Farmers’ Choir NI celebrates successful year after raising more than £5,000 for charities and rural groups

Farmers’ Choir NI performing at their Spring Concert in the Braid Arts Centre

Music, friendship and support for rural communities have helped make it another memorable year for Farmers’ Choir NI, with the group raising more than £5,000 for charities and Young Farmers’ Clubswhile preparing for a new season of concerts this autumn.

The registered charity, which brings together members from farming communities across Northern Ireland, says rehearsals will resume in September following a season that combined performances, fundraising and community events.

More than music

Alongside its Carol Service, Christmas concerts and Spring Concert, the choir also hosted its Arts Festival Showcase, bringing together Young Farmers’ Clubs from across Northern Ireland to celebrate music, performance and rural talent.

The season concluded with a summer barbecue for members, featuring entertainment from Brian Rankin, marking the end of another busy year before rehearsals restart after the summer break.

While the choir is centred on music, members say it also provides an important social outlet, helping to reduce isolation and strengthen friendships within farming and rural communities.

Thousands raised for good causes

The choir conducted by their Musical Director Barkley Thompson

Supporting local charities remains a major part of the choir’s work.

A special Christmas concert in Larne raised £2,012 for Larne Foodbank, while further donations of £1,100 each were made to Northern Ireland Hospice and Rural Support.

The choir also donated £900, shared equally between Finvoy, Garvagh and Randalstown Young Farmers’ Clubs, recognising their work with young people in rural communities.

The organisation thanked the local businesses whose sponsorship and donations helped make its concerts and fundraising activities possible throughout the year.

Looking ahead

Musical Director Barkley Thompson said the choir had become about far more than singing.

“It is a privilege to work with such an incredible group of people. Farmers’ Choir NI is truly unique, bringing together people from farming and rural communities from right across the province.

“We enjoy making great music, sharing plenty of craic and building lifelong friendships, but the choir is about so much more than singing. It plays an important role in supporting the health, wellbeing and social connection of our farming and rural communities and I couldn’t be prouder of everything we have achieved together this year.”

Choir Member William Purcell acts the 'Auld Farmer'

Chairperson Johnston Adams said members were already looking forward to welcoming audiences back later this year.

“As we reflect on another fantastic year, we are already looking forward to welcoming everyone back when rehearsals resume in September.

“We have a full programme of concerts and events planned, and we’re excited to continue sharing our music with audiences across Northern Ireland. We would encourage everyone to come along, enjoy the music and join us at one of our events during the coming season – you’re guaranteed a warm welcome.”

New members welcome

Farmers’ Choir NI is now preparing for its new season, with rehearsals beginning in September ahead of a programme of concerts and community events.

The choir welcomes new members from across Northern Ireland’s farming and rural communities, as well as anyone interested in supporting its performances throughout the year.