Intermediate

How to Practice St. Anne's Reel

'St. Anne's Reel' is one of the most-played reels in the Canadian-American fiddle tradition. The bright melody, the lift in the B section, and the moderate tempo make it accessible while still rewarding ornamentation and variation.

What to Focus On

Reel rhythm (steady 4/4 with implied 8th-note subdivision). Smooth chord changes in D major. The lift between A and B sections.

Practice Tips

  1. 1

    Reel rhythm is steady but with an implied 8th-note pulse. Practice the rhythm before adding melody.

  2. 2

    The B section is brighter than the A. The lift between the two sections is what makes the tune feel alive.

  3. 3

    It's commonly played in D major. Practice in that key before transposing.

Why This Song

It's the Canadian-American reel standard. Every fiddle and guitar player in those traditions knows it.

Practice St. Anne's Reel Daily

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