Renowned Newfoundland and Labrador accordion player Ray Walsh dies at age 75

ST. JOHN’S, N.L. – One of the most renowned accordion players in Newfoundland and Labrador has died at the age of 75.

Ray Walsh, who was known for his playing of traditional music, appeared with a variety of the province’s top musicians over the years including John White, Joan Morrissey and John Curran.

Walsh began playing at dances and other gatherings in his hometown of Bay de Verde, and from 1964 until 1975, he was the featured performer on the CBC television program, All Around the Circle.

In 1995, he formed the Walsh Family Band with his son Greg, daughter Michelle and brother Gerard.

Walsh was also an educator, spending many years in the province’s classrooms.

He was honoured with the Lifetime Achievement Award during the 2013 Newfoundland and Labrador Folk Festival.

(VOCM)