PJ Lynch (1927-2001)

P.J. Lynch was born in Kilfenora in 1927, the eldest of five children in a household where traditional music was part of everyday life. He was the son of John Joe Lynch, the highly respected fiddler and concertina player from Clogher, and nephew of Bridgie McGrath (née Lynch), a concertina player of great renown. His siblings included Jerry Lynch, Noreen Lynch, and Betty Lynch.

From a young age, P.J. was surrounded by music—house dances, rehearsals, and sessions were the norm in the Lynch home. His musical journey began with a mouth organ, gifted to him by his father for “ten bob.” He played in a mouth organ band with classmates and took delight in reproducing quadrilles and jigs by ear. He was particularly fond of visiting his aunt Bridgie McGrath, who, despite the demands of raising a family, would sit down with her concertina and teach him tunes. He recalled with fascination how she repaired her own instrument, even making springs from goose quills.

Tragedy struck in 1939 when P.J.’s mother Cathy died, leaving five young children behind. P.J., just twelve at the time, stepped up with maturity beyond his years, developing a strong sense of responsibility and independence that would define him throughout his life.

In his teenage years, music briefly took a backseat to Gaelic football, and P.J. won county medals with Kilfenora at both juvenile and senior levels. However, by the early 1950s, music called him back. He played a key role in forming the Kilfenora Céilí Band, helping to organise, motivate, and shape the group in its early years. He performed with the band during its early tours of England, and although he handed over the leadership to Kitty Linnane in 1956, he was essential to the band’s early success.

He remained a colourful and honest character, unafraid to speak his mind, yet always generous in sharing his knowledge. His children—John, Pat, and Gerry Lynch—have all played with the modern Kilfenora Céilí Band, with John now serving as the band’s leader. His daughter Marie Hegarty (née Lynch) plays the concertina.