The March Of Saint Timothy

Notes

“The March of Saint Timothy” is a beloved modern march composed by Judi Morningstar in 1985. Named after a community dance hall in Michigan, the tune has become a staple of American and Celtic traditional music. With its bright G-major melody and steady, walking rhythm, it is an excellent piece for group playing and a wonderful example of how new compositions continue to enrich the traditional music tapestry.

“March of St. Timothy” is a contemporary tune that has earned a place alongside traditional standards, particularly within the contra dance and hammer dulcimer communities.

The Story Behind the Tune

Unlike many ancient marches, this tune was composed in 1985 by Judi Morningstar, a well-known hammer dulcimer player and composer from Michigan. She named it in honor of St. Timothy’s Episcopal Church in Detroit, where a regular contra dance was held for many years.

The tune’s graceful, steady rhythm and melodic accessibility made it an instant favorite for dancers and musicians alike. It has since migrated from the Midwest to become a staple of New England and British folk sessions, often played as a “grand march” to open a dance or as a stately transition between high-energy reels.

Musical Characteristics

• Rhythm & Key: It is a march in 4/4 time, typically played in the key of G Major. It has a dignified yet cheerful “walking” pace.

• Structure: The tune follows a standard AABB structure. The melody is notable for its smooth, stepwise motion and repetitive motifs, which make it very easy for a group of varied skill levels to play together.

• Instrumentation: While written by a dulcimer player, it translates beautifully to the fiddle, mandolin, and flute, often featuring a steady “thump” from the guitar or piano to emphasize the marching beat.