It is with great sadness that we note the passing this week of fellow musician, music educator, and friend, John Kavanagh. John was a creative and talented individual, a supportive friend and colleague, and a man with a very kind and generous heart.

 

We remember John as a very patient and knowledgeable ukulele teacher, taking time to answer even our simplest questions. He was enthusiastic and generous about sharing his knowledge and playing techniques with all of his students. He made suggestions to individual players allowing each one to improve in their own way; and, he made creative suggestions leading us to experiment and improve the sound of our ukulele group. 

 

We remember John as one of the most talented ukulele players we have ever heard. John could play many different styles of music with great skill. But when he applied those skills from his classical guitar background to that baritone ukulele, he was in a league of his own. He could pick the most intricate of ragtime melodies and harmonies with such speed and dexterity that it left his audiences in awe!

 

We remember John as a brilliant and versatile musician, equally at home and competent on the viola da gamba, banjo, guitar and bass. He had this wonderful ability of being able to join in with any group on his upright bass, regardless of whether they were playing classical, jazz, bluegrass or some other genre of music.  He would play with such ease that it seemed he had been playing with them for years. John also arranged much of the music he played and recorded. On his first CD, Parlour Music: Ragtime and Classical Duets for Uke and Guitar, he played the different instruments that together sound like finely tuned string ensembles. He had almost completed the recording of his second CD.  

 

John, you brought joy into the lives of everyone you met with your great musical gift and your beautiful smile. We are so sorry that you had to leave family and friends so soon.  There was so much more music to play . . .  We will remember you always.

 

 

Sandra Obritsch

Musical Director,

South Shore Ukulele Players

 

 

We first met John during the 2005 Ukulele Ceilidh where he quickly impressed everyone with his talent on the ukulele and bass, his musical expertise, and his friendly, easy going manner. Since that time John had become an ardent supporter and promoter of the Ukulele Ceilidh. In 2007, his workshops and performances became an integral part of the Ceilidh weekend.  When John wasn’t teaching or performing, you could find him jamming with a group of happy ukulele players. It is very difficult to imagine the Ukulele Ceilidh without John being there.  He will be sadly missed by all.

 

The Liverpool Ukulele Ceilidh Society