Funeral arrangements have been announced for Dónal Lunny, the acclaimed folk and trad musician who died last week aged 79.
The Tullamore native was a founding member of influential Irish bands Planxty, The Bothy Band and Moving Hearts and was famous for his collaborations and innovative approach to music.
His funeral will take place this Saturday in St. Conleth’s Parish Church in Newbridge, according to a family announcement on RIP.ie.
Dónal Lunny pictured in 1973
The notice reads: “Dónal will be forever loved and very sadly missed by his loving family and friends, wife, children, grandchildren, sisters and brothers Máire, Sheila, Frank, Eveleen, Phelim, Gráinne, Roisín, and Manus extended families, especially his music families and the global musical community.
“Dónal is back in the arms of his loving parents Frank and Mary and his beloved son Shane.”
Dónal Lunny: The virtuoso shape-shifter of Irish music
It adds, “Dónal’s family would be very grateful if well-wishers and fans would join them in remembering him by watching the funeral ceremony at 11am via the live stream instead, as capacity in the church is limited to family and close friends.”
His family are also encouraging “people throughout the world (including the moon!) to play and share music with friends and family this weekend, celebrating the joy and connection that Dónal’s music brought to so many.”
Friends and fans are also asked to share their words and music using the hashtag #donallunnyfleadh.
A public book of condolences will be available to sign at The Riverbank Arts Centre in Newbridge, Kildare County Council Offices.