I think what our guest dhowell is referring to are the stringbands that favor the Galax/Round Peak style of playing. And I share the observation that they have an allergy to anything that is not in 2/4 time. If Tommy and Kyle didn't play jigs, then God must have intended for us all to play in 2/4.

As far as style, or bowing goes, I'm lost on the "jiggy" vs. "hornpipey" terms. I play 'em all, hornpipes, reels, and jigs, since I play mostly for local dances. I find that the dancers don't care for the subtle nuances of fiddling technique, as long as you accomplish a few simple things: 1. play loud enough to be heard, 2. Keep the rhythm steady, and 3. don't quit until the caller gives you the cut-off signal.