RIP: Tributes pour in from Kildare for troubadour, Glen Hansard

Tributes have poured in from across the public sphere in Kildare following the tragic death of singer/songwriter Glen Hansard this week.

56-year-old Hansard, who lived in Celbridge, was killed in a motorcycle accident close to the Kildare border in Lucan, Co Dublin on July 29 last.

He had taken part in a traditional Irish music session only hours before the accident in The Wren's Nest pub, Strawberry Beds.

Hailing from Ballymun in Dublin, from 1990 Hansard fronted the Irish rock band, The Frames, and later was one half of folk rock duo, the Swell Season.

He appeared in Alan Parker's BAFTA-winning comedy-drama The Commitments (1991) and later starred in the musical drama Once (2007), which earned several major awards including the Academy Award for Best Original Song for "Falling Slowly", with co-writer and co-star Markéta Irglová.

Kildare native, Christy Moore wrote on social media this week: “Such sad news that Glen Hansard, our much loved troubadour has died. A bright light extinguished tragically yesterday morning. Our generous, smiling talented friend no longer with us.

“He will be sadly missed by his Family, his Bandmates, by all the Music Community here and much further afield…Glen was always there when called upon.

“Marcaidh ar Aghaidh mo chara. Christy.”

Kildare Senator Fiona O'Loughlin wrote: “Devastating news today that we lost not only one of our true Bards, but honestly one of the most decent, kindest and compassionate people I ever met.

“Glen typified all that was good about Ireland, a true Dub, he also loved his time living in Kildare. Very honoured to have met Glen and had 'the chats' several times over the years - about life, love, the arts, politics even.

“We are all the poorer because of his passing, and his songs and smiles will live long in all our memories. Shine brightly Glen Hansard.

“Very deepest sympathy to Maire, Christy, All of Glen's family, and many, many friends.”

St. Brigid's Cathedral Kildare, added: “We at Saint Brigid's Cathedral, Kildare are deeply saddened by the tragic passing of Glen Hansard.

“The Dean and clergy extend our heartfelt condolences to Glen’s family, friends, and all who knew and loved him.

“Here, Glen is pictured performing at the Firebird Festival in the Cathedral in 2021. His music and presence made a lasting impression, and we remember him with gratitude and affection.”

A Book of Condolence has been opened by Kildare County Council in memory of Glen Hansard, this week.

The book is available for signing at Áras Chill Dara, Devoy Park, Naas, during normal opening hours until Wednesday, August 12.

Members of the public can also leave messages of sympathy online, with all tributes to be printed and presented to Hansard's family in a Book of Condolence.

Hansard is survived by his wife, Maire Saaritsa, and their son, Christy.