Mayor of Kilkenny opens book of condolences for Glen Hansard

Mayor of Kilkenny, Cllr Andrew McGuinness, has opened a book of condolences for the late Glen Hansard.

“As Mayor of Kilkenny, and a music lover, I am deeply saddened by the passing of Glen Hansard,” he explained.

“Glen’s music gave voice to so many emotions that words alone could never express. Through his songs, his generosity, and his unwavering belief in the power of music, he inspired countless young musicians to pick up an instrument, find their own voice, and believe that their stories mattered.”

Cllr McGuinness added that Kilkenny “has always shared a special connection with music” and noted that “Glen’s warmth, authenticity, and encouragement of emerging artists resonated far beyond Dublin.”

He continued: “His legacy will live on in every stage he inspired, every song he influenced, and every young musician who found the courage to perform because Glen showed them it was possible.

“On behalf of the people of Kilkenny, I extend my deepest sympathies to Glen’s family, friends, fellow musicians, and all who loved him. Ireland has lost one of its greatest musical voices, but his songs and his spirit will continue to inspire generations to come.

“Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam.”

Later today, the funeral of Glen Hansard is due to take place in Dublin.

It comes after thousands of mourners attended a public wake for the musician at the Baroque Chapel at the Irish Museum of Modern Art at the Royal Hospital Kilmainham on Monday.

The frontman of Irish band The Frames was killed at the age of 56 in a motorcycle crash on the outskirts of Dublin last week, hours after taking part in a trad session at The Wren’s Nest pub.

He had featured in celebrated film The Commitments, and won an Oscar for best original song for Falling Slowly in 2008, which he co-wrote with Marketa Irglova for the movie Once.

He began an annual Christmas Eve charity busk outside the Gaiety Theatre 16 years ago, drawing members of the public to see famous Irish musicians perform in aid of the homeless in the city.

His funeral service will take place at St Patrick’s Cathedral at 1.30pm.

To sign the Kilkenny book of condolences for Glen Hansard, click here.