Micheál Martin, Michael D Higgins, Ryan Tubridy and more pay tribute following death of Oscar-winning musician Glen HansardGlen Hansard performing with The Frames at the Sydney Opera House in 2013. Photograph: Lisa Maree Williams/Getty Images Tributes have poured in following the death of Irish musician and actor Glen Hansard, who has died aged 56. Hansard, who won an Oscar in 2008 for the song Falling Slowly from the film Once, which he wrote with Markéta Irglová, died in a motorcycle crash in Dublin on Wednesday.Taoiseach Micheál Martin said he was “deeply saddened” by the death of Hansard who was “a talented musician and actor who made a significant contribution to Ireland’s cultural landscape over many years”.In a post on social media, Mr Martin wrote: “Deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Glen Hansard.“A talented musician and actor who made a significant contribution to Ireland’s cultural landscape over many years. My sincere sympathies to his family, friends, and fans. Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam.”Former president Michael D Higgins shared his condolences, describing Hansard as “a troubadour whose gift for storytelling brought so much joy to audiences across the world”.“From his early days busking on Dublin’s streets through to his work with The Frames, the Swell Season with Markéta Irglová, and on to his very successful solo career, Glen captured the attention of all who listened and rightly developed a loyal following all across the world,” Higgins said.“Throughout his career, Glen made a particularly noteworthy effort to keep alive the work of all those who had gone before him, keeping alive the songs of previous generations of Irish musicians and singers who had influenced him, as well as the songs of departed friends such as Mic Christopher and Fergus O’Farrell.“Glen also placed great emphasis throughout his life to the importance of talking the problems of society, including regular work in drawing attention to the problem of homelessness. This work drove his annual Christmas Eve busk, which raised money for those suffering from homelessness and related causes at Christmas.”Hansard also made an “indelible impression in Irish film”, Higgins said, citing his roles in the Commitments and John Carney’s Once.“May I express my deepest condolences to Glen’s wife Máire, to his son Christy, and to all his family, friends, band mates, fellow musicians and fans, who I know will all by so saddened by this shocking news,” Higgins said.In a post on Instagram, former Late Late Show presenter Ryan Tubridy also paid tribute to the musician: “It’s with the heaviest of hearts I post a few words about Glen Hansard who has died. I’ve been a fan, an admirer and thanks to multiple chats on TV and radio, an interviewer of this extraordinarily talented singer and storyteller.“Apart from his talent as an artist, he also cared. He cared about the homeless and he cared about Ireland. The Oscar, the achievements and the humanity were all part of a life well lived,” Tubridy said.“Condolences to Glen’s family and his legion of fans. We have lost one of the greats. May he rest in peace.”Irish rock group Aslan released a statement describing Hansard as “incredibly talented.”“We’re here in the rehearsal studio, and the news has completely floored us,” the band’s members said. “Glen was a remarkable artist whose music touched so many lives, and his loss will be felt far and wide.”[ Glen Hansard: A life and music career in picturesOpens in new window ]Minister for Arts and Culture Patrick O’Donovan said few artists made as big an impact on modern Irish storytelling as Hansard.“From his early days busking on the streets of Dublin, through The Commitments, to founding rock outfit The Frames, Hansard consistently poured passion and vulnerability into every note. “His impact will last generations in Irish music, even as his life has ended far too soon.”Mike Scott of the Waterboys also paid tribute: “Travel on well, Buddy. You made your dreams come true. I’m so sorry that he leaves his wife and 3-year-old child.”A statement released by the National Concert Hall (NCH) described Hansard as “a cherished presence” on the stage who captivated audiences on several occasions at the venue.“Glen’s remarkable contribution to music and culture, both in Ireland and internationally, leaves an enduring legacy. He will be remembered not only for his extraordinary artistry but also for his generosity of spirit and unwavering commitment to using his voice for the greater good,” the NCH said.IN THIS SECTION