Carolan's Cup (Turlough O'Carolan, Ireland)

I consider this to be a somewhat deeper cut in the O’Carolan songbook. O’Carolan often did not follow a predictable form in his compositions. So his music takes some time to digest but the effort is always worth it. The tune is a bit unusual in that it ends on the IV chord (or perhaps the vi chord) but the harmonization is otherwise fairly straightforward. I explore the concept of major to relative minor and a variety of arranging ideas. My goal in this O’Carolan piece is to strike a balance by using a variety of ideas to enhance the chord progression but also to be careful not to obscure the beauty of the composition with too much in the way of melodic variations.

**Backup Videos Added Feb 2023

Here's What You Get:

$38 (Sheet music PLUS video lessons)

Sheet music for melody, backup, and arranging ideas. Ken talks through the tune, chord choices, hammering patterns, backups, embellishments, arranging, play-throughs, and more on his dulcimer (shot from above so that you can see what he's doing).

Video Lessons Included:

• Basic Tune
• Hammering
• Chord Progression
• Arranging Ideas (A Part)
• Arranging Ideas (B Part)
• Play-through

Approximate length: 22 minutes

***Videos can be streamed, downloaded, or viewed in the Gumroad App on mobile devices. Watch your email for instructions after purchase***

It's like having private mini-tutorials from Ken that you can watch over and over!


NOTE: Even if you already own the sheet music, your purchase ensures that you receive the latest updated versions, and future additions to new arranging ideas, backups and so forth as Ken experiments and develops his playing of the tune.


Thank you for your support - I hope you enjoy the tune! Please do not share your purchased music and videos.

Recorded Spring 2017 Sandbridge VA; Updated Feb 2023