By Mike Murphy
© 2013 All Rights Reserved
I remember my Uncle Jack trying to show me how to play the fiddle when I was around 6 years old but my fingers were too small and I didn't have the strength in them yet.
I never did end up playing fiddle but first took up playing drums and would play along to his fiddling whenever we got together. I started out on pots and pans and I'm sure my Aunt Leanna put up with my banging on them and my drums many times in my childhood.
When I switched to guitar at age 12 I got to play a few places and gatherings with him. One being the Hants County Exhibition. I sure enjoyed that. Meeting all the people and watching their smiling faces as we played. I learned early on that it was all for the people. Uncle Jack loved to see people having fun and especially enjoyed it if they really listened. Music was always in our family. Uncle Jack and his brother (my Dad Jim) used to play live on a radio show from Windsor and Kentville, Nova Scotia in the 50's called "Jack Murphy and The Hants County Rhythm Boys", as well as playing many dances with their musical friends. Many times they would come back home after the gig and jam till the early hours and I got to sneak out and listen and learn. Those were magical times. I used to listen to the tapes Dad had of those days. Music has changed since then but one thing that hasn't is my gratitude and thanks to my Uncle Jack for teaching me the old time music and giving me precious memories of him and those times to cherish.
Music and horses were two of his favourite pastimes and he was always involved with these as a way of life. My Aunt Leanna I know, has many great and I'm sure some comical memories of Uncle Jack and his many adventures. There was never a dull moment. I thank her for putting up with the both of us working on tunes in the kitchen usually while she worked around us. Because of my Mom's passing when I was 10, I used to spend time with them when I could and it sure helped ease my pain. Aunt Leanna, you were a loving and so devoted wife to Uncle Jack (especially when his health was failing) and I sure thank you for that and all that you and Uncle Jack have given me in both memories and love. My boys nor Tammy never got to meet him but I will make sure they know who he was and what a positive influence he had on my life and musical journey. Whenever I play my guitar there has always been a bit of Uncle Jack's soul in my playing and now there will be just that little bit more.
This was read at my Uncle Jack's funeral.
R.I.P. Uncle Jack Murphy. Your musical soul lives on in me.
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