wood (x9)
Played before: Soggy’s
(x8), Balkin’ Balkan
(x8)
4. Summary & Next Steps
Learning traditional Irish music is a social, communal journey. The tunes listed here are more than just notes on a page; they are the shared vocabulary of session musicians across the globe. Learning these tunes will not only build your finger strength and rhythmic drive, but it will also open the doors to pubs and sessions wherever your travels take you.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the most popular Irish slip jig?
According to session set list analysis, The Butterfly is the most common session slip jig with 324 unique set combinations. Kid On The Mountain is the most commercially recorded slip jig in the database with 137 album tracks.
What key is most popular for Irish slip jigs?
The most popular keys/modes for traditional Irish slip jigs are G major (like Give Us A Drink Of Water) and E minor/Dorian (like The Butterfly, A Fig For A Kiss, Kid On The Mountain) due to their perfect layout on whistle, flute, and fiddle.
What is the difference between a double jig and a slip jig?
A double jig is in 6/8 time (grouped in triplets: 1-2-3, 4-5-6), whereas a slip jig is in 9/8 time (three groups of three: 1-2-3, 4-5-6, 7-8-9), giving it a more flowing, syncopated lilt.
How should beginners practice learning slip jigs?
Beginners should start by practicing slip jigs slowly, counting the 9 beats (1-2-3, 4-5-6, 7-8-9) and placing a slight emphasis on the first beat of each group to capture the unique slip jig swing (hop-step lilt), and use practice checklists to track progress.
Ready to start practicing? Check out these vital tools across the Trad Tune Explorer: