Memorial Service for Na Fidleiri Co-Founder and Music Educator
Mary Scott Taylor, a beloved music educator and co-founder of the cultural ensemble Na Fidleiri, passed away on December 9, 2025, in Charleston after a battle with cancer. In honor of her contributions to music and education, an ecumenical memorial service will be held on April 12 at the Circular Congregational Church located at 150 Meeting St., Charleston. The service is scheduled from 1:30 PM to 2:30 PM, followed by a performance of Handel’s “Messiah,” featuring members of the Charleston Symphony and the Taylor Festival Choir at 3 PM.
A Lifelong Commitment to Music Education
Born on June 13, 1960, to Joseph and Joan Scott, who immigrated from Ireland to Beaumont, Texas, Taylor grew up in a musical household. Her parents nurtured her talents, which led her to pursue a Bachelor’s degree in violin from Lamar University and a Master’s degree in string performance and pedagogy from Sam Houston State University.
Taylor began her music career in McAllen, Texas, where she led award-winning orchestras and gained recognition at the Texas Music Educators Association conference. Later, she established music programs across various schools, including the strings program at Ashley Hall in Charleston. Throughout her career, she performed with the Charleston Symphony Orchestra for over 20 years and collaborated with notable traditional musicians.
In addition to her teaching, Taylor co-founded Na Fidleiri, a young ensemble that blends classical music with Irish traditions. Her husband, Robert Taylor, noted that she aimed to instill a love of Irish folk tunes in her students to inspire their lifelong musical pursuits. Under her leadership, Na Fidleiri became a regional success, performing widely and earning acclaim during tours in Ireland and at the Savannah Irish Festival.
Taylor was also dedicated to community service through her final project, the Pathways to Healing Initiative. This initiative focused on aiding patients dealing with physical and mental challenges, where she performed and wrote musical arrangements for various healthcare facilities.
She is survived by her husband Rob, her daughter Kiri, her sister Shona Honey, and extended family in the U.S., Ireland, and the U.K. Contributions to honor her legacy can be made to the Mary Taylor Memorial Fund.
Why It Matters
Mary Taylor’s impact on the local music community and her dedication to fostering musical talent among young students will be remembered through her contributions to education and performance. The memorial service and ensuing concert will not only commemorate her life and work but also celebrate the vibrant musical legacy she leaves behind in Charleston and beyond.
