On a serene Thursday evening, the historic St. Andrews Church in Bagenalstown resonated with more than just the usual choir practice. I had the privilege of sitting down with the Bagenalstown Folk Choir, a group whose members are bound by a shared love for music that transcends generations. Our conversation that evening was not just about notes and melodies but about the profound role music plays in our lives, weaving through our memories and experiences.

As we gathered in the warm, inviting space of the church, the choir members were eager to share their stories. It was immediately evident how prepared they were for this conversation. Each member had a wealth of musical knowledge, spanning various styles and performers. Our discussion meandered through the nostalgic lanes of yesteryear, reminiscing about beloved television shows and their iconic theme tunes, which often sparked vivid memories of days gone by.

The talk naturally evolved, touching on more somber themes such as the impact of COVID-19 and personal bereavements. Yet, throughout these reflections, the underlying theme of resilience shone through. It became clear that for many in the choir, music had been a comforting and unifying force during challenging times.

Lines were going to be chosen from the conversation to be formed into a song. The choir members each wrote down their favorite song on a piece of paper, and from this collection, one song was chosen to inspire our new creation. The chosen song was Simon & Garfunkel’s “The Boxer,” a timeless piece known for its themes of struggle, resilience, endurance, and hope.

“The Boxer” served as a perfect foundation for this songwriting endeavor. Just as the original song tells a poignant story, we aimed to capture the essence of our evening’s conversation in a similarly narrative style. The verses of our new song narrate personal stories and shared experiences, echoing the conversational tone we had that evening.

The chorus holds a particularly sentimental value, highlighting the simple yet profound joy of having music in our lives, even if it’s just one tape playing in the car. It speaks to the way certain songs and phrases become the soundtrack to our journeys, etching themselves into our memories alongside the places and people we cherish.

The choir members contributed their unique perspectives, resulting in a piece that is both personal and collective. It became a testament to the power of music in bringing people together, providing solace, and celebrating the resilience of the human spirit.

By the end of the evening, music is more than just an art form; it is a thread that connects us to our past, our emotions, and each other. The Bagenalstown Folk Choir’s new song stands as a beautiful tribute to their shared journey and the enduring power of music to inspire and heal.