Laois troop of troubadours from Timahoe all set for big launch

The Timahoe Male Choir is kicking off what is sure to be an exciting year as the Laois musical sensations launch their debut record over the St Valentine's Day Weekend.

After a busy 2024, which saw the Laois men perform at Electric Picnic, they are now putting the final preparations on launching their own charity EP.

The choir, who see themselves as a ‘vocal men’s shed’, first formed just over a year ago, but already have more than 60 members aged from their 20s to 70s.

While the group has been a great addition to the arts and entertainment in Laois, the group’s founder, Damien Bowe, explained how the choir has been crucial in providing a social outlet for men in the area, allowing them to become more involved in their local community.

“The reaction to the choir has been incredible. Our main goal is to get everyone out of their comfort zone and create an environment where people can get to know others in their area.

“We rehearse every Monday night in the pub and then we all sit down for a chat afterwards. MORE BELOW PICTURE.

Timahoe Male Choir members at Electric Picnic. Pic: Alf Harvey

“Loneliness amongst men is a major issue at the moment, and some of the people in the group live by themselves, so this is a fantastic way to get people out and about. It really has had such a positive impact on the mental health of our members,” he said.

The choir has also made an impression on audiences – their performance at last year’s Electric Picnic proved to be a hit, while they also appeared on national television when performing on RTE’s The 2 Johnnies Late Night Lock In.

After launching their first EP, the choir is jetting off to New York in March to perform in the city’s St Patrick’s Day parade.
The upcoming record, which is proudly sponsored by EirGrid, will include five songs, with all proceeds going to The Cuisle Centre and Timahoe National School.

The album’s official launch will take place from 8:30pm on February 15 in the Abbeyleix Manor Hotel. Special guests will also perform on the night, including Mickey Joe Harte, DJ Noel Brennan, the Stradbally Community Choir and singer-songwriter Tim Chambers.

“When we first began singing together, we never imagined we would end up releasing our own record and we would like to thank EirGrid for their help in making this happen,” said Damien.

“Performing in New York on St Patrick’s Day is also a dream come true, and we’re so proud to get the opportunity to represent not only Ireland, but Laois.” MORE BELOW PICTURE.

Timahoe Male Choir fans at Electric Picnic. Pic: Alf Harvey

The EP is supported by EirGrid, operator and developer of the electricity grid. Sinead Dooley is Head of Public Engagement
“It’s clear that the choir has made such a positive contribution to Timahoe, so we are delighted to support the recording of the album.

“At EirGrid, we recognise that communities like these are at the heart of our work to transform the electricity system to cater for a more renewable, secure energy supply, and we look forward to continued collaboration with communities in Laois,” she said.

WATCH: Amazing RTÉ surprise for deserving Laois mother who is Carer of the Year

The Choir will join their old friends the 2 Johnnies to perform at the Pints in a Field festival in St. Anne's Park, Dublin on Saturday, June 7.