National Choir of the Year trip for Macosquin

The senior choir is one of four vying for a place in the grand final of the children’s category of the event, broadcast on BBC Radio 3.

A total of 16 of the best singing groups in the UK will battle it out on October 16 at Birmingham’s Symphony Hall having won through from the 160 who took part in the audition rounds.

The stakes are high as they bid to out perform each other and become one of the six to secure a place at Wales Millennium Centre, Cardiff, on December 3.

Choral talent appears to be on the rise with newcomers to the competition making up half the category finalists, including the children from Macosquin Primary, who are conducted by Cathy Reid and accompanied by Amanda Doak.

Cathy said: “We are delighted to be representing our town of Coleraine and most importantly to be giving our children the opportunity to shine in the UK. This is by far the biggest competition we have entered to date. The dedication from each child is remarkable and clearly shows their passion and drive to be of their best for the competition.

“Over the last few years we have won numerous first place awards at our local music festival and have received the cup for the highest mark overall for the last two years running. On Friday 18th November we have been invited by Maggie Ferris to sing at The Riverside Theatre in Coleraine for ‘A Night at the Musicals’, an evening where local talent is showcased.

“Our school is steeped in music and we place such am importance on this by offering specialist teaching and music masterclass sessions. Our Senior Choir is renowned in Coleraine for their harmonious singing and their enthusiasm.”

Principal Mrs Louanne McElwee is extremely proud of the children who are currently rehearsing five hours a week, including Saturday afternoons: “The dedication from each child is remarkable and clearly shows their passion and drive to be of their best for the competition.”

There are 35 children travelling to Birmingham along with seven past pupils, now in Year 8.

Presented by popular choral conductor and composer Greg Beardsell, the category finals will feature live feedback back

Macosquin Primary School has set up a page to raise funds for the event and if any businesses etc wish to offer sponsorship they can do so either online or by contacting the school.

The Justigiving page is as follows: https://www.justgiving.com/crowdfunding/Macosquin-choir?utm_id=106&utm_term=gxQmQ7DDJ