Farmers’ Choir AGM marks growth and success in Ballymena

The Farmers’ Choir Northern Ireland Committee Members

The Farmers’ Choir Northern Ireland has marked a year of continued growth, strong community engagement and musical success at its fourth Annual General Meeting, held recently at Ballymena Academy.

Members gathered to reflect on a busy and productive year for the choir, which has continued to expand its audience reach while strengthening its role as a social and cultural outlet for people from rural and farming backgrounds across Northern Ireland.

Strong performances and growing audiences

Outgoing Chairperson Dawn Stewart presented a review of the past year, highlighting a particularly active Christmas period. During that season, the choir performed to combined live audiences of more than 1,000 people and also attracted hundreds of views across social media platforms.

Ms Stewart thanked choir members for their ongoing support and commitment throughout the year and confirmed her intention to step down from her role as Chairperson.

Musical growth and social value highlighted

Musical Director Barkley Thompson described the year as both busy and highly successful, pointing to a wide range of performances that demonstrated the choir’s growing confidence, versatility and musical development.

He also emphasised the wider human and social impact of the group, saying:

“Beyond musical outcomes, the social value of the choir remains a key strength. The group continues to provide an important space for connection, wellbeing, and enjoyment, particularly for those from rural and farming backgrounds.

“The sense of camaraderie within the choir is one of its greatest assets and contributes directly to its sustainability”.

Mr Thompson expressed his thanks to accompanists Maurice Christie, Roseanna Hunter and Grace Dornan, as well as to committee members and choir members for their continued dedication and support.

Financial overview and governance

Treasurer Pamela Duddy circulated copies of the 2025 financial report and provided members with a summary of the choir’s income and expenditure.

The AGM also included the election of office bearers for the year ahead, confirming the following appointments:

• Patron: Robin Swann MP

• President: Dawn Stewart

• Chairperson: Johnston Adams

• Vice Chairperson: James Anderson

• Musical Director: Barkley Thompson

• Secretary: Olive Dixon

• Treasurer: Pamela Duddy

• Membership Secretary: Andew Mackey

• Publicity Officer: Linda Warwick

Additional committee members elected were Carol Hill, Catherine Crawford, Jenny Kirk, Roberta Hayes and William Purcell.

Patron’s message and plans ahead

Patron Robin Swann MP congratulated all members taking up new roles and wished the newly elected committee and the choir every success in the year ahead.

Rehearsals have now resumed as the Farmers’ Choir prepares for its forthcoming Spring Performances and looks forward to welcoming new members, continuing its role as a source of musical enjoyment, wellbeing and community connection.