Statement by President Michael D. Higgins on the death of Alec Finn
Date: Fri 16th Nov, 2018 | 12:19
All those who love Irish music will have heard with great sadness the news of the passing of Alec Finn.
Alec Finn, an enormously talented musician and an influential bouzouki player, and founding member of De Danann, helped bring Irish music to the attention of a global audience.
Proud of his family’s roots in Galway, Alec Finn grew up with music, and when his own talent combined with those of Frankie Gavin, Johnny McDonagh, Charlie Piggott and Dolores Keane, De Danann was born.
From their early beginnings in An Spidéal and Galway City, De Danann grew to become one of the most significant and best loved representatives of Irish music at its best.
Alec Finn was also a distinguished solo artist and session musician, playing on a variety of string instruments, but always bringing his famed sensitivity and skill to every performance.
It has been a privilege to know Alec Finn. Sabina and I send our deepest condolences to his family, colleagues and friends, in the full knowledge that Alec Finn’s music will live on and continue to inspire countless people around the world.