If there is a music genre where the accordion truly feels at home, it is Irish music. In pub sessions from Dublin to Galway, the accordion has been alongside the violin, tin whistle, and bodhrán for over a century. And for good reason: the instrument can do it all in this repertoire—hammer out a lively jig, carry a ballad that everyone sings along to, or make a slow tune cry.
Good news for chromatic accordion players: you don’t need a diatonic accordion to play Irish music. Here are 7 essential pieces from the repertoire, all available arranged specifically for chromatic accordion with Stradella basses, in PDF format with full audio demos.
Jigs and Polkas: The Energy of the Sessions
1. Irish Washerwoman (level 4)
THE quintessential Irish jig, recognized by everyone from the very first measures. This 18th-century jig is a whirlwind of notes in 6/8 time: the right hand runs eighth notes while the left hand drives the rhythm. A fantastic exercise in speed and endurance, and a piece that electrifies any evening. See the Irish Washerwoman sheet music for accordion
2. John Ryan's Polka (level 4)
Made world-famous by the movie Titanic (it’s the tune Rose dances to in the steerage), this polka from County Tipperary is an absolute session standard. Its lively tempo and short repeating phrases make it an excellent piece to work on consistency: an Irish polka never slows down. See the John Ryan's Polka sheet music for accordion
Pub Ballads: To Play and Sing Along
3. The Wild Rover (level 4, also available at level 2)
Probably the most sung pub song in the world. Its chorus ("and it's no nay never...") inevitably triggers hand claps on the tables. On accordion, it’s a joy: swinging verses, powerful chorus, and an audience singing along for you. Available in two levels, for beginners and advanced accordionists alike. See The Wild Rover sheet music for accordion
4. Whiskey in the Jar (level 4, also available at level 2)
This 17th-century ballad tells the story of a highwayman betrayed by his lover. Covered by the Dubliners, Thin Lizzy, and even Metallica, it spans generations without losing its charm. Its broad melody and driving rhythm make it one of the most rewarding Irish songs to play on accordion. See Whiskey in the Jar sheet music for accordion
5. Molly Malone (level 3)
The unofficial anthem of Dublin, whose statue stands in the heart of the city. This slow waltz tells the story of the fishmonger Molly and her "cockles and mussels, alive alive oh." On accordion, it’s all about tender phrasing: it’s a sad song sung with a smile, and the bellows must convey that nuance. See Molly Malone sheet music for accordion
6. I'll Tell Me Ma (level 4)
This Belfast nursery rhyme turned pub song is pure joy: fast tempo, bouncy melody, irresistible chorus. It’s the perfect piece to get both kids and adults dancing, and an excellent exercise in lightness for the right hand, as everything must bounce. See I'll Tell Me Ma sheet music for accordion
The Heartfelt Tune
7. Star of the County Down (level 3)
The most beautiful minor key Irish air. This ancient melody, singing of the fairest girl in County Down, carries that typically Irish luminous melancholy. On accordion, it lends itself wonderfully to expressive playing: subtle rubato, broad dynamics, bellows that breathe. The ideal piece to beautifully close a session. See Star of the County Down sheet music for accordion
How to Choose Your Level?
Our 1-to-5 rating system helps you pick the piece that matches your current progress:
- Level 1: accessible from the first weeks or months of serious practice on your instrument.
- Level 2: fairly easy, but clearly above level 1. The melody is clear and the accompaniment already puts you in the spirit of the piece.
- Levels 3 and 4: polished versions requiring some technique and rhythm mastery.
- Level 5: the most demanding level in the shop, for a rich version without compromise on the beauty of the work.
If you’re a beginner, start with the level 2 versions of The Wild Rover or Whiskey in the Jar: you’ll be playing real session tunes within your first months. To learn more about our approach to arrangements, visit our About page.
All our sheet music is compatible with all chromatic accordions (C or B system button keyboards, piano keyboard) and uses the Stradella bass system found on the vast majority of instruments. Each score includes a full audio demo: you hear exactly what you will play before buying.
To Go Further
Want the entire repertoire at once? Our Irish Pack Vol.1 gathers the great session tunes at a reduced price. And to expand beyond Ireland, the Premium Accordion Pack Vol.1 brings together 15 of our best scores, from sea shanties to classical masterpieces.
Sláinte, and happy bellows!
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