A jig can be in 6/8 or 9/8 time, but is sometimes written as 6/4 or 9/4 in old manuscripts. Jigs have a particular 'bounce' in their rhythm, due to pronouncing the 1st, 3rd, 4th and 6th beats in the bar. The picture above shows a very old style of jig from the year 1640 written in 6/4 time.
The 9/8 form of a jig is sometimes known as a slip jig.
This has a '3 bounce pattern' and is used in country areas of Northumberland for the dance 'Drops of Brandy'. It is often difficult for musicians to master the slip jig until they've played for a dance pattern.
On this recording we hear two jigs - Hexham Races and the Stool of Repentance - played by Northumbrian musician Will Atkinson.
