Comin’ thro’ the Rye is a song written by Robert Burns (1759-96)
Scotland’s most famous poet. Although Burns wrote the words it is not known
who wrote the tune or where Burns first heard it. Originally the tune was played
in 4/4 and it is in this timing that the words fit the tune best. Dance musicians
will alter the timing of a tune to fit the dance. Another example of a tune
often adapted in this way is Burns' My Love is like a Red Red Rose, usually
sung in 4/4, but danced to in 3/4!
Listen to the melody - it has
32 bars.
The Parts section
contains instrumental parts for a classroom arrangement of Comin’ thro’
the Rye. You could make a set suitable for dancers to do the Lomond Waltz
to by adding My Love is Like a Red Red Rose and Westering Home.
Listen to this
set using
these three tunes (fiddle - Jo Miller, piano - Ian Muir).
Why not try arranging some of the other Scottish and Gaelic waltzes in the Parts
section, or collect some more yourself. Older family members and friends might
have some favorites!
Finally listen to this set
featuring the tunes Lovely Stornaway and Leaving Lismor (fiddle
- Jo Miller, piano - Ian Muir).