Many C&F readers will know of Tony Cuffe who was a founder of the traditional Scottish group, Ossian, and who has been living in Boston in recent years.
"A multi-talented performer, Tony plays guitar, harp and whistle in addition to being a fine traditional singer. Tony has been a popular instructor and artist at Gaelic Roots , The Catskills Irish Week and The Suwannona Gathering. "
Tony has been battling cancer since last Spring and his friends have organized
several benefit concerts to raise funds for his medical expenses. There were two sold-out concerts at Boston College last weekend and others scheduled in Edinburgh
and Rhode Island. Direct donations can also be made to the benefit fund.
I was fortunate to have been introduced to the whistle by Tony at the Gaelic Roots school several years ago. He was not only an excellent musician and teacher, but he had the patience of a saint in putting up with a totally unskilled, non-musical newby like me. He got me hooked on the sound of the whistle and I’m still tooting away and enjoying Celtic music every day.
I met Tony in July of 1999 in East Durham, New York during Irish Arts Week. It was at McKenna’s pub. I went there for lunch. I did not like the organized lunches; too many people, mass produced food. I wanted some place quiet. So I went in and sat down at a small table for two (even though I was alone). I placed my information packet on my table. Mary came by and took my order. She then told me to help myself to the salad bar. Which I did.
Upon my return, my table was just plain gone. Two chairs with no place for food. To nobody in particular, I asked “Where’d my table go?” When I looked around, I saw Tony finish placing my table along side a long table with some of his friends. He looked at me first with a bit of shock, then a wee bit of embarasement. He said “I’m sorry, I didn’t know you were sitting there.” Being new to Irish Arts Week, the papers were a necessity. I asked “could you hand me my folder?” After a second or two Tony replied
“I tell you what, lets do this right. Please grab a chair and eat with us.”
I got to know Tony a bit over the past few years. Not nearly well enough.
There are not enough positive adjectives in the dictionary to describe what the kind, patient, gentle and classy person that Tony is.
A story I thought I’d share. Especially since his musical tallent isn’t even part of it.
Tony Cuffe really is a wonderful musician and a terrific guy. I hope and pray that all goes well for him in his battle against cancer. I know from experience that the good will and the prayers of many friends will make a big difference. Tony, you are in my thoughts and in my prayers - we need you and your music.
Sue