Drowsy Maggie

Traditional Irish Reel, E Dorian

This tune is too danceable for a lullaby, and might just jostle Maggie awake. Be sure to look at the “Nifty Mnemonics” lyrics below for a handy way to remember the melody.

Recordings

Dots (Music Notation)

As always for traditional tunes, the musical notation and chords do not indicate the “right” way to play the tune, but are a useful reference.

Musical score (sheet music) for Drowsy Maggie.
Play from the Dots
Slow tempo 65bpm
Moderate tempo 85bpm

Sets

Examples of sets that include this tune.

Nifty Mnemonics –
Lyrics for Remembering the Tune

Here are some lyrics to help you remember how the tune goes. (They are not traditional.)

Drowsy Maggie -- memory aid lyrics by Jonathan Lay

A Part (2x):
   Hey, are you drowsy Maggie?
   Hey, are you drowsy Maggie?
   Hey, are you drowsy Maggie?
   Are you really sleeping Maggie?

B Part (1x):
   Yes, I'm asleep, you can tell because my eyes are open
   Yes, I'm asleep, you can tell because I'm reaching for you
   Yes, I'm asleep, you can tell because I'm kissing on you
   Now let's blow that candle out and snuggle down until the morning

(Copyright Jonathan Lay 2021)

References and Resources

For those who want to dig deeper, here are some other resources.