The Banshee

Reel, G, Irish, attributed to James McMahon, 1893-1977
TrailJams Tune of the Week for July 15, 2021

This tune is attributed to James McMahon [1893-1977] and is variously known as McMahon’s Reel, McMahon’s #3, and McMahon’s Favorite. James McMahon’s daughter, Rose, has published a Facebook page with information about the tune and about James. A Banshee, in Irish mythology, is a female fairy who heralds a person’s death by her shrieking or keening.

The Banshee, Irish Reel. TrailJams Tune of the Week. Play it together July 15, 2021.

Recordings

Dots (Musical 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.

Sheet music for The Banshee (a.k.a. McMahon's Reel), Reel, G Major. Arrangement by Jonathan Lay. trailjams.org

Play from the Dots
Slow tempo 65bpm
Moderate tempo 85bpm

Suggested Sets

Examples of sets that include this tune.

Other Resources

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