Portlaoise Singers set to sparkle once again with annual Christmas Concert

After a year out The Portlaoise Singers are back again for their 48th annual Christmas concert that is sure to get you into the festive mood with the best local voices and musical talent.

This year's concert takes place on Sunday, December 15 at 8 pm in St Peter’s Church on Market Square. As usual, you'll hear all your favourite Christmas music sung in four and five-part arrangements.

The singers will be joined by award-winning soloists Caoimh Fitzpatrick and Sophie MacNamara. The pipe organ will be played by Donall Hennessy who holds a first class honours degree in organ performance.

The 2024 special guest this year will be Triona Marshall. Triona has a worldwide reputation as a harpist, especially for her work with The Chieftains with whom she made 30 worldwide tours. On this occasion, she will perform on the Irish harp.

The choir was formed in 1975, Chris Clarken, of the Portlaoise and District Arts Society, approached fellow teacher Brendan MacNamara about getting singers together for a Passion Play which didn't happen but the assembled singers stayed together and thus were born the Portlaoise Singers.

Since then, their repertoire has included everything from popular songs and seasonal favourites to demanding classical pieces.

The choir have won first prizes at Cork International, France and Wales. They have appeared on RTÉ and sung many times on RTÉ radio. They have also sung in the Albert Hall in London.

Tickets €10 euro are available at Browns Gala at Church View, Bosco's Gala on Grattan St and on the door on the night.

All are welcome what sure to be a lovely evening of festive entertainment.