Gussie Russell facts for kids

Austin (Gussie) Russell (1917–2004) was a famous Irish musician. He played the flute and whistle. Gussie was from Doolin, a small village in County Clare, Ireland. He was also known as a skilled stonecutter, someone who shapes and works with stone.

Gussie was one of three brothers who became well-known musicians. His brothers were named Micho and Packie. Together, they shared their love for traditional Irish music.

Gussie started learning music when he was very young. He learned many of his skills from his neighbor, Patrick Flanagan, who played the concertina. In 1932, Gussie and Micho received their first concert flutes. Their uncle, John Moloney, brought them these flutes when he returned from the United States.

The Russell brothers first became known outside their village because of the Irish Folklore Commission. This group worked to record old stories and music. In the late 1930s, Seamus O'Duillearga recorded some of the Russell brothers' music in County Clare. Later, other recordings helped their music reach even more people.

About Gussie Russell

Gussie Russell was born into a family of five children. He had two brothers and two sisters. His parents were Austin Russell and Annie Moloney.

Besides being a talented musician, Gussie had another important job. He worked as a stonecutter in the quarry at Doonagore. A quarry is a place where stone is dug out of the ground. Gussie was very good at working with stone. He was also a skilled mechanic, meaning he was good at fixing machines.

Music Recordings

Gussie Russell's music was captured on several recordings. These recordings help us remember his amazing talent.

With His Brothers

Gussie recorded music with his brothers, Micho and Packie.

• The Russell Family of Doolin, Co. Clare: This album was recorded in January 1974. It was made in O'Connor's Bar in Doolin. Topic Records released it in 1975.

Other Collections

Gussie's music also appeared on other albums that featured many different traditional Irish artists.

• Farewell to Lissycasey: The Traditional Music of County Clare: This collection was released in 1995.
• Treasure Of My Heart: Classic: This album came out in 1998.