Four major young forces in music are to converge on a citadel of song – specially for Newry’s culture and community festival Iúr Cinn Fleadh.
They are Aoife, Daire and Méabh Downey – along with Niamh Noade, who’s often described as ‘The Girl With The Harp’.
All four are accomplished musicians, and will unite for a special afternoon concert on 25 August at Newry Methodist Church – a denomination known for its musical muscle.
CHAMBER CHOIRS
Aoife Downey was leader of the South Ulster Youth Band and a former member of the National Youth Choir of Northern Ireland. She now studies music at Manchester University. There, Aoife has performed in several concerts, being a member of both university chamber choirs and is vice-president of the university chorus.
Daire Downey is Northern Ireland Young Musician of the Year 2024. He has just finished sitting his A levels in St Colman’s College, and has a wide range of musical interests. Daire has diplomas in piano and musical theatre.
Méabh Downey has been a member of the National Youth Choir of Northern Ireland and played clarinet with the South Ulster Youth Band. She has competed extensively across Ireland. Méabh is going into her third year at Edinburgh University, where she studies voice.
Niamh Noade made the final of ‘The Voice Kids’, coached by singer Ronan Keating. Keating said he felt ‘frozen in a moment’ when he first heard Niamh. She has been a finalist in BBC Young Soloist finalist and the TG4 search for an Irish Junior Eurovision act. Niamh co-hosted the music and healing workshop at Iúr Cinn Fleadh last year, where she left attendees spellbound with her cover of Kate Bush’s Running Up That Hill.
CHARLES WESLEY
So what is the venue’s big musical connection? The Methodist denomination is well known for its musical history – from the highly prolific hymn writer Charles Wesley to pop singer Beyoncé. Yes, along with a number of other famous singers and musicians, Beyoncé is a Methodist – though as far as we know, she hasn’t worshipped at the Newry church – yet!
The concert is free to attend, and starts at 4pm. This gives festivalgoers plenty of time to get their tea before going on to see Altan at Newry Town Hall later in the evening! It will be a special Sunday indeed for many. (Pictured left to right above – Niamh Noade, Méabh Downey and below – Daire Downey and Aoife Downey)
