Big John McNeil

Comment by Rob Morrison on January 7, 2014 at 10:32pm

"Big John McNeil" is a Scottish dance tune written by Peter Milne (1824-1908), the brilliant fiddler and dance composer.  The tune is in honor of a celebrated Scottish dancer named John McNeil in the last half of the 19th century.  This adaptation is not a literal transcription of the fiddle tune, but is rather arranged in the idiomatic 19th century banjo style.  The tuning and period instruments are contemporary with the composer and it's namesake.  My son Joe joins me on the tambourine.--Rob Morrison.

Comment by Strumelia on January 7, 2014 at 10:58pm

Very enjoyable, Rob.  I love the subtle tambo with it.  Nothing like making home-made music with loved ones or friends!

Comment by Paul Draper on January 7, 2014 at 11:02pm

How are you tuned up Rob? Nice tune.

Comment by Rob Morrison on January 7, 2014 at 11:26pm

Paul-- I'm playing a circa 1880's Haynes banjo tuned in open (or high bass) E, one step above Briggs tuning. This particular instrument sounds happiest in this tuning.--Rob

Comment by James Pentecost on January 8, 2014 at 7:22am

Rob-- Nice tune, well played.

Is that one of your vintage tambourines?

Comment by Rob Morrison on January 8, 2014 at 9:29am

Jim--Yes, it's a really cool beaten up old tambourine I found in an antique shop in downtown Mebane, NC.  I posted photos of it some time ago.  They should be on my page.  Thanks for the compliment.--Rob

Comment by Mark Weems on January 8, 2014 at 12:23pm

Well! Nice to see you finally put a video up Rob. Let's have some more please. Each with a different banjo?

Comment by Rob Morrison on January 8, 2014 at 1:41pm

Thank you Mark.  I was thinking of doing just that.--Rob

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