Clannad singer Moya Brennan dies aged 73

Moya Brennan

Moya Brennan, best known as a founding member of the band Clannad, has died at the age of 73.

Ms Brennan died peacefully surrounded by her loved ones in Co Donegal, a family statement said.

A family statement said the singer, harpist and songwriter best known for her work with Clannad, died peacefully, surrounded by loved ones.

Taoiseach Micheál Martin has paid tribute to the musician.

"Deeply saddened at the passing of Moya Brennan - an iconic Irish voice. Along with her Clannad bandmates, Moya brought Irish folk music to the international stage. Deepest sympathies to Moya’s family and friends at this difficult time. Ar dheis Dé go raibh a hanam," he wrote.

Sinn Féin TD Pearse Doherty also paid tribute to Ms Brenann on social media.

He wrote: “Moya gave so much to Ireland and its people”.

💔 Very sad to hear of the passing of Moya Brennan.

Moya gave so much to Ireland and its people. Known as the First Lady of Celtic music, her songs and stories shaped so many lives and will always be cherished.

Moya was proud of her roots. A powerful ambassador for Ireland -… pic.twitter.com/8rS15kBZw3

— Pearse Doherty (@PearseDoherty) April 14, 2026

“A powerful ambassador for Ireland – she took our music, language and culture and shared it with the world.”

She, along with three other family members, formed Clannad in the 1970s and went on to global success.

Their breakthrough, and the beginning of worldwide acclaim, came in 1982 when their theme song for the TV mini-series, Harry's Game, became an international hit. 

Clannad became the first and only act to perform in the Irish language on BBC's Top of the Pops.

In April 2024 Moya was awarded Donegal Person of the Year and the following month, along with her brothers, Ciarán and Pól, Clannad were conferred with the Freedom of Donegal in recognition of their contribution to highlighting the county around the world.

Ms Brennan is survived by her husband, Tim Jarvis, daughter, Aisling, and son, Paul.