Iconic Donegal musician Gay McIntyre honoured at Derry Jazz Festival
Portrait of much-loved musician is unveiled
The family of iconic jazz musician Gay McIntyre were invited by the Mayor of Derry and Strabane, Alderman Graham Warke, to the Guildhall for a special reception in his honour on the opening night of the City of Derry Jazz Festival.
The Mayor, Graham Warke pictured with Irene McIntyre at the Guildhall (Photos: Jim McCafferty Photography)
Born in Stranorlar, Gay grew up in Derry and went on to play with legendary jazz musicians including Nat King Cole and Acker Bilk in a career that spanned 70 years.
He started playing saxophone after his family moved to Derry. He was still a regular performer in recent years and had a weekly gig at the jazz venue Bennigan’s in Derry where he played with younger generations of musicians.
He passed away at his home in Derry in October at the age of 88.
The Mayor of Derry City and Strabane District Council, Graham Warke pictured with members of the Gay McIntyre family at a reception in the Guildhall in his honour
This year’s festival featured a number of tribute events in his honour. Local Jazz legends including Gay's own son, the acclaimed musician Paul McIntyre, came together to celebrate the music that Gay loved and brought to the people of Derry with such passion throughout his life.
The Gay McIntyre Stage was the focal point of the outdoor activity at this year's festival with performances throughout the weekend in the Guildhall Square.