Michael Tubridy

Joined: 1962 Left: 1979

Michael, a native of Kilrush, County Clare, was known for his talents on the flute, tin whistle, and the concertina, an instrument common to his native County Clare. While studying at UCD in the 50’s, Michael began to attend the Thomas Street Pipers’ Club, where he met Paddy Moloney and Sean Potts, and they established strong musical connections, performing together in concerts, sessions, and making a number of radio programmes together. Along with Paddy, Seán Potts, and Martin Fay, he was one of the founding members of The Chieftains in 1962.

The pressures of touring and performing on stage took its toll on the quiet flute player and he left the Chieftains in 1979, to go back to work as an engineer. He has continued to be associated with traditional music, through teaching at traditional music festivals. He was best known for playing the flute in a deeply compelling, traditional style.

Instruments:
Flute, Concertina, Tin Whistle