Barnstaple Ladies Choir strikes a chord in Northern Ireland

The Barnstaple Ladies Choir has just returned from what they described as a “wonderful weekend” trip to Northern Ireland, marking a significant milestone as they celebrate their 40th anniversary this year. 

The trip held special meaning, as their Music Director, Lorraine Homewood, comes from Ballycastle.

During the weekend, the choir visited iconic landmarks such as the Titanic Experience and the Giant’s Causeway, where they were honoured to be given permission to perform at both locations. 

Their voices filled these renowned sites, making the experience even more memorable for the group.

On Saturday night, the choir took to the stage at Ballymoney Town Hall alongside the Ballymoney Male Voice Choir, performing to a full house of 400 people. 

The performance ended with a standing ovation.

The following evening, they travelled to Banbridge Church to join the Portadown Male Voice Choir, performing to a capacity crowd of 600. 

Representing Barnstaple, the choir enjoyed meeting fellow choristers and audience members.

Reflecting on the weekend, a choir spokesperson said: “We were so proud to represent our town and meet amazing Choristers and audience members who we had great fun chatting to.”

The Barnstaple Ladies Choir has already extended an invitation to the Ballymoney and Portadown choirs to visit North Devon, hoping to return the hospitality.

Grateful to their sponsors for supporting the trip, the choir is now looking ahead to a busy concert schedule, especially in the run-up to Christmas.

For any local women interested in joining, the choir welcomes new members. 

The choir told the Gazette: “There are many bonuses in joining a Choir, singing with friends shared experiences, relieving stress and also to help raise money for good causes. We would love to hear from you.”

Those keen to join can contact the choir via Facebook Messenger or by emailing barnstapleladieschoir@gmail.com.