Billy Furlong
Honored June 8, 2019
I was raised in the Kingsbridge section of the Bronx. My parents Phil (Ballywilliam, Wexford) & Mary nee Farrell (Ballymahon, Longford) instilled my love of Irish Music as it was always heard in our home. My Father played a single row Hohner Button Accordion & was a Mummer and my Mom played the fiddle. I was taught by Pete Kelly and Martin Mulvihill & took Irish Step Dancing lessons from Peter Smith and Roger Casey. In my younger days I loved to spend time in the Bunratty Pub located on Kingsbridge Road, in the Bronx where Andy McGann, Paddy Reynolds, Johnny Cronin & numerous other great musicians played each weekend. All of whom influenced my playing. I was a member of the New York City Police Department for twenty years, retiring at the rank of Lieutenant. I reside in Malverne, N.Y with my wife Patricia; we have three sons’ Andrew, Matty & Liam all of whom play Irish Music. I have competed at the Fleadh Cheoil in 2003, 2004 & 2017 in the Senior Ceili Band Competition.
I have played at numerous Irish Feisanna across the United States & Canada and at the Oirechtas Rince na Cruinne held in Philadelphia & Boston. I am very grateful for having received this honor. I thank my family & friends for all their support. I congratulate my fellow honorees & wish them all the best!