Thursday 11 November 2010
Tune of the Day: Tam Lin
Traditional Irish reel
The composition of this reel is credited to Donegal singer Davey Arthur, former member of the group The Furey Brothers who is now following a solo career. Rumor has it that it was later renamed as “The Howling Wind” by accordion player Paddy O'Brien because he liked the tune, but not the name, which derives from a legendary ballad originating from the Scottish Borders. In fact, O'Brien's version is a somewhat altered development of Arthur's original. Currently the melody has currency with many musicians who play for Irish step-dancing competitions, and is also referred to as “The Glasgow Reel”.