Tributes are pouring in for renowned musician and composer Mícheál Ó Súilleabháin, who has died at the age of 67.
The Clonmel native passed away last night, at Milford Hospice in Limerick last night.
He’s survived by his wife Professor Helen Phelan, his sons and family.
In My Own Words, presented by Dr. Mícheál Ó Súilleabháin will be aired in tribute to him, on Clare FM this Sunday from 5pm.
Born in Clonmel, Co. Tipperary, Mícheál O Súlleabhán was one of Ireland’s best-known musicians, composers and academics.
He was Emeritus Professor of Music at the University of Limerick and founder and Director at the Irish World Academy of Music and Dance, which he created in 1994.
He also recorded a series of pioneering solo albums which re-positioned his chosen instrument, the piano, at the heart of Irish traditional music.
Corofin native and academic Dr Tim Collins says he was one of the great cultural figures of modern times.
President Michael D.Higgins says his music and outstanding work will forever be enjoyed by countless people, celebrating his humour, his fearless sense of exploration and his talent for harmony, joy and mobilising the peerless power of music.
He’s described him as a representative of what Irishness is at its best, leaving us with an indelible legacy, both through his music and through the Academy, which he led for over 2 decades.
Feakle Fiddler Martin Hayes Martin Hayes the the Irish World Academy of Music and Dance will be his legacy.
Mícheál O Sulleabhán also had a special connection with Clare FM, composing some of the station’s key musical themes, including for A Clare Day 29 years ago, as well as the recent award-winning Fleadh coverage.He’s also featured in “In My Own Words”, a programme here on Clare FM.
