Leo Rowsome (1903–1970) was a third generation uilleann piper. His musical and pipe making skills were inherited from his grandfather Samuel Rowsome from Ballintore. Co. Wexford and his father William who established the family pipe making and repair business in Dublin. One of six musical children, Leo was to play a pivotal role in the revival of uilleann piping in Ireland as a pipe maker, performer, teacher, organiser, advocate & publisher. He performed extensively in Ireland and abroad, and broadcast on both radio and televsion. His recording career began in the era of the 78 rpm disc and it is from this period that we present 12 tracks in this audio playlist. Leo recorded with a number of 78 rpm record companies and on vinyl with Claddagh and Topic Records. The labels represented in this selection from 1926–1944 are Columbia, Decca and HMV. The tracks span the range of Irish traditional music dance rhythms as well as airs, and are predominantly solo recordings.
The Rowsome piping tradition continues through fifth and sixth generations of the family in both playing, pipe making and publishing.
The curation of this audio playlist was inspired by the donation of a set of posters and photographs featuring Leo by his daughter Helena. The posters and photographs are featured in an image gallery below as well as some performance related documents.
We would like to thank Helena Rowsome for the images and also the donors of the 78 rpm discs which make up this tribute to the King of the Pipers Leo Rowsome.
