Mailí Nic Ailpin is said to have been composed by one of the Connellan brothers from County Sligo. It was published by John & William Neal in the earliest known collection of Irish music, in 1724, A Collection of the Most Celebrated Irish Tunes. Thomas Moore used this air for his song, Remember the Glories of Brian the Brave. A variant tune (Poll Ha'penny), also derived from this air, can be found in the repertories of fiddlers and pipers in the living tradition. 

Mailí Nic Ailpin is today well known amongst harpers and harpists, and Carolan was said to have so greatly admired this song air and wished he had composed it himself. It is not surprising; it is a classic, a wonderful air, perfectly crafted and worthy of such high praise. This is one to have in your repertory.

(part 1 of a two-part session)