Sad news this morning from Joannie Madden (via Facebook):
“Mike Rafferty passed away in his sleep last night surrounded by his family. He was an iconic figure in Irish traditional music and to me as a person.”
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=v8Nw4Mr8bzA
I feel very fortunate to have had the chance to learn from him a few years ago at the St. Louis Tionol. His deeply musical recordings are cornerstones of my collection and will remain an inspiration to me.
I am very sad to hear that. RIP.
Ballygo
Very sad. One of the most enjoyable players, and a truly nice man.
RIP
A great and sad loss indeed..
Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam
Rest in Peace.
Here’s an interview:
http://www.firescribble.net/flute/rafferty.htm
And a solo video:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=v08kq6qHiss&feature=related
What a loss… He was the nicest guy, the best flooter, and a splendid teacher.
Wonderfully relaxed approach to the music.
Very great loss, and he’ll be remembered fondly by many.
It’s a blessing to have our memories, his recordings, and transcriptions by Lesl Harker: http://www.firescribble.net/rafferty/
This is sad. Irish music lost a legend. He was a good man too.
Goodby, Mike. Thank you for everything.
David
Peace, Mike, and here’s to a happy reunion with all your beloved friends who’ve gone before. No doubt Joe Madden’s been saving a place for ya!
Rest in Peace and have a great session up there.
Thanks for the great music,
Moritz
Oh, man, what awful news. The world is a better place for him having been in it.
I’ve never had pleasure of meeting him but I have learned from him none the less.
He seemed like a wonderful man.
Blue skies Mike, and thank you!
This is terribly sad news; he will be missed by many.
I just heard the sad news on Clare.fm… My condolences to his family and personal acquaintances. Although I never got the chance to meet him, his music spoke to me and will continue to do so. to myself, I fondly called him “the Raffer” and hoped to meet him someday. rest in peace Mike Rafferty and thanks for the music.
what a legend and inspiration to all. RIP
I know no one lives forever but it does seem that for some people exceptions should be made. Not only a great musician and an influence to many, more importantly he seemed to be a very generous and gentle man. There is much we can learn from that example as well.
Bump: Happy birthday, Mike.
September 27, 1926 - September 13, 2011