Michael Davoren (1936 – 2023)

Although not from a musicical family, Michael got interested in playing music at a young age, starting on a Clarke’s tin whistle before moving on to the concert flute a few years later. He quickly became known not just as a talented musician, but also as a gifted storyteller. He often played at house dances and local weddings, picking up tunes as he went. Before long, he was competing—and winning—at numerous fleadhs.

From 1958 to 1960, Michael was a member of Clare’s youngest céilí band, The Náomh Éanna. The group included, Colm Walsh, Shaun Jordan, Kathleen Curley, John Clancy, and Peter Griffin. They competed in Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann and placed third, gaining national attention. In 1959, the band lineup included:

• Pianist: Miss R. Looney
• Fiddles: John Clancy, John Mullins
• Flutes: Michael Davoren, Michael Russell
• Accordions: Bob Gardiner, Peter Griffin, Pat Quinlivan
• Concertina: Michael Conlon
• Banjo: Jimmy Rynne
• Drums: Shaun Jordan

In 1961, Michael joined The Golden Star Céilí Band. Their first performance was at Leon Hall in Quilty, and they enjoyed great success for many years. The original lineup included Ray O’Donoghue (leader), Michael Davoren, John Clancy, Paddy O’Donoghue, Jimmy Clancy, Michilin Conlon, Gus Arthur, Michael O’Connor, Charlotte O’Donoghue, and Marie Kennelly. Later members included Gerald O’Loughlin, Michael Kelliher, Paddy Donoghue, Des Mulkere, and Michael White.

To celebrate the band’s 50th anniversary in August 2011, a reunion was held with performances at Quilty Tavern and The Auburn Lodge Hotel. Michael relished being back on stage, playing with the same energy as ever.

Michael also played with The Kilfenora Céilí Band on many occasions. In 2009, during the band’s centenary celebrations, he received an award honoring former members.

He had a remarkable memory and a wealth of stories about the old days. Over the years, he played at countless sessions, festivals, and fleadhs, always carrying his tin whistle with him. He encouraged many young musicians to keep the tradition alive, especially his grandchildren—Jessica, Gráinne, and Ríona—who proudly followed in his footsteps, performing in céilí bands, groups, and solo competitions.

In October 2016, Michael celebrated his 80th birthday with a night of music at Vaughan’s Barn in Kilfenora. He played joyfully for hours, joined on stage by old friends and his grandchildren—Jessica (accordion), Gráinne (fiddle), and Ríona (banjo)—a moment he treasured deeply.

When Michael passed away in January 2023, Gráinne and Ríona, along with many musician friends, played at his funeral mass. Local musicians also gathered at his graveside, fulfilling Michael’s final wish for a musical send-off—one last celebration of the music he loved so dearly.

Special thanks to Tara Davoren for her help writing this piece.