(Prog) Dave Swarbrick, best known for his violin and songwriting work in Fairport Convention, has died at the age of 75. The news was confirmed on the band's website.

A statement reads: "It is with sadness that we report the passing of Dave Swarbrick. Described by Ashley Hutchings as 'the most influential fiddle player bar none', he has been acknowledged as an inspiration by both Ric Sanders and Chris Leslie.

"Of the many accolades and awards he received in his long career, the most notable are the BBC Folk Awards Lifetime Achievement, the Gold Badge Of Merit from the British Society of Composers & Songwriters and the EFDSS Gold Badge.

"Swarb's involvement with Fairport Convention began in February 1969 when he was brought in as a session musician to play on Unhalfbricking. He was asked to add a musical dimension (to say nothing of the huge amount of folk credibility) to their reinvention of Sailor's Life.

"The session led to his playing on three other tracks on the LP, including his distinctive contribution to the band's only hit Si Tu Dois Partir. Ultimately, he was asked to join the band full time, which he did (commitments to his work with Martin Carthy duly discharged) in time for the recording of the classic Liege & Lief at the end of 1969. His inestimable contribution to that album together with his key role alongside Dave Pegg in keeping Fairport in existence throughout the 1970s are just two reasons why members, friends and fans of the band owe him a permanent debt of gratitude." Read more here.

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