1820s), Cummings was raised near Athenry, where his family had performed and taught music for generations.
The family name was originally rendered Cummins but the spelling was changed to Cummings in his lifetime.
He was given the honorary title of Professor in light of the esteem people held his musical abilities.
Only in 1912, as a result of the Gaelic Revival did he come to a wide audience; previously he performed privately.
He was held, despite his age, to be the equal of Patsy Touhey and Barney Delaney.