Irish harpist Derek Bell, whose impish sense of humor was often masked by a staid visage during his 30 years with traditional Irish music band the Chieftains, died unexpectedly this week in Phoenix. He was 66.
The cause of his death was not immediately known, nor was the day he died, said Michelle Findlay, who represents the Chieftains for Macklam/Feldman Management.
The group, celebrating its 40th anniversary this year, had finished taping a television special in Nashville in conjunction with its latest album, “Down the Old Plank Road: The Nashville Sessions,” the group’s second collaboration with American country music stars.
Mr. Bell had remained in this country for a routine physical and minor surgery, but had been cleared by doctors to return to Ireland.
“His passing will leave a silence that will never be filled.” band members said in a statement Thursday.
Mr. Bell was both an exceptional harpist and keyboardist who is credited with helping rejuvenate interest in the Irish harp, one of the traditional instruments whose popularity waned after World War II.
