Look Who it Was Random video

Guitar: The Fairies' Dance

1,546 views · Published 25 November 2008 · 1:46 · Indexed 21 October 2026

Channel: threelegsoman · 2008 · Music

Watch on YouTube

In Ireland, they believe in mischievous sprites called leprechauns. In the Isle of Man it is the 'little people', or fairies though they do not like to be called the latter. They are mischievous scamps who often perpetrate pranks that can be guarded against by wearing charms such as the Bollan Vane, commonly called mugwort. This is the Manx National Flower and is traditionally worn in the lapel on Tynwald Day each year.
The song, which can be played as an instrumental at a quicker pace is also a dance tune. The tune is a traditional Manx air called 'Juan y jaggad Keear' or 'John with the grey jacket'. The words were written by Edward Oxenford.

The Fairies’ Dance
Edward Oxenford

D                                                                                 A
Come, the fairies now are dancing gayly on the claddaghs green,
D                                G                            D           A           D
‘Tis the sight that’s most entrancing, e’re by mortals seen.
A                                G
Happy little people, merry little people,
D                                   G                       D          A                D
Hand in hand they’re gayly dancing on the claddaghs green,

There, while o’er the moon is shining, they will frolicking remain,
Cushag blossom deftly twining in the floral chain.
Happy little people, merry little people,
Yet as they are oft designing, show your bollan vane.

Come, the moonlight hours are flying, to the claddaghs let’s away,
Unbelievers satisfying, fairies dance and play.
Happy little people, merry little people,
Faith in them shall be undying ever and a day.

Come, the fairies now are dancing gayly on the claddaghs green,
‘Tis the sight that’s most entrancing, e’re by mortals seen.
Happy little people, merry little people,
Hand in hand they’re gayly dancing on the claddaghs green,

More from this channel