Martin Devitt (1914-1973)

Martin Devitt was a fiddle player from Lickeen East, born in 1914, and part of a family with strong musical roots. He learned to play on a fiddle passed down from his brother Bryan Devitt, who was also a musician but tragically died young. Martin carried on the music in his memory, becoming a well-regarded local player.

He married Mary-Ann Hegarty from Boghil, Kilfenora — sister of Tom Hegarty — further connecting two families with deep ties to the area. Martin passed his musical talent to his son, James Devitt, a widely respected fiddle player, and the tradition continues today through his grandson, Anthony Devitt, who plays the banjo.

Martin is remembered for keeping the music going in both family and community, and for honouring the memory of his brother through every tune he played.