Lyrics

You may talk of the piano the organ or the lute
The bugle or the mandolin the fiddle or the flute
Or any other instrument you ever gazed upon
But give to me a tune on the wee melodeon.

Though I am not the master of this instrument you see
I’m qualified to make a noise wherever I may be
I never care a rap about the way the world goes on
I always have a tune upon the wee melodeon.

I needn’t blush to tell you all I loved a cáilín grand
And I thought she was the loveliest in holy Ireland
The first time we came acquainted it was at the fancy ball
It was given on the mountainside to entertain us all.

It was a lovely entertainment and all things were running bright
We disregarded curfew and we kept it up all night
The best part of the program while the sport was going on
This maiden took a fancy to my wee melodeon.

Though I am not the master of this instrument you see
I’m qualified to make a noise wherever I may be
I never care a rap about the way the world goes on
I’ll always have a tune upon the wee melodeon.

I loved this pretty fair maid for months and months and more
I really thought her equal I have never met before
She was grand beyond description and the fairest would surpass
I was fairly fascinated with my charming Irish lass.

A rival then came on the scene and soon deposed of me
Although he was unarmed yet from him I had to flee
I was given marching orders and was put upon the run
With the order to retire with my wee melodeon.

Though I am not the master of this instrument you see
I’m can kick up a hell of a noise wherever I may be
Whenever I’m disgusted with the way the world goes on
My only consolation is the wee melodeon.