Wi' A Hundred Pipers Guitar Chords And Lyrics
A Scottish traditional song written by Carlina Nairne which tells of when Bonnie Prince Charlie's army marched into Carlisle and were greeted by a hundred pipers. The youtube video is by Steve McDonald and is one of the finest ever versions, he does an intro. but not on the pipes but on what sounds like a low whistle. The ukulele chords and tin whistle sheet music / mandolin tab is included.
Wi a hundred pipers sheet music mandolin tab with chords
"Wi' A Hundred Pipers" is a traditional Scottish folk song that celebrates Bonnie Prince Charlie and the Jacobite Rising of 1745, a historic attempt by the Jacobites to restore the Stuart monarchy to the British throne. The song is full of pride, bravery, and determination, with imagery of bagpipes leading an army to victory.
Song Meaning and Themes
Notable Lyrics"Wi' a hundred pipers, an' a', an' a',
Wi' a hundred pipers, an' a', an' a',
We'll up and gie them a blaw, a blaw,
Wi' a hundred pipers, an' a', an' a'!"
These lines emphasize the power and unity of the Jacobites, with the pipers serving as a metaphor for the spirit of their cause.
Legacy
Song Meaning and Themes
- Historical Context:
The song refers to Bonnie Prince Charlie’s march south from Scotland to reclaim the throne for his father, James Francis Edward Stuart. The "hundred pipers" are symbolic of the Scottish Highland clans that rallied to his cause. Bagpipes were not just instruments but also symbols of defiance and cultural pride for the Highlanders. - Pride and Defiance:
The song captures the unyielding spirit of the Jacobite soldiers as they advance with their music blaring. The sound of the bagpipes is depicted as a morale booster, giving courage to the soldiers and striking fear into their enemies. - Victory and Optimism:
The lyrics exude a sense of confidence in triumph, although in reality, the Jacobite Rising ended tragically with defeat at the Battle of Culloden. Despite this, the song reflects the enduring hope and loyalty of the Jacobite supporters.
Notable Lyrics"Wi' a hundred pipers, an' a', an' a',
Wi' a hundred pipers, an' a', an' a',
We'll up and gie them a blaw, a blaw,
Wi' a hundred pipers, an' a', an' a'!"
These lines emphasize the power and unity of the Jacobites, with the pipers serving as a metaphor for the spirit of their cause.
Legacy
- The song remains a popular patriotic tune in Scotland, often sung at folk festivals and commemorative events for the Jacobite Rising.
- It is a celebration of Scottish heritage, resilience, and cultural identity, particularly for those who identify with the Jacobite cause.
- The imagery of bagpipes leading an army is iconic in Scottish history and folklore, making this song a cherished part of Scotland's folk music tradition.