The timeless themes of love, longing, and homecoming find new expression in A Boston Christmas, a beautiful moving new Christmas song written by Tim Collins and recorded by the legendary Kilfenora Céilí Band.
Featuring the expressive vocals of Ger O’Donnell, Fiona Ryan, and the angelic voices of The Young Notes Choir under the direction of Úna Clune, this beautiful collaboration captures the deep emotional ties that connect Ireland and its diaspora at Christmas time.
Set against the backdrop of emigration, A Boston Christmas tells the story of two hearts separated by the Atlantic — one in Boston, the other in Ireland — united only by memory, hope, and the warm glow of a candle in the window. The image of that candle, a symbol of love and welcome, becomes a poignant beacon connecting loved ones across the ocean during the festive season.
Tim Collins, known for his evocative songwriting and deep connection to Irish tradition, penned the song a few years back. Speaking about the inspiration behind it, he said:
“So many Irish families have experienced that empty chair at Christmas. The candle in the window is such a powerful image of connection — it says, you’re still part of home, no matter how far away you are. That’s the heart of this song.”
The Kilfenora Céilí Band brings its trademark warmth, depth, and musicianship to the recording, weaving together a traditional Irish sound with contemporary emotion and sensibility. The wonderful voices of Ger O’Donnell, Fiona Ryan, and The Young Notes Choir add a rich choral texture that heightens the song’s emotive sense of longing and hope.
A Boston Christmas is a song for anyone who’s ever missed a loved one at Christmas — and a reminder that love, like a candle’s light, can cross any distance.
Upcoming concerts:
January 2nd – glór Ennis
January 3rd – glór Ennis
January 24th – Grand Opera House Belfast
January 31st – Tintean Theatre Ballybunnion Co Kerry