[Harp-L] Re: Douglas Tate

[Tom Ball <havaball@xxxxxxx>]

This is sad news indeed-- my deepest condolences to Barbara and all 
of Douglas's family and friends.  T'was only in August when I saw him 
last, at Blues Week in Northampton, and although he was ailing a bit, 
his outrageous humour was certainly still in full bloom.  When I 
thanked him for dropping by, his eyes twinkled and he said, "Well, I 
was just dying to see you." I didn't know whether to burst out 
laughing or give him a hug, so I did both.  :)

Living on this side of the pond, I didn't know Douglas as well as 
Roger or Bobbie or many of you here on the L did.  But my respect for 
him was boundless and I always looked forward to crossing his path, 
whether at UKHL gatherings, NAMM, SPAH or wherever it was.  Somehow I 
thought I'd be seeing him again at Blues Week next summer, but I 
guess I'll have to wait now.

I just took a listen to some of Douglas' very fine playing at 
http://www.douglastate.com/media/17%20Trad.mp3   Give it a listen -- 
absolutely lovely (and poignant) stuff.

Cheers, my friend, and even though some of us only play the shorties, 
save us a spot.  :)

-- Tom Ball, lighting a candle and popping a Guinness.