The word “choir” seems to spring up terror in some people- evidently the music department experience at school was was not always a pleasant one (The Webrecruit team have starred in many a school concert in our youth!). Choirs seem to have really taken on a whole new life across Ireland with “choirs” nearly becoming a genre in their own right. The sheer power, volume and unity of choirs makes them almost addictive for the crowds who flock to see the choir they love. Today we are looking at some of our favourite choirs across Ireland but we also want to emphasise that there is amazing talent in your local community- the local school choir, church choir or youth group might just provide the uplifting night out you need.

Starting in Belfast, there is a wealth of choral talent. The Belfast Philharmonic Choir (affectionally referred to as ‘The Phil’) is one of the most historic choirs in Ireland. It was founded in 1874 and the choir is still going from strength to strength today. The Belfast Philharmonic Choir often team up with the stunning sounds of the Ulster Orchestra, combining to give a strong and luscious sound. The choir and orchestra perform Handel’s Messiah every Christmas to packed out crowds- a tradition which has been running since 1886! I highly suggest you see the Belfast Philharmonic Choir live at least once in your life. It will both amaze and astound you that we have such amazing talent in the city.

If classical music is not your thing, why not go to see the Belfast Community Gospel Choir? The choir was founded in 2009 and has been ‘wow-ing’ audiences ever since. Led by the charismatic Marie Lacey, the choir was created with one simple goal- to spread joy through the island. The mix of both traditional gospel and modern songs has allowed to choir to attract huge audiences with sell-out shows in venues such as the Waterfront Hall. The choir has also recently returned from a packed tour of New York and New Jersey, allowing the choir to act as ‘ambassadors for Belfast’, making the American’s aware of the talented and vibrant city that Belfast has become.

If you love gospel music but are based in Dublin, the city also offers their own very successful gospel choir. Dublin Gospel Choir strains back to the 1990’s and they have performed with Irish legends such as Chris de Burgh and Damien Rice. Their annual spot at the Electric Picnic has become iconic and attracts old and new fans alike. If you aren’t based in Ireland, both of the aforementioned gospel choirs have very successful albums which will allow you to have a little bit of Irish talent in your own home!

If contemporary choral music is what you are after, the stunning Anuna might just be up your street. Brainchild of Dublin composer Michael McGlynn, the choir usually performs with 12-14 singers, who although are small in numbers, create a dynamic sound. Many of the Anuna members have gone on to huge success in the musical world and it is clear to see that the standard of singers in Anuna is extremely high. Singing in Irish, English and Latin, it is impossible not to leave an Anuna experience without goosebumps.

The talent in the aforementioned choirs is just one example of what a talented place Ireland is. We may have future Grammy winners in our midst without even knowing it! If you want to be an award winning business, Webrecruit Ireland can help you to get the best staff to help you achieve your goals. For more information, visit wwww.webrecruit.co.