TOWARDS the end of the 18th century the face of Europe was changed by a wave of cultural and creative activity.
Banbridge’s own blind piper. William Kennedy was part of that upheaval, according to a book entitled ‘A Biography of the Blind’ written by James Wilson in 1821, containing an interview with William Kennedy, who was still alive.
William Kennedy was born near Banbridge in 1768. He lost his sight when he was four years of age. When he was thirteen he was sent to Mr Moorehead in Armagh to learn how to play the fiddle.
At that time it was customary to send blind children to train as musicians so that they could earn a living. William made good progress and stayed there for over a year lodging with a cabinet maker who taught him how to use tools.