Mike Rafferty (flautist) facts for kids
Mike Rafferty (1926–2011) was a famous Irish traditional flute player. He was known for his beautiful music. He also helped spread Irish music in America.
Contents
Mike Rafferty's Early Life and Music
Mike Rafferty was born on September 26, 1926. He grew up on a farm in Ballinakill, a small place in County Galway, Ireland. Mike learned to play music mostly from his dad, Tom "Barrel" Rafferty. His father played both the flute and the uilleann pipes, which are a type of Irish bagpipes.
From Ireland to the United States
In 1949, Mike Rafferty moved to the United States. He settled in northern New Jersey. Soon, he became very well-known in the Irish traditional music scene. This was especially true in the big New York City area.
Performing and Touring
Mike played at many concerts and festivals across the United States. One big event was the Smithsonian Institution's Bicentennial Festival of American Folklife in 1976. He also toured with a famous group called the Green Fields of America.
Helping Irish Music Grow
Supporting Irish Music Organizations
Mike Rafferty was very important in helping an Irish music group called Comhaltas Ceoltóirí Éireann (CCE) grow in North America. He helped establish the Martin Mulvihill Branch. Later, a CCE branch in New Jersey was named after him. It is called the Michael Rafferty Branch.
Recordings and Teaching
Mike made three music recordings with his daughter, Mary Rafferty Clancy. She plays many different instruments. He also made a solo recording. Another recording was with the fiddler Willie Kelly. Mike also taught music to many students. He taught privately and at special music events. These included The Catskills Irish Week and the Augusta Heritage Center. He also taught for the New Jersey State Council on the Folk Arts Apprenticeship Program.
Awards and Recognition
In 2003, Mike Rafferty was named Irish Echo's Traditional Musician of the Year. This was a big honor for him. In 2010, he received a National Heritage Fellowship. This award is given by the National Endowment for the Arts. It is one of the highest honors for traditional artists in the United States.
Mike Rafferty's Unique Music Style
Mike Rafferty was known for his special way of playing the flute. He was one of the best players of the East Galway style. This style is known for being flowing and beautiful. It is a bit slower and uses fewer extra notes than other Irish flute styles. He shared this style with other great musicians like Paddy Carty and Jack Coen.
Discography
- The Dangerous Reel (with Mary Rafferty), 1995.
- The Old Fireside Music (with Mary Rafferty), 1998.
- The Road from Ballinakill (with Mary Rafferty), 2001.
- Speed 78, 2004.
- The New Broom (with Willie Kelly), 2009.
