Irish bouzouki player Dónal Lunny dies at 79

Irish traditional music has lost one of its central figures. Dónal Lunny died on Friday at the age of 79.

His family announced the news on his Facebook page. They stated that he passed away peacefully in the morning at St James's hospital in Dublin after a short stay. The family attributed his death to cancer. A post on the page included the Irish phrase "Ní bheidh a leithéid arís ann," which translates to the idea that his like will not be seen again.

Lunny was born in Tullamore in County Offaly. He first gained attention as part of the trio Rakes of Kildare with his brother Frank and Christy Moore. He later played in several well-known groups, including Planxty, Moving Hearts, the Bothy Band, and Coolfin. He toured internationally with these ensembles.

Although he played multiple instruments, Lunny was most recognized for his skill on the bouzouki. He also wrote melodies and was considered central to the revival of traditional music. He founded Mulligan Records, a label through which he produced 17 albums.

President Catherine Connolly sent condolences to Lunny's family and collaborators. She described him as one of Ireland's greatest musical figures and a talented producer. Connolly noted his long partnerships with musicians such as Christy Moore and Andy Irvine. She highlighted his role in bringing the bouzouki into Irish music. His peers recognized this contribution through his membership in Aosdána and a lifetime achievement award at the 2025 RTÉ Radio 1 Irish folk awards.

Taoiseach Micheál Martin said he was deeply saddened by the news. Martin called Lunny a colossus of Irish music who was uniquely gifted. He stated that Lunny carried traditional and folk music to new audiences through his work with Planxty and other projects.

Sinn Féin president Mary Lou McDonald also paid tribute online. She described Lunny as a giant of Irish traditional music who shaped the sound of the genre for generations. She said his work brought the country's musical heritage to audiences at home and abroad. The president added that his contribution to Irish music and culture would never be forgotten.