Farmers’ Choir NI celebrates successful start to new season
Farmers’ Choir NI has made a strong start to its new season, with recent media attention and recognition at both Northern Ireland and UK level.
The cross-community choir brings together farmers, people working in agriculture and members of rural communities. More than 40 members travel each Monday evening to rehearse at Ballymena Academy.
While singing is at the heart of the choir, friendship and community are equally important. Members often arrive straight from the farm or work, but rehearsals provide an opportunity to relax, catch up with friends and enjoy an evening of music and laughter.
Musical director Barkley Thompson said: “It has been brilliant to see everyone back and to feel the enthusiasm at rehearsals. Farmers’ Choir is about singing, but it is also about friendship and bringing people together.
“There is a real sense of community within the choir, with plenty of laughter and craic. I think that is a big part of what keeps people coming back.”
The choir has also enjoyed a boost in profile in recent weeks, with members featuring on BBC Newsline and Cool FM, highlighting the work of Farmers’ Choir and its role within farming and rural communities.
The media coverage follows a successful start to the season for the choir, which has also brought significant award recognition.
At the Northern Ireland Farming Awards, Farmers’ Choir NI was Highly Commended in the Society of the Year category. The choir has also reached the final of the Making Music UK Group of the Year Award 2026 and is the only finalist from Northern Ireland.
Farmers’ Choir NI chairperson Johnston Adams said: “It has been a fantastic start to season for the choir. To be Highly Commended at the Northern Ireland Farming Awards and to reach the final of the Making Music UK Group of the Year Award is a tremendous achievement. We are very proud of our members.”
The choir’s success extends beyond the concert stage. During the summer, its treasure hunt attracted 35 cars and more than 120 people, bringing members, families and friends together for an evening of fun, followed by refreshments and prizes at Ballymena Academy.
The new season now continues with a busy programme of concerts and events, including the Harvest Hooley at Breckenhill, a Harvest Service at Ballyrashane Presbyterian Church, Christmas concerts at The Braid Arts Centre, Ballymena, and A Festival of Nine Lessons and Carols at St Patrick’s Parish Church, Kilrea, and Drummaul Parish Church, Randalstown.
Farmers’ Choir NI continues to welcome new members. Anyone who enjoys singing and wants to be part of a friendly, welcoming group connected to rural communities is encouraged to get involved.
With another busy season ahead, Farmers’ Choir NI is continuing to bring people together through singing, friendship and community.