“The Parting Glass” is a popular Scottish traditional folk song that captures the feeling of Shakespeare’s quote “Parting is such sweet sorrow.” Supposedly it was the most popular New Year's Eve song in Scotland before Robert Burns wrote “Auld Lang Syne.” “The Parting Glass” was made world-famous in the 1998 comedy “Waking Ned Divine,” where it was sung in the unforgettable closing scene of the movie. It was adapted into a tune for the bagpipes sometime in the past century and has become a popular favorite.

The Parting Glass Preview

I thought it would be fun to do a little video of me playing with the beautiful spring blossoms that are in full bloom now. Hopefully, it helps inspire you to learn this great tune.

Lyrics to The Parting Glass

Of all the money that e’er I spent, I’ve spent it in good company.
And all the harm that ever I did, alas it was to none but me.
And all I’ve done for want of wit, to memory now I can’t recall.
So fill to me the parting glass, good night and joy be with you all.

If I had money enough to spend, and leisure to sit awhile.
There is a fair maid in the town, that sorely has my heart beguiled.
Her rosy cheeks and ruby lips, I own she has my heart enthralled.
So fill to me the parting glass, good night and joy be with you all.

Oh, all the comrades that e’er I had, they’re sorry for my going away.
And all the sweethearts that e’er I had, they’d wish me one more day to stay.
But since it falls unto my lot, that I should rise and you should not.
I’ll gently rise and softly call, good night and joy be with you all.

Sheet Music and Tutorial

If you have already enrolled in the Bagpipe Master course, here’s the link to check out the full step-by-step tutorial and download the sheet music:

Access Sheet Music & Tutorial