The Rose of Tralee
Song , Lyrics and Score
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The Original Score & Sheet Music for The Rose of Tralee
The Rose of Tralee is one of Ireland’s most beloved ballads, known for its poignant melody and heartfelt lyrics. First composed in the 19th century, the song has remained an enduring symbol of love and Irish heritage, famously inspiring the annual Rose of Tralee Festival.
Origins of the Song
The Music for the song was composed by Charles William Glover
The Lyrics were composed by William Pembroke Mulchinock from his poem titled “Smile Mary My Darling”
The poem was adaptated Edward Mordaunt Spencer and published in his book in 1846
In 2019, the Rose of Tralee International Festival, as part of their 60th Anniversary living history promotion, employed the services of Dr. Andrea Nini, a forensic linguist working on cases of disputed authorship. His report concluded that a poem written by Tralee poet William Pembroke Mulchinock called *Smile Mary My Darling* was published and passed off by Edward Mordaunt Spencer in 1846 in his book of poetry *The Heir of Abbotsville*. This poem was adapted into *The Rose of Tralee*, with the air being re-set by Charles William Glover from one of his previous ballads.
The lyrics to The Rose of Tralee were written by William Pembroke Mulchinock, a Tralee-born poet, in the early 19th century. Mulchinock is said to have been inspired by his love for Mary O’Connor, a beautiful maid who worked for his family. The song tells of an undying love for the “Rose of Tralee,” a woman whose beauty and kindness transcend the passage of time. There are many varying stories of the history of the song but so varied the truth cannot be found. You can read more about the History of The Rose of Tralee here.
The Rose of Tralee
lyrics most commonly used today
The pale moon was rising above the green mountain,
The sun was declining beneath the blue sea;
When I strayed with my love to the pure crystal fountain,
That stands in the beautiful Vale of Tralee.
She was lovely and fair as the rose of the summer,
Yet ’twas not her beauty alone that won me;
Oh no, ’twas the truth in her eyes ever dawning,
That made me love Mary, the Rose of Tralee.
The cool shades of evening their mantle were spreading,
And Mary all smiling was listening to me;
The moon through the valley her pale rays was shedding,
When I won the heart of the Rose of Tralee.
Though lovely and fair as the Rose of the summer,
Yet ’twas not her beauty alone that won me;
Oh no, ’twas the truth in her eyes ever dawning,
That made me love Mary the Rose of Tralee.
In the far fields of India, ‘mid war’s dreadful thunders,
Her voice was a solace and comfort to me,
But the chill hand of death has now rent us asunder,
I’m lonely tonight for the Rose of Tralee.
She was lovely and fair as the rose of the summer,
Yet ’twas not her beauty alone that won me;
Oh no, ’twas the truth in her eyes ever dawning,
That made me love Mary, The Rose of Tralee
The Rose of Tralee
From the original poem
The pale moon was rising above the green mountain,
The sun was declining beneath the blue sea;
When I stray’d with my love to the pure crystal fountain,
That stands in the green sylvan vale of Tralee.
She was lovely and fair as the fresh rose of morning,
Yet ’twas not her beauty alone that won me;
Oh no, ’twas the truth in her eye ever dawning,
That made me love Mary, the Rose of Tralee.
The cool shades of ev’ning their mantle were spreading,
And Mary, all smiling, was listening to me;
The moon through the valley her pale rays was shedding,
When I won the heart of the Rose of Tralee.
Though lovely and fair as the fresh rose of morning,
Yet ’twas not her beauty alone that won me;
No no, ’twas the truth in her eye ever dawning,
That made me love Mary, the Rose of Tralee.
The melody was composed by Glover, a well-regarded 19th-century composer and arranger. His composition perfectly captures the tender emotions of Mulchinock’s lyrics, making The Rose of Tralee a deeply evocative piece of music.
The Original Score
The original score is arranged in a traditional Irish ballad style, featuring: A flowing, lyrical melody in 3/4 time, ideal for a gentle waltz.
A simple but expressive piano accompaniment, emphasizing the song’s heartfelt nature. Chord progressions that highlight the melancholic yet uplifting theme of the lyrics.
Musicians and collectors alike value early editions of the sheet music, which have been reproduced in various forms throughout the years. While the song has been arranged for multiple instruments and ensembles, its core melody remains unchanged, preserving its timeless appeal.
Where to Find Sheet Music
For those looking to play The Rose of Tralee, authentic versions of the sheet music are available above.
Legacy and Cultural Significance
Beyond its musical importance, The Rose of Tralee has become an emblem of Irish culture, performed at traditional gatherings, weddings, and festivals. The song’s legacy continues to thrive through modern recordings and adaptations, ensuring that the heartfelt story of Mary O’Connor and her poet remains alive in the hearts of music lovers worldwide.
Whether you are a musician, historian, or simply an admirer of Irish music, The Rose of Tralee stands as a testament to the power of love and melody. Its original score and sheet music remain cherished artifacts, connecting generations through song.