Patrick Fitzpatrick was born in Carrigallen around 1860.
According to Francis O’ Neill in his publication Irish Minstrels and Musicians:
“A rarity among pipers, Mr. Fitzpatrick is not only abstemious, and economical in his habits, but a thrifty business man as well. Unafflicted with artistic temperament in the slightest degree, he is both liberal and companionable.
Born at Carrigallen, County Leitrim, in 1860, he learned to play the flute in his youth. When but sixteen years old he went to Scotland, and during his five years’ stay took up the practice of the Highland pipes. Shortly after his coming to New York, in 1881, he lent his instrument to John O’Neill, an expert performer, and never saw either since. …
Mr. Fitzpatrick transferred his attention to the Union pipes thereafter, but was always engaged in commercial pursuits. He built Celtic Hall, in New York City, in 1892, and it became the Mecca for the best class of Irish sociables and gatherings for many years.
Early in the year 1913, Fitzpatrick started out to tour the country with “The Top o’ the Mornin’ ” company, in which “Paddy” Long, late of Cork City, leads the Irish dances, and he it was who played for the dancers for the New York Feis, held on the first day of June in the same year.”
Image from O’ Neill’s “Irish Minstrels and Musicians” page 321
Ward’s Music Archive
It is claimed that piper, Fitzpatrick built and named a centre for Irish music in New York called “Celtic Hall” in 1892. He later toured America and made some recordings for Edison Diamond Discs.
Dance Music
Fitzpatrick played for dancers at numerous events, such as the “Gaelic Society’s Festival”, balls organised by the Gaelic League and various Irish sporting and cultural organisations.
Here’s a sample of a jig he possibly recorded for dancers:
Three Drops of Brandy
And we also have access to the reel “Three Drops of Brandy” thanks to the Ted McGraw Collection in Ward Irish Music Archive
