  We show how a field theory containing classical vortex solutions can be
expressed as an effective string theory of long distance QCD describing the two
transverse oscillations of the string. We use the semiclassical expansion of
this effective string theory about a classical rotating string solution to
obtain Regge trajectories for mesons with zero mass quarks. The first
semiclassical correction adds the constant 1/12 to the classical Regge formula
for the angular momentum of mesons on the leading Regge trajectory. In D
spacetime dimensions, this additive constant is (D-2)/24. The excited states of
the rotating string give rise to daughter Regge trajectories determining the
spectrum of hybrid mesons.
