'Joyful' young Offaly voices take part in Singfest 2026

Almost 1,800 young singers from Offaly and Westmeath gathered at the John Count McCormack Hall, TUS Athlone on Wednesday, May 13, and Thursday, May 14, for Singfest 2026, a large-scale celebration of singing organised by Music Generation Offaly and Music Generation Westmeath.

Since its launch in 2016, Singfest has engaged thousands of children and young people in collaborative singing experiences, encouraging participation, creativity, and confidence through music.

This year, almost 1,500 primary school children from 26 schools took part in three spectacular Primary School Big Sings.

Offaly primary schools included Gaelscoil na Laochra, Mercy Convent School, Scoil Eoin Phóil Naofa II, Scoil Naomh Phádraig, Shinrone National School, St. Joseph’s National School, St. Mary’s Primary School, St. Philomena’s Girls National School, Scoil Bhríde Primary School, Seir Kieran’s National School, Scoil Bhríde Boys National School, St. Cronan’s National School, St. Mary’s National School Pullough, and Killeen National School.

Offaly secondary schools involved included Ard Scoil Chiarán Naofa Clara and Tullamore College.

In preparation for the performances, students learned songs in their schools with support from Music Generation Offaly musicians before coming together in Athlone to form inspiring mass choirs of up to 450 voices.

Each Big Sing featured lively vocal warm-ups, musical games, and performances led by renowned conductor Patrick Barrett of the Irish Youth Training Choir.

Singfest 2026 also welcomed just under 300 students from 9 secondary schools across the region for SingOUT!, a special post-primary singing event that brought young singers together for a dynamic shared musical experience.

A key feature of Singfest is the live band accompaniment provided by members of Music Generation’s professional musician team, creating an exciting live performance atmosphere for participants.

This year’s performances were further enhanced by a number of students performing ukulele accompaniment during one of the songs, adding an extra layer of creativity and collaboration to the event.

Geraldine Relph, Music Development Officer with Music Generation Offaly, said: “Every Offaly primary school was invited to participate, and we were thrilled with the response.

"The Singfest Big Sings are always full of energy, enthusiasm, and joyful singing. It’s wonderful to see so many young people coming together through music, and the commitment of the schools, teachers, musicians, and students is what makes these events such a success year after year.”

Organisers say that Singfest continues to "grow from strength to strength, celebrating the power of collective singing and creating memorable musical experiences for children and young people across the region".

Planning is currently underway for Singfest 2027 and schools are welcome to register their interest by email to mgo@loetb.ie