Seán Keane, one of the finest Irish folk music fiddlers, passed away on May 7, 2023. He was best known as the fiddler for the influential Irish and Celtic music band, The Chieftains.
Keane grew up in Drimnagh, a suburb of Dublin. He was born into a family with a rich musical heritage. His parents, both accomplished fiddle players, were revered members of the traditional music communities in County Longford and County Clare. Their home was a frequent destination for a multitude of traveling traditional players from all across Ireland, who performed in the bustling streets of Dublin. The Keane household became a veritable landmark in Dublin’s traditional music scene in the 1950s and 1960s, and it was here that Seán and his brother James, an accordion player, honed their craft.
Their summer trips to Longford and Clare further fueled their passion for traditional music and introduced them to an array of styles and techniques. These experiences were instrumental in shaping Seán’s musical direction and creative expression.
In 1968, Seán Keane made his foray into the world of professional music by joining the acclaimed Irish traditional music band, The Chieftains. With his virtuosic fiddle playing and his deep-seated passion for traditional music, he quickly became an integral member of the group. Seán’s contributions to The Chieftains’ discography, which spans several decades, are nothing short of remarkable.
Despite his success with The Chieftains, Seán Keane also embarked on various solo endeavors. He recorded three solo albums: Gusty’s Frolics (1975), Seán Keane (1982), and Jig it in Style (1990). In addition, Seán collaborated with a host of talented musicians, including his brother James Keane and Mick Moloney on Reel Away the Real World (1980), Matt Molloy on Contentment is Wealth (1985), Liam O’Flynn and Matt Molloy on The Fire Aflame (1993), and Paddy Moloney on Fire in the Kitchen (1998).
More about Seán Keane.
Author: World Music Central News Room
World music news from the editors at World Music Central