Lady Anne Montgomery

Notes

“Lady Anne Montgomery” is one of the most popular reels in the Irish tradition, composed by the legendary Sligo fiddler Michael Coleman in the early 20th century. While it is named after an aristocrat, the tune itself is pure “people’s music”—straightforward, driving, and immensely satisfying to play in a crowded session. It is almost always played in the key of D Major, making it a bright and resonant “showpiece” for the fiddle.

As a 4/4 reel, it is known for its “square” and balanced structure, making it a favorite for dancers because the rhythm is so dependable and clear.

• The Feel: It is a “happy” reel. It lacks the melancholy of some minor-key tunes and instead focuses on a feeling of forward motion. It is often played at a moderate-to-fast tempo, where the melody notes can really “pop” against the open strings of the instrument.

• The Melody: The A-part is grounding and features a signature rhythmic “bounce” on the lower strings. The B-part climbs into the higher register of the D and A strings, providing a lovely melodic contrast that feels like a conversation between two voices.

• The Style: It is a quintessentially “Sligo-style” tune, meaning it sounds best when played with a bit of “lift” and crisp ornamentation (like rolls and triplets) that add texture to the simple melodic line.