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In a stirring homage that bridges oceans and decades, the New York Police Department (NYPD) Choir has breathed new life into a beloved Irish classic, “Galway Bay.” This poignant move, nearly 36 years after the release of The Pogues’ famed song “Fairytale of New York,” has electrified the air with a sense of nostalgia and renewed kinship.

Dublin’s esteemed EPIC, The Irish Emigration Museum, has masterminded this heartwarming project. Bringing together retired NYPD officers and a local amateur choir in New York City’s vibrant heart, this endeavour goes beyond music; it’s a soulful tribute to the global Irish diaspora.

“Fairytale of New York,” often hailed as the anthem for Irish emigration, holds a special place in the hearts of many. Its lyrics, filled with longing and remembrance, have echoed through time. Notably, the line “the boys of the NYPD choir were singing Galway Bay” always stood out, albeit with a twist of irony – the NYPD choir, until now, was a fictional creation.

This year, however, that fiction has turned into a touching reality. The newly assembled NYPD choir’s rendition of “Galway Bay,” penned initially by Irish emigrant Arthur Colahan, is not just a performance; it’s an emblem of identity, transcending geographical borders.

“We take immense pride in highlighting the stories and accomplishments of Irish emigrants,” says Aileesh Carew, CEO of EPIC. “Demonstrating that Irish identity transcends the geographical boundaries of our island.” This sentiment resonates deeply in the choir’s harmonious voices, a melodic bridge linking Ireland to the world.

In Dublin, EPIC’s latest exhibition, “They Gave The Walls A Talking,” further cements this connection. Developed in collaboration with Hot Press, Ireland’s iconic music, entertainment, and pop culture magazine, the exhibition delves into the rich tapestry of The Pogues’ music. It’s a deep dive into the band’s legacy, especially Shane MacGowan’s poignant songwriting.

Nathan Mannion, Head of Exhibitions & Programmes at EPIC, reflects on the exhibition’s significance. “It charts the marvellously wild, fiercely fiery, and wonderfully inspiring contribution The Pogues have made to music in Ireland and across the world,” he remarks.

The NYPD Choir’s rendition of “Galway Bay” captures the essence of this celebration. It’s a melody that resonates with every heartstring tied to the Irish heritage. The performance, available on YouTube and major streaming platforms like Spotify and iTunes, invites listeners to experience a blend of modern homage and timeless tradition.

This story is more than just a musical tribute; it’s a testament to the enduring spirit of Irish culture and its impact on global communities. The NYPD Choir’s undertaking is a reminder of how music can transcend time, space, and even the boundaries of reality. It’s a story of how a single song can become a beacon of identity for a diaspora spread across the globe.

The exhibition at EPIC, running until January 31, 2024, offers a unique opportunity to delve into this rich musical heritage. Visitors can immerse themselves in the history and influence of The Pogues, exploring how their songs have become synonymous with the Irish experience abroad.

The NYPD Choir’s endeavour and EPIC’s exhibition are celebrations of Irish music and tributes to the enduring strength and vibrancy of the Irish community worldwide. As Carew aptly puts it, these initiatives highlight “the stories and accomplishments of Irish emigrants,” underscoring the global resonance of Irish identity.

Discover more about the untold story behind the “Fairytale of New York” and the “They Gave The Walls A Talking” exhibition at EPIC, The Irish Emigration Museum, by visiting www.epicchq.com. This is more than a story; it’s a journey through the heart of Irish culture, echoing across continents and through time.