Martin Cooney: a tribute

Bill Andrews of Belfast reports:

Can't say how pleased we are to see that Martin has appeared again. Martin was the first person we met, way back in 1991*, at the Lion Center for the 'First ever Bluegrass Festival in Ireland'; he introduced us to the Flint Hill Boys and all the helpers. Glad to see him back playing again - as you say, one of the best banjo players around. The FH Boys were a sad loss, but happy to say they are still playing in different bands. We look forward to maybe seeing Martin again, at this year's Festival? (DV)

Best wishes to all at Athy - looking forward to July.

Bill and Irene

(*I was a youngster of 59 then - time flies!!)

************

Dick Gladney of Carlow adds:

Absolutely delighted to hear that Martin is 'pickin' the 5' again. He has been a major absence from the scene and one of the most influential figures in Irish bluegrass throughout the 90s. I, for one, wouldn't have been playing bluegrass only for Martin. A lot of the current bluegrass festivals, it could be argued, would not currently be taking place if he had not had the vision and determination to start the Athy Festival which led the way for all the others.

The other wonderful thing Martin was responsible for was in my meeting and becoming friends with people like Bill Andrews and many others, people I would otherwise not have met, and consequently not have had my life enriched by over the years.

Looking forward to seeing you all at Athy and hoping very much that Martin will be there.