Tullochgorum - Classic Text | Alexandria
"The Reel of Tullochgorum" and its creator, Reverend John Skinner (1721-1807), represent a fascinating intersection of Scottish literary and musical traditions in the 18th century. This celebrated piece, both a poem and accompanying dance tune, has become one of Scotland's most enduring cultural artifacts, with Skinner's verses earning him praise from Robert Burns, who deemed it "the best Scotch song ever Scotland saw."
Reverend Skinner, a distinguished Episcopal minister and accomplished poet, composed the lyrics to "Tullochgorum" in the 1760s, setting them to a traditional Scottish dance tune. The work emerged during a period of significant political and cultural tension in Scotland, following the Jacobite Rising of 1745. The song's message of reconciliation and brotherhood, expressed through lively verses in Scots dialect, served as a healing balm for a divided nation.
The piece gained prominence through its inclusion in various collections of Scottish music and poetry, including Johnson's "Scots Musical Museum" (1787-1803). Its popularity transcended social classes, being performed in both refined drawing rooms and rustic ceilidhs. The work's distinctive combination of sophisticated wordplay and folk elements exemplifies the Scottish Enlightenment's interest in preserving and elevating traditional culture.
Living and working in Linshart, Aberdeenshire, Skinner produced numerous other poems and songs, though none achieved the lasting fame of "Tullochgorum." His legacy extends beyond this single work through his contributions to Scottish ecclesiastical history and his correspondence with notable figures of his time, including Thomas Percy and Robert Burns. The latter's endorsement of "Tullochgorum" as "the finest song ever composed in this dialectic" has helped secure its place in the Scottish cultural canon.
Today, "Tullochgorum" remains a staple of Scottish traditional music, performed at gatherings and celebrations worldwide. Its enduring appeal lies not only in its catchy melody and clever verses but also in its embodiment of Scottish resilience and cultural pride. The work stands as a testament to Skinner's ability to create art that bridges historical divisions while celebrating national identity, continuing to resonate with audiences more than two centuries after its creation.