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Family and friends of Josephine Keegan, legendary Irish traditional fiddle player, piano player, and composer, gathered today at the Mercy Nursing Home, Newry at the weekend to celebrate her 87th birthday.
Josephine was in great form, amazing all with her virtuoso performance on keyboards. Musicians included Paddy and Kieran Burns, Tommy Fegan, Gerry O’Connor and Darren McGee. And the very special guest was John Daly who drove from Cork to join in the celebrations.
The 28th May, 1935, was certainly a good day for traditional and folk music. Josephine and Peggy Seeger both graced us with their presence that day. What a contribution these two ladies have made to the world of music
Josephine has an extraordinary collection of 670 tunes which she composed over her lifetime. She is a consummate fiddler but is regarded as one of the greatest piano/keyboard accompanists ever to have graced the tradition. During her birthday celebrations she stunned musicians and family alike with her command of the black and white keys.
The sheer delight of her daughter, Stella, and wider family circle was a joy to behold in the shimmering sun.
The term “legendary” gets bandied about all too easily, but in the case of Josephine Keegan, it is more than well deserved.
