It was with great sadness that the Arts Council learned of the passing of uilleann piper Liam O’Flynn. Liam was a virtuoso piper of international renown who brought uilleann piping and Irish music to the world stage. He played a seminal role in safeguarding and promoting uilleann piping. As a child he learned from master piper Leo Rowsome and as a young man he participated in the famous tionól or ‘gathering’ of pipers in Bettystown in 1968 which led to the founding of Na Píobairí Uilleann.
Speaking today, Sheila Pratschke, Chair of the Arts Council said, “Liam O’Flynn has left behind him an incredible legacy of music through his recordings, his careful support of other musicians and artists and his dedication to transmission of the great heritage of Irish music to future generations. As a member of Planxty, which he co-founded in 1972, and also as a solo artist, he had a huge influence on the artistic life of Ireland. He worked with a great range of prominent Irish artists, such as Christy Moore, Pádraigín Ní Uallacháin, Rita Connolly and Shaun Davey. He was also well known for his artistic collaborations with artists from other traditions and practices, such as poet Séamus Heaney and guitarist Mark Knopfler.”
Ms Pratschke added: "Our thoughts are with his family and friends during this time."
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