YFCU Choir Festival Hits the Right Note in Magherafelt

The Young Farmers’ Clubs of Ulster hosted its annual Choir Festival, proudly sponsored by Power NI, on Friday 5th December 2025 at Rainey Endowed School, Magherafelt. The evening brought together talent, community spirit and festive cheer as five YFCU choirs took to the stage to showcase their musical abilities.

Choirs from Curragh YFC, Moneymore YFC, Moycraig YFC, Collone YFC and Kilraughts YFC delivered outstanding performances, treating the audience to a vibrant mix of festive classics and contemporary hits. Each group brought its own unique style and energy, creating an uplifting atmosphere enjoyed by all in attendance.

We were delighted to be joined by Amy Bennington from Power NI. Power NI's Marketing Manager, Amy Bennington, commented: “We were delighted to support the Choir Festival again as part of our Platinum Sponsorship of the YFCU, and it's always a great event to kick off the festive season every year. Well done to all the clubs that entered and provided a great programme of music on the night. A huge congratulations to all the award winners, particularly Moneymore YFC on a well-deserved first place win!"

 We also heard from esteemed Guest Speaker Sheelagh Greer, who inspired those present with her encouraging and heartfelt words on the value of music and youth development.

Adjudicating on the night was renowned music professional Darren Day, who mentioned that he struggled to decide which of the choirs would take the top spots as he was so impressed by every choir in attendance. Darren stated “I was looking for a choir who would tell a story with their performance. I want to believe everything they are singing and be brought along for the journey. I want to see the passion in someone’s eyes and in their facial expressions.” He said a massive Well done to all choirs, accompanists and conductors.

The awards were presented by Amy Bennington, Power NI. The winners of the evening were:

·         Best Solo – James McConnell, Collone YFC

·         Best Choral Piece – Moneymore YFC with “Make your own kind of music”

·         Best Accompaniment – Roseanna Hunter, Moneymore YFC

·         3^rd Place Overall – Collone YFC

·         2^nd Place Overall – Curragh YFC

·         1^st Place Overall – Moneymore YFC

The YFCU extends sincere thanks to all participating choirs, supporters, and partners. The Choir Festival continues to be a highlight of the YFCU events calendar, celebrating creativity, collaboration and the talent within our rural communities.

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