The Maid behind the bar
Key: D Major | Meter: | Tempo: BPM
Key: D Major | Meter: | Tempo: BPM
ABC length: 230 
X: 1
T: The Maid Behind The Bar
R: reel
M: 4/4
L: 1/8
K: Dmaj
|:FAAB AFED|FAAB ABde|fBBA Bcde|fBBA BcdA|
FAAB AFED|FAAB ABde|fBBA BcdB|AFEF D4:|
|:faab afde|fdad fd d2|efga beef|gebe gfeg|
fgaf bfaf|defd e2 de|fBBA BcdB|AFEF D4:|

Overview

The Maid Behind the Bar is one of the most widely played Irish reels and is considered a session standard. It is commonly heard in traditional music sessions across Ireland, the UK, Europe, North America, and beyond.

The tune is usually played in D Major and is known for its flowing melodic lines, strong rhythmic drive, and memorable phrases. It works well at a variety of tempos, making it suitable for both learning sessions and more advanced performances.

History

Like many traditional Irish dance tunes, the precise origins of The Maid Behind the Bar are uncertain. The melody has been passed down through generations of musicians and appears in numerous tune collections and recordings.

Over time it has become firmly established in the core repertoire of Irish traditional music and is frequently included in teaching materials, tune books, workshops, and session tune lists.

Learning the Tune

For players learning the tune:

  • Focus on maintaining a steady reel rhythm before adding ornamentation.
  • The tune contains several repeating patterns which make it easier to memorise.
  • Pay attention to the lift and phrasing rather than simply playing the notes.
  • Flute, whistle and fiddle players often add cuts, rolls and other ornaments once the melody is comfortable.

Although technically approachable, the tune rewards careful attention to timing and expression.

Session Notes

At The Highworth Sessions, The Maid Behind the Bar is considered a useful core repertoire tune. Newer players will often encounter it in mixed-speed sessions, while experienced players frequently use it as part of a reel set.

Because it is so widely known, it can be an excellent tune to learn if you are looking to join sessions elsewhere.

This tune is often heard alongside:

  • The Silver Spear
  • Cooley’s Reel
  • The Wise Maid
  • The Wind That Shakes the Barley
  • The Mountain Road

Further Listening

Listen to recordings by leading Irish traditional musicians to hear different approaches to tempo, phrasing, ornamentation and tune pairing.

Happy playing!