Castledawson Primary through to next stage of School Choir of the Year

The competition, which is run in association with the Ulster Youth Choir and is supported by the Arts Council, features the best choral talent from Northern Ireland’s primary and secondary schools.

Just before Christmas Castledawson Primary submitted two professionally recorded contrasting songs to the competition.

And they learned last week that they are through to the next stage, which will be held in Derry in February.

“There we will compete against other schools from the different counties in Northern Ireland,” said principal Marina McCusker.

“We are very proud of all our children,” she added, “and are delighted they have this opportunity to showcase their talent in this important competition.

“The choir worked very hard in the run up to Christmas performing at school, church and community events, however, this is their first competition so we are really looking forward to it.

“We really wish our children every success and I know they will benefit so much from these experiences, not only in their development as a choir but also in their own confidence and self-worth.

“We are a small school but everyone matters and we want to instil within each child the concept of believing in themselves and doing their best.”