Sailing In The Lowlands Low. Song lyrics and guitar chords
Written by ballad songwriter P.J. McColl. The piano sheet music and whistle notes are included and are suited to the accordion or flute. The Clancy Brothers recorded a version of this song using slightly different lyrics. PDF of the piano score with chords for downloading.
"Sailing in the Lowlands" is a traditional sea shanty or folk song with roots in maritime culture, often associated with English or Scottish traditions. Like many sea songs, it is steeped in imagery of love, loss, and the dangers of the sea. The "Lowlands" mentioned in the title likely refers to a metaphorical or symbolic place rather than a specific geographic location.
Song Meaning and Themes
Notable Imagery
Legacy and Variations
Song Meaning and Themes
- Love and Separation
- One of the central themes is separation from a loved one, a common experience for sailors embarking on long voyages. The "Lowlands" could symbolize a distant place or a state of longing, reflecting the pain of being apart.
- Tragic Loss
- In some versions, the song tells the story of a sailor dreaming of or encountering the ghost of a lover or a lost crew member. This interpretation highlights themes of death and mourning, which were common in sea shanties due to the dangers sailors faced at sea.
- Superstition and Maritime Lore
- Ghostly or dreamlike imagery often appears in sea songs, symbolizing premonitions or the supernatural. The appearance of a figure in a dream could be interpreted as a warning or a sign of the sailor’s own fate.
- Hope and Longing for Home
- Despite the melancholic tone, some interpretations may express a desire to return home or reunite with a loved one. The "Lowlands" may represent a distant shore or a place of emotional connection.
Notable Imagery
- The Sea: Represents both physical and emotional distance, as well as the unpredictability and danger of a sailor’s life.
- Dream or Vision: The appearance of a lost or loved figure often carries a deep emotional weight, symbolizing unresolved feelings or destiny.
- Lowlands: May symbolize separation, longing, or the unknown—an ambiguous term often used in folk and sea songs.
Legacy and Variations
- "Sailing in the Lowlands" is part of a larger tradition of sea shanties and folk ballads that reflect the hardships and emotional toll of maritime life.
- Like many traditional songs, there are various versions with different lyrics and melodies, each offering a unique take on the story.
- Its haunting, mournful tone and evocative storytelling have kept it alive in folk and maritime music circles.
Sailing In The Lowlands is a traditional Irish folk song that has been recorded and performed by many artists, but perhaps none more famously than The Clancy Brothers. The Clancy Brothers, a group of Irish musicians, have become synonymous with traditional Irish music and have helped to popularize it around the world. Their recording of Sailing In The Lowlands has become a staple in the folk music genre and has captivated audiences for decades. In this thesis, we will explore the history and significance of the song, as well as the impact of The Clancy Brothers' interpretation.
The origins of Sailing In The Lowlands can be traced back to the mid-19th century in Ireland. It is believed to have originated in the counties of Wexford and Waterford, where it was sung by sailors and fishermen. The song tells the story of a young sailor who longs to return home to his love after a long voyage at sea. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of the sailor's journey, from the treacherous lowlands to the open sea, and the yearning for his true love that keeps him going.
The song's lyrics are a testament to the struggles and hardships faced by sailors in the 19th century, as well as the enduring power of love. The lowlands mentioned in the song refer to the treacherous and unpredictable waters that surround the coast of Ireland. These waters were known for their violent storms and strong currents, making them a dangerous place for sailors. The sailor in the song must navigate through these lowlands, facing the constant threat of danger, in order to reach his home and his beloved.
The melody of Sailing In The Lowlands is a hauntingly beautiful one, evoking a sense of longing and melancholy. It is a slow and mournful tune that perfectly captures the mood of the lyrics. The melody is simple and easy to sing, making it a perfect song for communal singing and gatherings. This is perhaps one of the reasons why the song has endured for so long and has been passed down through generations.
The Clancy Brothers' version of Sailing In The Lowlands was first recorded in 1961 and was included in their album The Rising of the Moon. This recording became an instant hit and helped to cement the group's status as one of the most influential Irish folk bands of all time. The Clancy Brothers, consisting of brothers Tom, Paddy, and Liam, along with their friend Tommy Makem, were known for their powerful and emotive performances. Their rendition of Sailing In The Lowlands is no exception, with Liam's deep and soulful voice leading the way, accompanied by the harmonies of the other band members.
The Clancy Brothers' interpretation of Sailing In The Lowlands is a testament to their musical talent and their understanding of traditional Irish music. They stay true to the original melody and lyrics while infusing their own unique style into the song. The addition of traditional Irish instruments, such as the tin whistle and bodhrán, adds to the authenticity of the recording and enhances the overall emotional impact.
The popularity of The Clancy Brothers' version of Sailing In The Lowlands has led to the song being covered by many other artists, both in Ireland and around the world. It has also been featured in numerous films, TV shows, and advertisements, further cementing its place in popular culture. The song has become a symbol of Irish heritage and has been used to celebrate Irish culture and identity.
In conclusion, Sailing In The Lowlands is a traditional Irish folk song that has stood the test of time and has been made famous by The Clancy Brothers. Its haunting melody and poignant lyrics continue to captivate audiences and evoke a sense of nostalgia and longing. The Clancy Brothers' interpretation of the song has helped to bring it to a wider audience and has solidified its place as a beloved Irish folk song. Sailing In The Lowlands is a testament to the enduring power of traditional music and its ability to connect people across time and cultures.
The origins of Sailing In The Lowlands can be traced back to the mid-19th century in Ireland. It is believed to have originated in the counties of Wexford and Waterford, where it was sung by sailors and fishermen. The song tells the story of a young sailor who longs to return home to his love after a long voyage at sea. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of the sailor's journey, from the treacherous lowlands to the open sea, and the yearning for his true love that keeps him going.
The song's lyrics are a testament to the struggles and hardships faced by sailors in the 19th century, as well as the enduring power of love. The lowlands mentioned in the song refer to the treacherous and unpredictable waters that surround the coast of Ireland. These waters were known for their violent storms and strong currents, making them a dangerous place for sailors. The sailor in the song must navigate through these lowlands, facing the constant threat of danger, in order to reach his home and his beloved.
The melody of Sailing In The Lowlands is a hauntingly beautiful one, evoking a sense of longing and melancholy. It is a slow and mournful tune that perfectly captures the mood of the lyrics. The melody is simple and easy to sing, making it a perfect song for communal singing and gatherings. This is perhaps one of the reasons why the song has endured for so long and has been passed down through generations.
The Clancy Brothers' version of Sailing In The Lowlands was first recorded in 1961 and was included in their album The Rising of the Moon. This recording became an instant hit and helped to cement the group's status as one of the most influential Irish folk bands of all time. The Clancy Brothers, consisting of brothers Tom, Paddy, and Liam, along with their friend Tommy Makem, were known for their powerful and emotive performances. Their rendition of Sailing In The Lowlands is no exception, with Liam's deep and soulful voice leading the way, accompanied by the harmonies of the other band members.
The Clancy Brothers' interpretation of Sailing In The Lowlands is a testament to their musical talent and their understanding of traditional Irish music. They stay true to the original melody and lyrics while infusing their own unique style into the song. The addition of traditional Irish instruments, such as the tin whistle and bodhrán, adds to the authenticity of the recording and enhances the overall emotional impact.
The popularity of The Clancy Brothers' version of Sailing In The Lowlands has led to the song being covered by many other artists, both in Ireland and around the world. It has also been featured in numerous films, TV shows, and advertisements, further cementing its place in popular culture. The song has become a symbol of Irish heritage and has been used to celebrate Irish culture and identity.
In conclusion, Sailing In The Lowlands is a traditional Irish folk song that has stood the test of time and has been made famous by The Clancy Brothers. Its haunting melody and poignant lyrics continue to captivate audiences and evoke a sense of nostalgia and longing. The Clancy Brothers' interpretation of the song has helped to bring it to a wider audience and has solidified its place as a beloved Irish folk song. Sailing In The Lowlands is a testament to the enduring power of traditional music and its ability to connect people across time and cultures.
Sailing In The Lowlands Low Song Lyrics And Chords In D Major
[D]Dunmore we quitted,
[G]Michelmas gone[G7] by
Cow[C]hides and wool and live[Am] car[D]go
[G]Twenty young wild geese
Ready fledged to fly
Sailing for the [D]Lowlands [G]Low,,[G7]
The[C] lowlands [G]low, the [C]low[D]lands [G]low
Sailing for the [D]lowlands [G]low
Shaun Paor's the skipper
From the church of Crook
Peary keeps log for his father
Crew all from Bannow
Fethard and the Hook
Sailing for the Lowlands low
These twenty wild geese
Gave Queen Anne the slip
Crossing to Louis in Flanders
He and Jack Malbrook
Both are in a grip
Fighting in the Lowlands Low
Close lay a rover
Off the Isle of Wight
Either a Salee or Saxon!
Out through the sea mist
We bade them goodnight
Sailing for the Lowlands Low
Ready with priming,
We'd our galliot gun
Muskets and pikes in good order
We should be riddled,
Captives would be none
Death! or else the Lowlands low
Pray Holy Brendan,
Turk nor Algerine
Dutchman nor Saxon may sink us!
We'll bring Geneva,
Sack and Rhenish wines
Safely from the lowlands low
[D]Dunmore we quitted,
[G]Michelmas gone[G7] by
Cow[C]hides and wool and live[Am] car[D]go
[G]Twenty young wild geese
Ready fledged to fly
Sailing for the [D]Lowlands [G]Low,,[G7]
The[C] lowlands [G]low, the [C]low[D]lands [G]low
Sailing for the [D]lowlands [G]low
Shaun Paor's the skipper
From the church of Crook
Peary keeps log for his father
Crew all from Bannow
Fethard and the Hook
Sailing for the Lowlands low
These twenty wild geese
Gave Queen Anne the slip
Crossing to Louis in Flanders
He and Jack Malbrook
Both are in a grip
Fighting in the Lowlands Low
Close lay a rover
Off the Isle of Wight
Either a Salee or Saxon!
Out through the sea mist
We bade them goodnight
Sailing for the Lowlands Low
Ready with priming,
We'd our galliot gun
Muskets and pikes in good order
We should be riddled,
Captives would be none
Death! or else the Lowlands low
Pray Holy Brendan,
Turk nor Algerine
Dutchman nor Saxon may sink us!
We'll bring Geneva,
Sack and Rhenish wines
Safely from the lowlands low
Chords in the key of C
[G]Dunmore we quitted,
[C]Michelmas gone[C7] by
Cow[F]hides and wool and live[Dm] car[G]go
[C]Twenty young wild geese
Ready fledged to fly
Sailing for the [G]Lowlands [C]Low,,[C7]
The[F] lowlands [C]low, the [F]low[G]lands [C]low
Sailing for the [G]lowlands [C]low.
Key of A
[E]Dunmore we quitted,
[A]Michelmas gone[A7] by
Cow[D]hides and wool and live[Bm] car[E]go
[A]Twenty young wild geese
Ready fledged to fly
Sailing for the [E]Lowlands [A]Low,,[A7]
The[D] lowlands [A]low, the [D]low[E]lands [A]low
Sailing for the [E]lowlands [A]low
[G]Dunmore we quitted,
[C]Michelmas gone[C7] by
Cow[F]hides and wool and live[Dm] car[G]go
[C]Twenty young wild geese
Ready fledged to fly
Sailing for the [G]Lowlands [C]Low,,[C7]
The[F] lowlands [C]low, the [F]low[G]lands [C]low
Sailing for the [G]lowlands [C]low.
Key of A
[E]Dunmore we quitted,
[A]Michelmas gone[A7] by
Cow[D]hides and wool and live[Bm] car[E]go
[A]Twenty young wild geese
Ready fledged to fly
Sailing for the [E]Lowlands [A]Low,,[A7]
The[D] lowlands [A]low, the [D]low[E]lands [A]low
Sailing for the [E]lowlands [A]low
PDF Of the piano sheet music for download.
| sailing-in-the-lowlands-low-piano-sheet-music.pdf |
Sailing In The Lowlands Sheet Music And Tin Whistle Notes
