Explanation of analysis
Banks of Claudy would have had four sections of 16 bars. There are three sections in the
notation and the third section lacks its final bar. The figures in this analysis are based on a
reconstruction of the melody as follows.
First phrase: four bars as noted
Second phrase: four bars as noted
Third phrase: three bars as noted plus last bar of second phrase
Fourth phrase: first phrase
This would bring the piece into line with other versions of the tune noted by Bunting such
as an Cailín Donn. The Scottish song Mo Chailin Dìleas Donn shows a further variant
structure.
In the analysis, compound intervals an octave or more (for example, notes 12 strings apart
on a harp) are described as simple intervals less than an octave, (eg., 5 strings apart) to
show their harmonic relationship more easily. Concordant intervals are defined as those
being related to the theoretical triads but which are not octaves. Bass and treble notes are
posited as being associated with the ligatures of the appropriate staves. The lowest note
of a bass chord is seen as the main bass note.
The piece could have been played in either the key of C of G and Bunting indicates the key
of C. The analysis recognises at least three hypothetical triadic chords of F, C & G in the
key of C (or A, E and B in the notated key of E). Alterations mean that certain harmonic
features are disputable. Alternative interpretations of these are placed within brackets in
the tables. The crotchet is adopted as the beat.
In bar 10, 2nd beat, 1st quaver, the note G# is held to be an accented passing note. The
harmony itself might not be regardable as a full harmony as an E triad might be the
hypothetical chord of the first two beats of this bar. In this context, the main notes of the
first quaver might be viewed as being 'stressed passing harmony'. A hypothetical chord for
such harmony is questionable but, to be pedantic, I have identified it as an F# triad gliding
down onto the E triad. It could also be seen as a B triad, a hypothetical chord which may
also feature in Gaelic harp music of this period. In such a case, the melody note would be
the 3rd of the hypothetical triad.
Banks of Claudy
Explanation of analysis