DOWN BY THE OLD MILLSTREAM - Free Jazz Leadsheet

"down by the old millstream" was composed by Tell Taylor in 1910. The piece is a sentimental, nostalgic song reflecting the rural American tradition and early popular music melodies.

The first recording was by the Peerless Quartet in New York, featuring harmonized vocals and piano accompaniment. Later jazz and swing interpretations adapted the tune’s lyrical qualities to instrumental ensembles.

The composition typically follows a verse-and-chorus structure with a memorable, singable melody, suitable for both vocal performances and instrumental jazz arrangements.