What Makes A "reel" A "reel"?

[Ken_Coles]

I am a new beginner and working through the Mad For Trad CDROM, which I like very much.  I am through the 5 initial airs with marginal competency and understanding of the button layout etc.  I am starting to work on the reels, and having some questions with the rhythm of a reel.

 

So I am curious...what is it about the rhythm of a reel that makes it a reel?  If there are 8 1/8th notes in a measure...which of them are played longer or shorter or louder or softer or with emphasis or less emphasis?    Any tips on understanding the rhythm of a reel? 

 

Many thanks,

 

Mike

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To experience a reel Mike, you could also go to Mark's session. It is only a few miles from you there (on a non-blizzard night that is; I got snowed out!)