Seán Keane (fiddler) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Seán Keane
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Keane performing in 2010
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| Background information | |
| Native name |
Seán Ó Catháin
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| Born | 12 July 1946 Drimnagh, Dublin, Ireland |
| Died | 7 May 2023 (aged 76) |
| Genres | Folk, Traditional Irish |
| Occupation(s) |
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| Instruments | Fiddle |
| Years active | 1960s–2023 |
| Labels | |
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Seán Keane (born July 12, 1946 – died May 7, 2023) was a famous Irish fiddler and teacher. He was a very important member of the well-known traditional Irish music group, The Chieftains. Before joining The Chieftains in 1968, he played with another group called Ceoltóirí Chualann in the 1960s. Seán had a special way of playing the fiddle, making his music sound unique and beautiful.
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Early Life and Music
Seán Keane grew up in a family full of music in Drimnagh, a suburb of Dublin, Ireland. Both his mom and dad played the fiddle. They came from musical areas in County Longford and County Clare. Their home was a popular spot for traditional musicians from all over Ireland. These musicians would visit Dublin to play music, and the Keane house became a famous place for traditional music in the 1950s and 1960s.
These visiting musicians had a big impact on Seán and his brother, James, who played the accordion. Seán also learned a lot during summer trips to Longford and Clare. There, he heard even more traditional Irish music, which helped him develop his own special playing style.
Sharing His Music
Seán Keane's talent was featured in TV shows that explored how traditional music is passed down. In May 1981, he was on RTÉ's Hand Me Down series. This show looked at how artists learned Irish music from their families. In one part of the program, Seán played solo. He then joined members of the Castle Céilí Band. They played music for the Mullagh set dancers at the Willie Clancy Summer School. The Castle Céilí Band even got back together just for this show. You can find this program in the RTÉ Libraries and Archives.
In March 2019, Seán was also featured on a show called 'Sé Mo Laoch on TG4. This documentary series highlights some of Ireland's greatest traditional musicians. The 25-minute episode explored his life and career. It covered everything from his childhood to his later years. You can watch this documentary on the TG4 Player.
Family Life
Seán Keane was married and had three children: Deirdre, Páraic, and Darach. Both Darach and Páraic followed in their father's footsteps and became musicians. Many of Seán's grandchildren also play instruments. Molly, Alex, and Ella play the fiddle. Loulou and Clara play the concertina. Ruby plays the cello, and Jack plays the uilleann pipes and tin whistle. His other grandchildren are Doireann, Páidí, and Seán Óg.
Seán Keane passed away on May 7, 2023, at the age of 76. He left behind a wonderful musical legacy.
Albums and Collaborations
Seán Keane released several albums during his career. He also worked with many other talented musicians.
Solo Albums
- Gusty's Frolics (1975)
- Seán Keane (1982)
- Jig it in Style (1990)
Albums with Other Musicians
- Roll Away the Reel World (with James Keane and Mick Moloney) (1980)
- Contentment is Wealth (with Matt Molloy) (1985)
- The Fire Aflame (with Matt Molloy and Liam O'Flynn) (1993)
- Fire in the Kitchen (with Paddy Moloney) (1998)
