I’m pondering about the people in this great calling of ours who have, in their own way, influenced the masses over the last several decades with their passion for the uilleann pipes. They may or may not have been the best at what they do, but their accomplishments have led to the significant popularization of piping or pipe making.
Criteria:
must be alive
not necessarily known as either a piper or a pipe-maker
must have had some major historical influence on the promotion of uileann piping locally/globally
does not have to currently be active or involved
could be at the top of the pyramid for inspiration to many
My first two people that could warrant a nomination to the category would be Patrick D’Arcy for his significant website “uilleannobsession.com”, and Heather Clarke for her popular tutor book.
I’m speaking of the North American continent here…
Pat Sky was instrumental in developing a renewed interest in the 60’s and 70’s.
David Quinn rejuvenated serious Uilleann pipemaking in America.
Joe Shannon was recognized by his contributions and named a patron of NPU.
Tom Standeven should receive a posthumous designation as a patron of NPU.
Chris Langan did much that is still influencing piping today thru the instruction delivered by at least two of his great students Patrick Hutchinson and Deb Quigley.
Benedict Koehler has set the standard for reedmaking in the US.
Eric Rigler has been heard by millions around the world by getting the pipes out there on soundtracks, etc.
I agree that Denis Brooks is the one. He started the SF pipers club, the Seattle Pipers Club, was the cause of several other offspring clubs, and now has been teaching in Ireland for a number of years. The guy just leaves a string of pipers in his wake, where ever he goes, and those pipers have encouraged many other pipers to get started. And he’s been doing this for 35-40 years.
I vote for Royce. Without his sneering insults, snide criticisms, and general slag-fests, this forum would have crawled up its own rectum long ago. Even those snooty flute players can’t resist coming over here to lurk when Royce comes to town.
Paul, I find your question intriguing, although your list of qualifications is quite limiting as to the pool of possible answers.
Many - no, in fact ALL of the names mentioned thus far (with the exception of conversing with Paddy Maloney on several occasions, and one brief meeting with Benedict Kohler) are people I’ve never met, and only infrequently have I ever heard of them, especially in regard to the topic at hand.
So, in order to stay within the rather tight confines of your list, I offer the following names:
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Eric Olson
Bill Tiernan
Eric is solely responsible for getting me into the ‘dark side’, and both are responsible for keeping me interested in staying on the ‘dark side’. They are, quite honestly, two chaps who have, together and single-handedly, kept piping going in the greater Rocky Mountain region.
