With a legacy of heartfelt harmonies and Celtic tradition, Celtic Thunder has built a reputation for delivering unforgettable performances.

That legacy took on an even more emotional tone during the group’s 10th Anniversary Cruise in 2017, when Neil Byrne and Ryan Kelly surprised fans by inviting Damian McGinty to the stage for a stirring rendition of The Garden.

The special moment unfolded after Byrne and Kelly spoke about marking not just ten years of Celtic Thunder, but also five years of their own Byrne & Kelly collaboration. Looking for a way to make the milestone celebration unique, they decided to bring out a “fan”—who turned out to be none other than original Celtic Thunder member Damian McGinty.

As soon as McGinty stepped into the spotlight, the crowd erupted into cheers. The Irish singer, known for his smooth baritone and boy-next-door charm, confessed his love for The Garden before joining Byrne and Kelly in three-part harmony.

Backed by Nicole Hudson on violin and Peter Sheridan on keyboards, the trio delivered a breathtaking performance that drew tears of joy and nostalgia from longtime fans.

What made the set so memorable wasn’t just the exquisite vocal blend, but the sense of brotherhood on stage. As fans later recalled, “Throw in that 3rd harmony with Damian and it becomes something spectacular.” From the first note, the audience was wrapped in the warmth of the music, many visibly moved by the reunion of the three singers who had defined so many Celtic Thunder memories.

The applause that followed was thunderous, with one fan writing online, “This song always brings tears to my eyes, good tears of very happy memories.” Another shared, “The three of you need to add that to your shows and albums. Love these guys. Love Ryan.” For others, it was a moment of pure nostalgia—reminders of family singalongs, cherished concerts, and the timeless comfort of Celtic music.

As Kelly summed it up on stage, “You just witnessed something very special there.” And special it was—a performance that celebrated not only the enduring power of Celtic Thunder but also the bonds of friendship that continue to unite its members.

What to know about The Garden by Byrne & Kelly

The Garden is one of Byrne & Kelly’s most beloved original songs, first introduced to fans during their acoustic tours following their Celtic Thunder years.

Known for its lush harmonies and poetic lyrics, the song reflects themes of peace, reflection, and the cycles of life, resonating deeply with audiences across generations. When Damian McGinty joined Neil Byrne and Ryan Kelly to perform the piece live on the 10th Anniversary Cruise, it created a full-circle moment that highlighted the song’s emotional weight and the trio’s shared history.