It was with great sadness that news was received of the death of Darach de Brun of Irish band Drantan. Darach died suddenly on Sunday 24th June inDublindoing what he loved – playing the uilleann pipes.
Darach had played at Marymass in the dim and distant past and because of the good memories he had, he wanted his band Drantan to experience Marymass. And so it was that in 2009 Drantan first played at Marymass Folk Festival. The quartet quickly became firm favourites withIrvineaudiences and have played at the annual festival since.
Whilst he made his living as a bookbinder, Darach was happiest playing his pipes and loved being part of a session or simply listening to new bands. Darach enjoyed playing in Irvine pubs, at concerts, schools – anywhere in fact as long as he could bring music to people of whatever age.
He was an outgoing man, interested in so many things and made friends easily. The ‘Landladies and Landlords’ who housed Drantan when they were in Irvine always spoke warmly of Darach – he was an easy guest.
Darach is survived by his wife Val and their two sons. The sympathy of Marymass Folk Festival and Irvine Folk Club goes to Darach’s family and Drantan band members Liam Davis Snr, Gerry Byrne and Liam Davis Jnr.