A member of Clare’s Tulla Céilí Band, Charlie was a renowned accordion player, described as a “true gentleman” as well as a giant of the traditional music scene.
Fellow Clare traditional musicians, the Kilfenora Céilí Band, said that sharing the stage with Charlie was always a “privilege and pleasure”.
“We were deeply saddened to hear of the passing of Charlie Harris,” the band said in a post on social media. “Our heartfelt condolences go to his family and all in the Tulla Céili Band at this difficult time.
“Charlie was not only a remarkable musician, but a true gentleman – warm, generous, and full of quiet wit. His playing carried a lift and spirit that brought joy to everyone who heard it, and his presence made every session and stage brighter.
“We in the Kilfenora Céili Band have such fond memories of sharing the stage with him and The Tulla at the All-Ireland Fleadhanna in Ennis – occasions filled with music, camaraderie, and great respect. It was always a privilege and a pleasure.”
Charlie Harris posing with a portrait of himself after being honoured at the Feakle Traditional Music Festival. Image: Feakle Traditional Music Festival via Facebook
Organisers of traditional music festival around the county followed suit, sharing memories of the late accordion player taking to the stage at the respective festivals.
“We are deeply saddened by the loss of our great friend, Charlie Harris,” Feakle Traditional Music Festival share in a social media post.
“A true gentleman and an inspiration to so many. Charlie had a special way of making everyone feel welcome with his warm smile, kind nature, and love of music, and we at the Feakle Festival feel very fortunate to have shared so many memorable moments with him over the years.
“We were especially honoured to celebrate Charlie at last year’s festival, and it was heartwarming to witness the genuine love and respect that surrounded him.
“Charlie brought joy, friendship, and music wherever he went, and his presence will be deeply missed by all who knew him, especially the Tulla Céilí Band and his many friends who gathered with him for the weekly Wednesday night sessions in Peppers.
“Our heartfelt sympathies are with Christine and all of Charlie’s family and dear friends at this very sad time.”
Charlie Harris being honoured at the Feakle Traditional Music Festival. Image: Feakle Traditional Music Festival via Facebook
Ennis Trad Fest recalled Charlie as someone known for his musicality, humility and generosity.
“The Irish traditional music community was devastated today to hear of the passing of accordion and melodeon master, Tulla Ceilí Band member, TG4 Ceoltóir na Bliana recipient and longtime visitor to Clare, Charlie Harris.
“Charlie was an icon in the traditional music world known for his musicality, humility and generosity. He was as beloved in Clare as he was in his native Limerick or adopted home of Galway and played in Ennis countless times, including a memorable performance at Ennis Trad Fest 2010 alongside Maeve Donnelly, Geraldine Cotter and Eamonn Cotter.
“The Ennis Trad Fest committee offers its condolences to his family and friends at this time.”
Funeral arrangements for Charlie have yet to be announced.