Your browser cannot display the PDF inline. Click here to open or download the sheet music.
Notes
“Rollstone Mountain” is a quintessential New England contra dance tune, composed by the influential accordionist and tune-smith Bob McQuillen in the 1970s. McQuillen, a cornerstone of the New Hampshire folk scene, named many of his tunes after local landmarks and friends; this one pays homage to Rollstone Mountain in Fitchburg, Massachusetts.
As a New England “chestnut,” it captures the perfect blend of Irish and French Canadian influences that define the region’s sound.
-
The Key: It is played in D Major, making it bright, resonant, and a favorite for fiddle sessions.
-
The Feel: It is a classic 4/4 reel with a steady, driving rhythm. It’s known for being “square” (even phrasing), which makes it exceptionally popular among contra dance callers because it fits the dance figures so perfectly.
-
The Melody: The A-part has a lovely climbing feel, while the B-part features a satisfying “roll” that gives the tune its momentum.