AUBURN – The death of Maine musician Tom Rowe left many friends and fans shocked.

Rowe, 53, died Saturday morning, according to an announcement on the group Schooner Fare’s Web site.

Rowe played with the Maine-based Schooner Fare for nearly three decades. He also played with Turkey Hollow Consort. He won critical praise for his accomplishments as a musician.

He recently underwent treatment for throat cancer, according to friends.

Details regarding a memorial service will follow, according to the Web site.