About the Dance Music

 

The Music

 

Historically, Morris dancing music was probably played on loud and rhythmical instruments of the time such as the pipe and tabor. Today, the music is often played on accordion, melodeon and concertina, the so-called "Free-Reed Instruments," but violin and flute can often be heard. Percussion instruments like the tambourine and drum are welcome but must be careful to match the timing and feel of the music. In summary, unless someone lets me know to the contrary, any instrument can be employed as long as it can provide the "lift" to the dancers.

Albums of many of the dances are available. Download or buy a physical CD >>. You can listen to samples of the music by clicking on the ✔ mark. The dances are graded from the straightforward (*) to the most complicated (*****). Usually, you can simplify the figures to reduce the grading by a star or so.