Building a Traditional Tune Repertoire

Whiskey Before Breakfast

(Key of D)

The Tune:

Whiskey Before Breakfast is a traditional tune made popular by Manitoba fiddler Andy DeJarlis, in the 1950's, and is found in the repertoire of the Métis of Canada. It is also known as Spirits Of The Morning in the Canadian maritime provinces. This tune is a favourite at many Bluegrass jams & festivals across North America (though some might even call it overplayed!) as well as Old-Time Jams & even some Celtic sessions.

Techniques:

• Overview of Tune: Like many fiddle tunes, the theme of the first 4 measures of Part A are repeated in the second 4 measures. These sections can be played exactly the same, or you can try changing a few of the notes for variety. The chord structure in Part A is different than in Part B. Part A starts with an ascending run of the first 5 notes in the scale of D. Part B starts with two sets of octave D notes: a low D followed by a high D, one octave apart. The first high D is held for the value of a full quarter note, resulting in a syncopated rhythm for the next set of octave D notes.
  
  
• Chords: In Part A, the chords are as follows: D(I) | D(I) | G/D(IV/I) | A(V) | D(I) | D(I) | G/D(IV/I) | A/D(V/I). In Part B, an Em (ii) chord is used in the 12th measure & the last 4 measures (14-17) change chords twice each measure: D(I) | D(I) | Em(ii) | A(V) | D/A(I/V) | G/D(IV/I) | G/D(IV/I) | A/D(V/I)
  
  
• Pick Strokes: Pick all 1/4 notes with Downstrokes & all paired 1/8 notes with Down/Upstrokes. In the first measure of Part B, the first set of octave D notes is played with a Down/Up stroke, while the second set of octave D notes is played with a Up/Down stroke, creating a syncopated rhythm.
  
  

Variations:

1. Intro & Ending: Try some different introductory &/or ending notes.
   
   

   
   

2. Variations: Substitute 1/8 notes in place of 1/4 notes; try sliding up to the 7th fret of one set of strings while playing the next set of open strings in measures 6 & 12
   
   

   

   
   
3. Lyrics: Mike Cross has written humorous lyrics to this tune, found on his CD Live & Kickin', which has become a popular addition at Bluegrass festivals & campground pickin' sessions, though his melody arrangement for the verse differs from the traditional one.