Moya Brennan, lead singer and harpist of the renowned Irish band Clannad, was honored at a funeral service held on Thursday at St. Patrick’s Church in Meenaweel, County Donegal. Brennan, widely regarded as the "First Lady of Celtic Music," passed away on Monday at the age of 73 after a battle with pulmonary fibrosis. She was a married mother of two.
Brennan was a pivotal figure in Clannad, performing alongside her brother Pol, their brother Ciaran, and uncles Noel and Pádraig Duggan. The group achieved international success, selling approximately 10 million records over their career. At the service, members of the band performed live, and a recording of Brennan was also played as a tribute.
Among those attending were prominent figures from the Irish music scene, including the members of U2—Bono, The Edge, Adam Clayton, and Larry Mullen Jr.—as well as other notable artists like Daniel O’Donnell and Andrea Corr. Brennan’s sister, internationally acclaimed singer Enya, was seen being comforted by their brother Pol during the service.
Representatives from the highest levels of Irish government were also present, with both President Catherine Connolly and Taoiseach Micheál Martin sending delegates to pay their respects. The gathering reflected Brennan’s enduring influence on Irish culture and music, particularly within the Celtic genre.
Brennan’s contributions to music extended beyond her work with Clannad. She was celebrated for her distinct voice and skillful harp playing, which helped bring traditional Irish music to a global audience. Her legacy continues to resonate among fans and fellow musicians alike.
