From Kiltyclogher, the Lennon family need no introduction. They are renowned the world over for their contribution to traditional music through compositions, performances, teaching and mentoring.
Ben
“The eldest of fours sons, Ben Lennon was born in the village of Kiltyclogher, Co. Leitrim in 1928. There was music on both sides of the family. His father, Jim Lennon, played the fiddle and his mother Sally Lennon (née McGriskin) played piano and sang. A second cousin of Sally’s, Willie Ferguson, a fiddler, would later have a strong influence on Ben’s learning of music.” ITMA
Charlie
“Charlie Lennon (1938-2024), fiddle, piano player and composer from Kiltyclogher, Co. Leitrim, was one of Ireland’s most influential and respected traditional musicians.
As a composer, his tunes have been recorded and performed by many leading traditional artists and were absorbed in the broader canon of Irish music during his own lifetime.
As a fiddle player, his unique personal style was shaped by recordings of Sligo-masters Michael Coleman, James Morrison and Paddy Killoran, in addition to the nuances and subtleties of his older brother Ben Lennon’s bowing. His fiddle playing was always imbued with a lift, bounce and rhythm, that was instantly recognisable.
As an accompanist on piano, he developed a whole new approach and standard to supporting the melody player, combining his deep understanding of the melody with a wonderful harmonic awareness.” ITMA
There are numerous performances of Ben, Charlie and their family, including founding Stockton’s Wing member, Maurice, Ben’s son, for us to enjoy.
RTÉ pays their respects to Ben Lennon on his passing in 2020
Here RTÉ’s “The Rolling Wave” programme pays tribute to Charlie on his passing.
Interview with Ben
Here you can enjoy a lovely interview that Ben gave that is part of Leitrim Library’s Local Studies Oral Collection.
The Lennon Legacy
The Lennons have left a lasting legacy when it comes to traditional music – their tunes will be played, stories of them will be told and their influence will be felt for many, many years.
