Martin Talty facts for kids
Martin Talty (born in Glendine, Milltown Malbay, on November 10, 1920 – died March 16, 1983) was an Irish musician. He was known for playing the uilleann pipes and the flute.
Martin started his musical journey playing the tin whistle. Later, he learned to play the flute. He became interested in the uilleann pipes after seeing Johnny Doran play them at the Milltown Races in 1936.
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A Champion of Irish Music
Martin Talty was a very important person in Irish traditional music. He helped start the Comhaltas Ceoltóirí Éireann in County Clare in 1954. This group helps keep Irish music, dance, and language alive.
Organizing Music Festivals
He also helped organize the first big Irish music festival, called a Fleadh Cheoil, in Ennis in 1956. He also helped with the festivals in Milltown Malbay in 1957 and 1961. These events bring musicians together to play and compete.
Playing in Famous Bands
Martin played the uilleann pipes in two well-known traditional music groups. These were the Laichtín Naofa Céilí Band and The Tulla Céilí Band.
Friendship with Willie Clancy
Martin went to the same school as another famous musician, Willie Clancy. They became lifelong friends. Their friendship grew stronger because they both played the same instruments. After Willie Clancy passed away, Martin helped create the Willie Clancy Summer School. This school teaches traditional Irish music every summer.
Awards and Recognition
In 1981, Martin Talty received the Sean O'Boyle Award. This award is also sometimes called "Gradam Sheáin Uí Bhaoill." It honors people who have made a big difference in Irish traditional music.
Family Life
Martin Talty married Mary (Ciss) Kennelly in 1962. She lived until 2018. After they got married, they lived in England for a year. They stayed in places like Warminster and Epsom Downs. Martin and Mary had two children together.
Fun Facts About Martin
When Martin Talty was a teenager, he played Gaelic football. He played for the Milltown Malbay GAA team. He didn't get to play much in games.
Starting a New Football Club
After talking with a local businessman named Tom Malone, they decided to start a new football club. They named it Clonbony GAA. However, the Milltown Malbay GAA team didn't like this idea. Martin and Tom had to appeal their decision to the Munster Council. This council was in Thurles, Tipperary. They had to cycle all the way there and stay the night. But they won their appeal and were able to start their new club!
