MacLennan himself suggested "a more effective finishing" of the dance, with entrechat at the end.
[3] Yet another version, collected by Jack McConachie and published in 1972[4] is now commonly referred to as Hebridean laddie.
[5] There are reasons to believe that dances taught by Jack McConachie as Hebridean, namely flowers of Edinburgh and bonnie Dundee, originally used to be danced to the music of "Hielan' Laddie" as well.
Typically categorised as a quick march "Highland Laddie" is normally written in 2/4 time.
As with any of the older melodies, variations have been composed and some published with the most distinctive settings appearing in Pipe Major William Ross' 1885 book containing eight parts to "Highland Laddie".
"Highland Laddie" appears as the most frequently used regimental march in the Canadian Armed Forces and demonstrates a variety of settings depending upon which music book and/or instructor was used in any particular area.
The Lawland Lads think they are fine But oh they're vain and idle gaudy How much unlike the graceful mein And manly looks o' my Highland Laddie If I were free at will to choose To be the wealthiest Lawland Lady I'd tak' young Donald without trews Wi' bonnet blue and Highland plaidie (Chorus): Oh my bonnie bonnie Highland Laddie Oh my bonnie bonnie Highland Laddie When I was sick and like to die He rowed me in his Highland plaidie O'er Bently Hill wi' him I'll run And leave my Lawland kin and daddy Frae winters chill and summers sun He'll screen me in his Highland plaidie A painted room, a silken bed Maun please a Lawland Lord and Lady But I could kiss and be as glad Behind a bush in his Highland plaidie Nae greater joy I'll e'er pretend Than that his love prove true and steady Like mine to him, which ne'er shall end While heaven preserves my Highland Laddie (Repeat Chorus) Bonny Laddie, Highland Laddie Beethoven Op.
Saw ye Boney by the way, Blucher wi' his beard sae grey?