Derek Bell

Irish harpist, oboist, horn and keyboard player Derek Bell, a member of the band 'The Chieftains' has died whilst in the USA, aged 66. His death was announced on 17 October 2002.

Born in Belfast on 21 October 1935, Bell studied at London's Royal College of Music (where he received the Manns Prize), and also with Leon Goossens.

Before joining The Chieftains in 1972 he played in orchestras in England, Hungary, Ireland, Russia and the USA, and was Professor of Harp at the Academy of Music in Belfast.

M&V's Jennifer Paull has spoken of Bell's generosity, flying at his own expense from China to play in her ensemble, and Kevin Conneff, Martin Fay, Seán Keane, Matt Molloy, Paddy Moloney, Seán Potts and Michael Tubridy (the remaining members of The Chieftains) commented in a joint statement that 'his passing leaves a silence that will never be filled'.

Information: www.classicalmusicdaily.com/articles/b/d/derek-bell.htm

Posted: 19 October 2002

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