Pat Murphy’s definitive reference books for Irish set dancing

Featuring instructions for over 500 dances in total, the history of set dancing and its revival, explanations of steps, definitions, and more

Toss the Feathers was Pat’s first book originally published in 1995, now reprinted in a new and updated edition with 64 classic sets including the Plain, Sliabh Luachra, Caledonian, West Kerry and Connemara, plus descriptions of the steps and a detailed history of set dancing.

The Flowing Tide, the second volume, documents 57 newly revived sets, among them the Donegal, East Galway (2 versions), Williamstown, Mealagh Valley, Glencree and Hurry the Jug. The original edition from 2000 is hard to find, and it is now available in a new version.

Apples in Winter was published by Pat himself in 2009 with instructions for 47 sets, 32 two-hand dances and 11 céilí dances. Instructions for popular favourites such as the Ballyduff, Kilfenora Plain, Boyne, Claddagh, Moycullen and Sliabh Fraoch can be found inside.

Tabhair dom do Lámh (Give Me Your Hand) is the fourth volume in the series, with 52 recently revived and newly composed sets like the Ballyfin, Ballykeale, Camp, Corballa, Merchant, Moate, Rinkinstown and Templebeg, plus a selection of two-hand and céilí dances.

Come West Along the Road is Pat’s fifth book, which includes a total of 76 dances, including 37 of the latest newly composed and revived sets, including Pat’s own Carrowbeg and Metal Bridge Lancers, a unique collection of 17 reels from Kerry, and much more.

New! Last Night’s Fun, Pat’s sixth book with even more dances than the previous volumes, 145 in total, including sets, céilí dances and two-hand dances. Among the dances included are Pat’s newest Castletown Set, the High-Cauled Cap and the Back-to-Back Hornpipe.

All books are available directly from wPat Murphy (tap name for contact info, tap icon for Pat’s full workshop schedule).

Pat’s upcoming workshops

Saturday 29 October Carryduff Weekend Co Down

Saturday 14 January Connie Ryan Weekend Co Tipperary

Friday 17 February Erlangen Weekend Germany

Saturday 29 April Half-Door TradFest Co Laois

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