paddy ‘brody’ Kierse (1891-1973)

Paddy “Brody” Kierse was a concertina player from Boulthadine, born in 1891 and remembered as a tall, kind-hearted man with a deep love of music. The son of John Tom Kierse, Paddy was a familiar figure in the musical life of North Clare throughout the mid-20th century. He passed away in 1973 at the age of 82.

Paddy was known locally for his gentle nature and musical generosity. He often visited the Ward family home in Clogher, sharing tunes and stories, and his playing left a strong impression on those who heard him. His grandnephew PJ King recalled learning his first tunes from Paddy in 1962, describing him as a “big tall gentle giant” — standing over six feet tall and always full of encouragement.

A recording of Paddy playing the jig “Brody Kierse’s” survives, and he is also featured on the celebrated CD “Keepers of Tradition: Concertina Players of County Clare”, a project by Comhaltas and Cois na hAbhna Archives that honours the unique concertina tradition of the county.