Pecker Dunne

Pecker Dunne was a ‘grand old man’ of the Irish Folk tradition by the time he was 34. Successive generations have looked up to him as an archetype of the travelling singer. Although his songs were never hugely commercially successful, many popular artists reference his work as a lasting inspiration.

Playing across a range of instruments, including banjo, guitar, fiddle and melodeon, Dunne was a recognisable face at many GAA (Gaelic Athletic Association) matches, where he would set up on the pavement outside and play for passing fans. After gaining notoriety as one of Ireland’s finest Traveller musicians, Dunne played further afield: from England and France to Australia and New York City. He finally settled with his wife in Killimer, County Clare, where he passed away in 2012.