The Minstrel Boy✧
A proud, singing march with a broad range and a few crisp cuts.
Sheet music
Tap a staff note or finger tab to hear it.
A · first time
A · second time
B · lift the melody
A · return
D whistle · G major · 4/4 · 100 BPM · + upper octave
A · first time
A · second time
B · lift the melody
A · return
Lyrics
Thomas Moore · Irish Melodies (1813)
The minstrel boy to the war is gone, In the ranks of death you’ll find him; His father’s sword he has girded on, And his wild harp slung behind him. “Land of song!” said the warrior bard, “Though all the world betrays thee, One sword, at least, thy rights shall guard, One faithful harp shall praise thee!”
The minstrel fell! but the foeman’s chain Could not bring his proud soul under; The harp he loved ne’er spoke again, For he tore its chords asunder; And said, “No chains shall sully thee, Thou soul of love and bravery! Thy songs were made for the pure and free, They shall never sound in slavery.”
About this tune
Thomas Moore wrote The Minstrel Boy for his Irish Melodies, setting the words to the air The Moreen. A young musician carries his harp into battle, where it becomes a symbol of a spirit that will not serve a conqueror.
The song has also lived on as a ceremonial march. Its dotted rhythms give it a measured stride, while the rising melody lends the story dignity and resolve.
Performances
Watch musicians play this tune on tin whistle. Keys and arrangements may differ from the tabs above.
The Minstrel Boy on whistle
Scott’s Low D Whistle Journey
A low-whistle play-along and lesson exploring the traditional march.
Watch on YouTube — The Minstrel Boy on whistle by Scott’s Low D Whistle Journey (opens in a new tab) ↗