About Fred Finn

Biography

Our branch is named in honour of the great Sligo fiddle player Fred Finn.

Fred Finn was born in Killavil, Co. Sligo. Pictured is a commemorative monument located near his homeplace in Killavil.

His father was also a fiddle player, and a contemporary of the renowned Michael Coleman. In the late 1950s and early '60s he played with the Glenview Ceili Band, and in 1972 he toured America with members of the Coleman Country Céili Band.

He made many recordings for radio and television in the 1970s and '80s. He is best remembered for his duet playing with Peter Horan, regarded as one of the finest fiddle and flute combinations, exemplifying the rhythm and complexity of the Sligo style.

Records on which his playing can be heard include an LP made with Peter Horan by Comhaltas Ceoltoiri Eireann in 1988, and he also features on the Music From Coleman Country (Topic, 1972).He was also known for his great humour and personality as well as for his highly individual style of fiddle playing.

As well as his duetting with Peter Horan, Fred Finn was also well known for his work with other musicians, including Jackie Coleman, James Murray and Jimmy Morphy. He died in January 1986.