In Taberna Quando Sumus – Tin Whistle & Chords (PDF) – E minor – 13th Century Medieval Song

In Taberna Quando Sumus
Key: E minor
Arrangement: Tin Whistle & Chords (lead sheet) (also works for other melody instruments)
Composer credit: Anonymous
Period: Medieval (13th century)
Region / Culture: Italian
Type: Song
Format: Digital download (PDF) — 2 files (3.2MB)

About this tune

“In Taberna Quando Sumus” is widely associated with the Carmina Burana tradition—Latin texts that capture a vivid medieval world of taverns, fortune, and human excess. Even when performed instrumentally today, the title immediately evokes that energetic “tavern song” atmosphere, making it a strong choice for medieval-themed sets, reenactment events, and early-music/folk crossover programs.

In E minor, the melody gains a darker, earthy color that fits Tin Whistle surprisingly well: you can keep it direct and rhythmic for a more “danceable” vibe, or shape it as a narrative song line with expressive breath and phrasing. Because the structure is naturally repeat-friendly, you can extend it through repeats and create contrast with articulation, dynamics, or accompaniment texture.

Why “Tin Whistle & Chords” works so well

• Instant accompaniment: chord symbols let guitar/keyboard/bouzouki jump in immediately.
• Better phrasing: harmony cues help you shape tension and release instead of playing bar-by-bar.
• Flexible instrumentation: keep the same chord roadmap and swap the melody to recorder/flute/violin if needed.

Performance tips

Keep attacks clean (avoid heavy tonguing) and aim for a strong pulse. On repeats, vary subtly: lighter first time, fuller second time, or shift the accompaniment from drones/open fifths to broken-chord patterns while keeping the harmony consistent.

What you receive

• 2 PDF files (3.2MB) as listed on the product page.