John Egan (piper) facts for kids
John Egan (1840–1897) was a famous Irish musician. He played the Uilleann pipes, a special type of bagpipes from Ireland. Egan was known as The Albino Piper.
Early Life and Music
John Egan was born in 1840 in Dunmore, a town in County Galway, Ireland. He was left-handed, just like another well-known piper from Ireland, Patsy Touhey.
Egan learned to play the uilleann pipes from talented teachers. His main tutor was Liam Dáll Connolly. Later, he also learned from Connolly's grandson, John Burke (piper). These teachers helped Egan become a very skilled piper.
Life in the United States
Like many Irish people at the time, John Egan moved to the United States. He spent most of his life there, living in New York City.
Even though he lived in New York, Egan didn't stay in one place. He traveled around the eastern parts of the United States. He often went on tours with other famous pipers, including John Cronan and his countryman Patsy Touhey. They shared their amazing Irish music with many people.
His Musical Talent
John Egan was highly respected for his music. Francis O'Neill, a famous collector of Irish traditional music, wrote down what people said about Egan.
One person, Nicholas Burke, described Egan's playing. Burke said that Egan "was a grand player and very powerful in his music." This means Egan played with great skill and energy, making his music strong and impressive.
Later Years
John Egan continued to play music throughout his life. He passed away in New York in 1897, at the age of 57. He is remembered as an important Irish piper who shared his talent in both Ireland and the United States.
