The death has been announced of the renowned fiddle player Ben Lennon.
Born in Co Leitrim in 1928, he was known for his rich repertoire of tunes and was also highly regarded as a teacher.
Very sad to hear the news of Ben Lennon's passing. He was a gentleman and a great fiddle player whose music was like a gentle mountain stream. We recorded with himself and his friends in Dog Big Dog Little, in his house in early February. It was a pleasure to be in his company pic.twitter.com/tB3rnJiOQl
— Ciarán Ó Maonaigh (@CMoonDL) March 30, 2020
From a well-known family of musicians, his brother is the fiddle player and composer Charlie Lennon and his son Maurice played with Stockton's Wing.
John McCartin, Chairperson of Leitrim Comhaltas, issued a statement of condolence to the Lennon family, via The Leitrim Observer: "Over the course of his long life, Ben taught, influences and encouraged thousands of musicians. His nature was reflected in the understated brilliance of his music. All those he encountered, remember him with great fondness. He leaves behind an invaluable legacy for which our tradition will be eternally grateful. May he rest in peace."
Ben Lennon was awarded the TG4 Gradam Ceoil Lifetime Achivement award in 2011.
