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Notes
“Bonaparte Crossing the Rhine” is one of the most beloved “march” tunes in the traditional repertoire, shared widely across Irish, Scottish, and American Old-Time traditions. It is a tune with a proud, steady character that commemorates Napoleon Bonaparte’s 1796 Italian campaign (or, as some legends suggest, his retreat from Moscow—the history is as “crooked” as some folk tunes!).
As a march, it isn’t meant for a fast, frantic dance; instead, it has a “walking” tempo that feels dignified and resolute.
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The Feel: It is played with a strong, rhythmic pulse. The melody is “crisp,” with very clear, deliberate notes that mimic the sound of a military fife and drum corps.
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The Key: It is almost universally played in D Major, which gives it a bright, triumphant sound that carries well over long distances—perfect for a march.
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The Structure: The melody is famously catchy and symmetrical. The A-part feels like a steady climb, while the B-part has a more expansive, “wide-open” feel before marching back down to a solid resolution.