Learning the Waltz, Sí Bheag Sí Mhór (by Turlough O’Carolan)

In this video I introduce the waltz, Sí Bheag Sí Mhór for our D Whistles.

This waltz is likely the first of Turlough O’Carolan’s compositions. Sí Bheag Sí Mhór means “small fairy hill big fairy hill.” This is a delightful waltz to learn and play.

The inspiration for this waltz was a local tale in the area where O’Carolan was staying with his first benefactor. The tale was of a battle between two fairy kingdoms. The two mounds were the ruins of the two kingdoms as well as the burial mounds.

Select the video on the right to view my expression of the tune.

Select Download to access a pdf of the music and tabs.