Get all your news in one place.
100's of premium titles.
One app.
Start reading
The Guardian - UK
The Guardian - UK
Entertainment
Derek Schofield

Moya Brennan obituary

Moya Brennan at the Union chapel, London, 2009
Moya Brennan recorded with folk artists such as Dónal Lunny and the Chieftains, as well as rock and pop performers including Robert Plant, Van Morrison and Ronan Keating. Photograph: Gus Stewart/Redferns

Moya Brennan, who has died aged 73, was a founder member, lead singer and harpist with the Irish folk band Clannad. It was Moya’s ethereal singing voice that contributed to the band’s distinctive sound, particularly on the theme music for the television series Harry’s Game in 1982. Moya later pursued a successful solo career, collaborating and recording with an impressive number of performers across the musical spectrum.

Formed in 1970, the band was initially called Clann As Dobhar (the family from Dore), which was soon shortened to Clannad. The band members were all related: Moya’s brothers, Ciarán and Pól Brennan, were joined by Pádraig and Noel Duggan, identical twins who were Moya’s uncles, though very similar to her in age. For a time, Moya’s sister Enya was also a member, until she left to pursue her highly successful solo career.

Sign up to read this article
Read news from 100's of titles, curated specifically for you.
Already a member? Sign in here
Related Stories
Top stories on inkl right now
One subscription that gives you access to news from hundreds of sites
Already a member? Sign in here
Our Picks
Fourteen days free
Download the app
One app. One membership.
100+ trusted global sources.