Phil Durkin, one of the loveliest people of the Chicago Irish Music community, has died. Another of my musical "uncles," Phil gave me my first copy of the tune-only O'Neill's 1001 (The Dance Music of Ireland) which I still cherish to this day. I spent many hours at Phil's house during the early years listening to and playing music. Until a few months back, I would meet Phil at Lanigan's Pub for a chat and a highball or two, and had even started writing a tune for him called the "14 Karat Kumquat" based on a shared moment of hilarity from years ago…
Our last conversation centered around fiddlers and Michael Coleman in particular. So here are a few tunes from Coleman in your memory Phil.
Rest in peace my friend...
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Philip Durkin
Age 83.
Native of Curry County Sligo Ireland.
Produce Manager with Jewel Foods for over 35 years.
Longtime member of The Irish Musicians Association.
Beloved son of the late Thomas and Mary (nee Mugan) Durkin. Loving brother of Mary (Richard) Lechert, Margaret(Patrick) Ryan, Christopher (Eileen) Durkin, the late Theresa(the late Thomas), the late Thomas (Bridie), the late Philomena Burrows and the late Michael Durkin.
Dear uncle and great uncle to many nieces and nephews.