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Notes
The Cincinnati Hornpipe is a classic American fiddle tune that dates back to the mid-19th century. Like many hornpipes of that era, it is characterized by its dotted rhythms and a formal, melodic structure that demands precision and clean execution.
The tune is often associated with the legendary fiddler Ryan’s Mammoth Collection (1883), which helped standardize many of the tunes played in the American Northeast and beyond. It is typically played in the key of D major or G major, and it features the characteristic “hop” or “bounce” that distinguishes a hornpipe from a standard reel. Because of its elegant phrasing and rhythmic complexity, it has become a popular choice for fiddle contests and instructional pieces, particularly in the Texas-style and Old-Time traditions.
Whether played at a steady dance tempo or as a fast, technical showcase, the Cincinnati Hornpipe remains a quintessential piece of the American traditional music heritage.