Contemporary accounts show that the concertina was the main instrument for the 1880 and 1901 performances. Our musicians play concertina, melodeon and piano accordion although over the years they have from time to time been augmented by fiddle and piccolo. We do not use any form of percussion as it is not in keeping with the performance. The music was described by John Leyland as a "slow and measured air". It is important that a constant speed is maintained throughout the dance, with no speeding up or slowing down for the different figures. This is especially important at the change of rhythm both going into the "C" and coming out of the "D" music. We have found that around 80bpm is the most comfortable and effective speed. back to top