Skye Boat Song, The

Waltz · 3/4 · G major

The Skye Boat Song is a traditional Scottish air that recounts the flight of Bonnie Prince Charlie from the Isle of South Uist to Skye following his defeat at the Battle of Culloden in 1746. Set in a gentle 3/4 waltz meter in G major, the melody features a flowing, lilting rhythm that mirrors the gentle rocking of a boat on the water. While its precise traditional origins remain uncertain, the tune is widely celebrated for its evocative, nostalgic character and is traditionally played with a smooth, expressive lyricism.

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