Unfortunately we have to let you know of the sad news that Bernard Overton passed away last week. It was quite unexpected and a shock for many. It happened last Saturday when he was on a weekend break with his wife Margaret. She has been trying to contact family first before making it public.
Many will know Bernard but for those who do not, he together with the help of Finbar Furey introduced for the first time in traditional music, lower keyed whistles, most notably the Low D. It is 40 years this year since he made his first whistle and he never stopped making even up to the last days. Before he started making whistles there were no bands playing the lower keyed whistles and when you look around today there are so many musicians/bands in the world that use these instruments. It is quite unbelievable really and also how many instrument makers have started making these instruments since then. What was started back then, certainly has made a big effect on the sound of the music we hear today. Chances are high that one of your favorite bands uses Low whistles. He will be missed a lot by those who had known him.
The funeral will take place on the 30th of June in Coventry, UK.
If anyone would like more information, please send an email to us.
I'm amazed he was in his 70s, seeming in my mind without age. His influences remain and continue to grow... While appreciating his instruments I've never had the pleasure of owning one, but I can think of few sessions where there wasn't one somewhere on hand... 'Iconic' is fitting... I've always wanted one of his whistles, the want remains, someday hopefully, or one from one of his apprentices... He had the wisdom to pass along his understanding and skill to others.
Also my condolences to Bernard's family and friends.
It is always sad when someone leaves our community. Unfortunately I have never had a chance to meet Bernard but will always remember him when playing one the whistles Colin has made for me with Bernard Overton's name on them.
I am sure many others will feel the same and keep his memory alive.
Bernard Overton R.I.P. 1930 - 2008
Bernard Overton R.I.P. 1930 - 2008
Unfortunately we have to let you know of the sad news that Bernard Overton passed away last week. It was quite unexpected and a shock for many. It happened last Saturday when he was on a weekend break with his wife Margaret. She has been trying to contact family first before making it public.
Many will know Bernard but for those who do not, he together with the help of Finbar Furey introduced for the first time in traditional music, lower keyed whistles, most notably the Low D. It is 40 years this year since he made his first whistle and he never stopped making even up to the last days. Before he started making whistles there were no bands playing the lower keyed whistles and when you look around today there are so many musicians/bands in the world that use these instruments. It is quite unbelievable really and also how many instrument makers have started making these instruments since then. What was started back then, certainly has made a big effect on the sound of the music we hear today. Chances are high that one of your favorite bands uses Low whistles. He will be missed a lot by those who had known him.
The funeral will take place on the 30th of June in Coventry, UK.
If anyone would like more information, please send an email to us.
Our thoughts are with Margaret, Dawn and David.
Colin and Brigitte
goldie at overton.de
# Posted on June 21st 2008 by colingoldie
Re: Bernard Overton R.I.P. 1930 - 2008
Chances are also good that a whistle player near you--no matter where you live--has an Overton or two in their quiver.
Even here in Montana USA, Overton's are routinely heard at sessions, owned and played by local musicians.
Our deepest condolences to Bernard's family and friends, and to you Colin.
# Posted on June 21st 2008 by Will Harmon
Re: Bernard Overton R.I.P. 1930 - 2008
Thanks for that, Colin. Sad news indeed. I admit I was not aware of the colossal impact he made on the music.
# Posted on June 21st 2008 by Rudall the time
Re: Bernard Overton R.I.P. 1930 - 2008
That's really sad news. I am very sorry, Colin. The music community will miss him very much.
# Posted on June 21st 2008 by DrSilverSpear
Re: Bernard Overton R.I.P. 1930 - 2008
I'm amazed he was in his 70s, seeming in my mind without age. His influences remain and continue to grow... While appreciating his instruments I've never had the pleasure of owning one, but I can think of few sessions where there wasn't one somewhere on hand... 'Iconic' is fitting... I've always wanted one of his whistles, the want remains, someday hopefully, or one from one of his apprentices... He had the wisdom to pass along his understanding and skill to others.
# Posted on June 22nd 2008 by ceolachan
Re: Bernard Overton R.I.P. 1930 - 2008
Also my condolences to Bernard's family and friends.
It is always sad when someone leaves our community. Unfortunately I have never had a chance to meet Bernard but will always remember him when playing one the whistles Colin has made for me with Bernard Overton's name on them.
I am sure many others will feel the same and keep his memory alive.
# Posted on June 24th 2008 by low b flat
Re: Bernard Overton R.I.P. 1930 - 2008
Sad news, indeed... Deepest condolences from Polish ITM community!
# Posted on June 25th 2008 by Feaorn