John Madden

John Madden was a gifted multi-instrumentalist, singer, storyteller, and devoted volunteer whose remarkable knowledge of traditional music enriched Winnipeg’s Scottish, Irish, and folk communities.

Raised in Ottawa and Winnipeg, John attended the University of Manitoba and continued working at the university following his graduation.

Music was central to John’s life, particularly the traditional music of Britain and Ireland. A talented musician who played several instruments, he performed with Borealis and the Flying Haggis Band. The Flying Haggis Band became a popular annual feature at Folklorama’s Pavilion of Scotland, where John helped fill the Pavilion with lively music, humour, and Celtic spirit.

John was also a member of Comhaltas Ceoltóirí Éireann, an organization dedicated to preserving and promoting traditional Irish music. He shared his voice through the Bison Men’s Chorus and the Irish Myst Choir, finding great enjoyment and fellowship in both groups.

His musical knowledge was vast, and his repertoire ranged from traditional songs to the more mischievous and irreverent selections with which he frequently entertained his friends. John’s quick wit and delight in a good song made gatherings livelier whenever he was present.

John gave generously of his time to Winnipeg’s cultural community. He was a perennial volunteer with the Winnipeg Folk Festival and the West End Cultural Centre, belonged to the Winnipeg Robert Burns Club, and even briefly brought his talents to the Winnipeg Fringe Theatre Festival.

He was particularly devoted to the Irish Association of Manitoba, serving for many years on its Board of Directors and supporting a wide range of club programs and events.

John passed away peacefully at St. Boniface Hospital on October 14, 2011, at the age of 64.