Biography

Pauline Wells

Pauline Wells is an accomplished Singer/Performer/Patriotic Vocalist including Irish and American Genres. Pauline was born in Brighton and raised in North Cambridge. She is a graduate of North Cambridge Catholic. After high school, she worked her way through college, earning a bachelor of arts in business from the University of Massachusetts, and a graduate degree in Criminal Justice Administration from Anna Maria College.

Outside of music Pauline has served in the Cambridge Police Department since 1993, where she currently holds the rank of Deputy Superintendent. Pauline is only the second woman to rise through the ranks to this command position.

Her musical career came by accident. While on vacation in Ireland in 2000, she joined a traditional Irish sing song one night at a local pub. That one ballad turned out to be just the beginning. Initially, Pauline shunned singing at all, especially in public, but the attacks of September 11th 2001 changed all of that. It was a time in America where pride, humanity and unity prevailed. Pauline decided to teach herself to sing the National Anthem of the United States. Her first appearances included small community events and local ceremonies. Pauline eventually overcame her shy nervous manner. Today, her vocal renditions are heard widely. They are described by listeners as spirited and pure. Pauline also publicly performs the national anthems of Canada (her Dad immigrated from Newfoundland) and Ireland which she sings in native Gaelic. In this symbolic genre, she has performed at over 500 public events.

Some of her venues include:

  • The Massachusetts State House
  • Harvard University
  • Fenway Park
  • Gillette Stadium
  • TD Garden
  • The Wilbur Theatre
  • The National Mall, Washington DC

One of Pauline’s most memorable presentations came in 2011 when she performed for the NYPD 9/11 memorial concert in honor of the 3000 victims of that fateful day at Old Town Hall, New York City’s oldest theater for the performing arts. An honored appearance she would repeat five years later in 2016.

In 2006, Pauline was stricken with sudden acute hearing loss (AHL). This unknown virus would cause complete and permanent hearing deprivation in her left ear. While some thought her singing career would end, she has persevered. Pauline credits much of her singing success to one man, the internationally acclaimed Baritone, Mr. Robert Honeysucker of Cambridge. In 2003, Pauline auditioned for vocal training at the prestigious Longy School of Music and was selected as a student by Mr. Honeysucker. For the next 14 years, Pauline and Robert shared not only the relationship of teacher/student but also good friends. Sadly, Pauline lost her beloved teacher when he died suddenly in 2017.

Pauline’s vocal ability crosses many genres of music including Classical, Pop, Religious, Celtic, Folk and Rock and Roll. She directs all of her musical efforts at civic and charitable causes. Since 2009 Pauline has been very fortunate to headline numerous charitable concerts, raising thousands of dollars supporting children with cancer, military veterans, victims of homicide, foster children, the homeless, and the advocacy for abused kids. For several years, Pauline has also volunteered her time to perform at many United States Naturalization ceremonies, recognizing newly sworn American citizens. She cherishes these musical opportunities and the incredible people she has met.

Her musical career has afforded her many fantastic opportunities to share the stage with a variety of musicians.

Some notable artists/groups include:

  • Dr. Ronan Tynan
  • New York City Police Emerald Society Pipes and Drums
  • The Artane Band of Dublin Ireland
  • Finbar Furey
  • Boston Police Gaelic Column

Pauline also shares a very close relationship with the local Boston band, Devri who have joined her for many public concerts and benefits. She believes music soothes “the soul” and cherishes the people who have touched her life and the audiences she has entertained.
Pauline resides in Milton with her husband Richard and daughter Molly.

For additional information go to www.paulinewells.com.