TOMMY PEOPLES, the renowned fiddler and composer perhaps best known for his work with the Bothy Band, has passed away at the age of 70.
A short statement on his website confirmed his passing.
He had been ill in recent years, which had impacted on his playing, however he had continued to compose music and in 2015 released a book on his playing style.
Born in St Johnston in Co. Donegal in 1948, Tommy had his first fiddle lessons from his older cousin, Joe Cassidy, who had been taught by their grandfather, Jimmy Peoples.
Playing in the East Donegal style, Tommy headed for the capital in 1965 where he became a member of An Garda Síochána.
It was during his time in Dublin that he become involved with various groups including the Bothy Band as well as Green Linnet Céilí Band and 1691.
He also carved out a name for himself as an impressive solo performer.
Tommy later moved to Co. Clare where he married Mary Linnane, daughter of Kitty Linnane, long-time leader of the Kilfenora Céilí Band.
Tommy was awarded the first TG4 Traditional Musician of the Year Award in 1998 and in 2013 he received the Composer of the Year award, thus becoming the first person to receive a second Gradam in the TG4 awards.
Tributes from fans and fellow musicians have poured in for Tommy, described as the “most influential fiddler of his generation”.
RIP Tommy Peoples. A legend.
— Cara Dillon (@CaraDillonSings) 4 August 2018
Tá Dún na nGall faoi smúid inniu faoi chailliúnt Tommy Peoples.
Rest in Peace Tommy Peoples our inspiration.
Ní bheidh do leithead ann arís! https://t.co/mGZMjhljfr— Altan (@altanmusic) 4 August 2018
Tommy Peoples. Far and away one of the most influential fiddlers of his time. He has left behind a wealth of music. Rest In Peace pic.twitter.com/R2EyEgWmli
— We Banjo 3 (@WeBanjo3) 4 August 2018
So sad to hear about the death of Tommy Peoples. The week I spent in his class in Miltown when I was 18 pretty much changed everything for me. Last heard him in Spiddal just a few years ago and his music was as magical as ever. RIP Tommy – a fiddle player like no other.
— Toner Quinn (@TonerQuinn) 4 August 2018
Will never forget finding my folks’ copy of the first Bothy Band lp when I was 14. Put it on their old record player in the back room & was blown away by Tommy Peoples’ wild and full-hearted playing. Literally changed the course of my life. Condolences to his family & friends https://t.co/2TRS5U6Iaq
— Danny Diamond (@FiddleDiamond) 4 August 2018
Desperately saddened to hear of the passing of my fiddle playing hero, greatest influence and friend, Tommy Peoples. RIP, Tommy. Thoughts with the whole family 🙏
— Dónal McCague (@bitsnpieces2011) 4 August 2018
Very sad to hear of the death of Tommy Peoples. A true original. Ceol na bhflaitheas go gcloisfeadh sé.
— Ellen Cranitch (@pvespertine) 4 August 2018
A funeral Mass will be held on Tuesday, August 7 at noon in Ennis Cathedral with burial afterwards at Drumcliff Cemetery.
