Jim MacGillicudy

Jim McGillicuddy (1915-2001) was born in Lohar. At the age of twelve he taught himself to play button accordion from listening to local players and the radio. He became a popular player in the local dance halls and for other social occasions like house dances and weddings. His daughter Mary would often join him at these events. He played for dancers at St. Crohan’s festival in Castlecove, where there would be a makeshift outdoor platform erected for dancing. The bicycle, with the accordion strapped to the back, was the mode of transport to the halls and dances.

Jim was recorded in his home in 1984 by Patricia Connery as part of an initiative to record musicians in Kerry.

Jim MacGillicudy Scores