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The Boys Of Wexford Tin Whistle / Banjo / Mandolin TAB

A traditional Irish rebel song relating to the 1798 rebelling, recorded by The Wolfe Tones. The sheet music is in the key of G Major with a time signature of 4/4 ..
Song Meaning
"The Boys of Wexford"
is a traditional Irish ballad that commemorates the Wexford Rebellion of 1798, a key uprising during the broader Irish Rebellion of 1798 led by the United Irishmen. The song is a tribute to the men of Wexford who fought valiantly against British rule in their pursuit of Irish independence. Here’s a deeper look at its meaning and themes:

1. Historical Context: The Wexford Rebellion
  • The rebellion in Wexford was one of the most intense and well-organized parts of the 1798 Irish Rebellion. The United Irishmen, inspired by the ideals of the French Revolution and frustrated by British oppression, sought to create an independent Irish republic.
  • Wexford became a stronghold for the rebels, and significant battles were fought in the region, including those at Vinegar Hill and New Ross. Although ultimately unsuccessful, the rebellion left a lasting legacy in Irish history.

2. Pride in the Fighting Spirit
  • The song celebrates the bravery, determination, and sacrifice of the men who fought in Wexford. Lines like "We are the boys of Wexford, who fought with heart and hand" express deep pride in their courage and willingness to risk their lives for the cause of Irish freedom.
  • This pride reflects a common theme in Irish rebel music, which often honors those who stood up against British rule despite overwhelming odds.

3. Sacrifice and Loss
  • The song also alludes to the struggles and losses experienced during the rebellion. Many Wexford rebels lost their lives or were subjected to brutal reprisals, but their sacrifices are depicted as noble and meaningful.
  • The tone of the song is both celebratory and somber, reflecting the complex emotions surrounding the rebellion’s outcome.

4. Unity and Patriotism
  • The song emphasizes a sense of unity and brotherhood among the Wexford rebels, a key aspect of the 1798 uprising. The phrase "with heart and hand" suggests a shared passion and dedication to the cause of Irish freedom.
  • This theme of unity continues to resonate in Irish nationalist movements and music.

5. Symbol of National Resistance
  • Over time, "The Boys of Wexford" has come to symbolize not just the Wexford Rebellion but the broader Irish struggle for self-determination. The song is often performed at commemorative events, particularly those honoring the 1798 Rebellion.
  • Its enduring popularity speaks to its importance in Irish folk and nationalist traditions.

6. Musical Legacy
  • "The Boys of Wexford" has been performed by many Irish folk singers and groups, including The Clancy Brothers and The Wolfe Tones, helping to keep the memory of the Wexford Rebellion alive in Irish cultural consciousness.

Summary"The Boys of Wexford" is a proud and emotional tribute to the men who fought in the Wexford Rebellion of 1798. Celebrating themes of courage, sacrifice, unity, and the longing for Irish independence, the song remains an enduring part of Irish rebel and folk music, keeping the memory of those events alive for future generations.
The boys of Wexford sheet music
boys of wexford tin whistle sheet music
The boys of Wexford sheet music for Tin Whistle
the boys of wexford banjo tab
The boys of Wexford banjo tab
​​Below is the list of sheet music and tin whistle songs that are in my ebooks. This is the largest collection of tin whistle songs ever put together.[over 900 songs ] Including folk, pop and trad tunes plus German And French songs along with Christmas Carols.
All of the sheet music tabs have been made as easy to play as was possible.
​The price of the ebooks is €7.50 All the songs have lyrics.
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The Boys Of Wexford Lyrics And Chords
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