3 minute read
Remembering A Legend
“For almost 70 years, Timmy has kept the musical flag flying along the eastern front of Sliabh Luachra.”
In 2018, this was said of Timmy O’Connor when he received the “Dedication to the Music of Sliabh Luachra” award from the Patrick O’Keeffe Music Festival.
Timmy was nothing short of a legend in Sliabh Luachras’ music scene. His work as both a musician and a composer has kept tradition alive and further developed a love for the music in those around him.
His musical journey started with an accordion that had been left behind following a night of tunes and dancing. He experimented, and the discovery of his ability to play led him down an unexpected path.
From early on in his musical career, Timmy was enthusiastic. His optimism was described as contagious and his love of music was just as contagious. His musical abilities extended to composition, and this exceptional skill has seen his mark through years of releases, including an album release in March of this year. His influence can also be seen on his musical colleagues. As a mentor, he was patient and encouraging as he further instilled a love of Sliabh Luachra’s music. His ties can be seen all over Duhallow, particularly in his membership of Rockchapel Comhaltas Ceoltóirí Éireann, but his music took him all over Europe and as far as the US.
While music is the first thought for many if not all, who knew Timmy, there is no shortage of people calling him a true gentleman, No doubt his ceaseless smile will be missed by all who called him a friend.
Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam dílis.
