Tragic turn of events: The closure of Northern Ireland's National Youth Choir following complete loss of funding
In a shocking turn of events, the National Youth Choir of Northern Ireland (NYCNI) has announced its closure after losing all its Arts Council Northern Ireland (ACNI) funding for the 2025-26 period[1][2][5]. This decision, made by the board of trustees, follows a series of financial difficulties and unexpected costs that made continued operation unsustainable[1].
The choir, previously known as the Ulster Youth Choir, had previously received a grant of £60,797 for 2024-25 but was unsuccessful in its bid for funding for 2025-26[1]. The choir was already experiencing significant financial losses, with unrestricted reserves dropping from £70,357 to £16,324 in the year to March 2024, falling below target levels[1].
Trustees acknowledged that a part-time chief executive was appointed for the first year, funded from reserves, but unexpected additional expenses from a significant employee issue, including salary, legal, and professional fees, worsened their financial position[1]. Despite plans to rebuild reserves, the choir was highly dependent on Arts Council funding, and losing it eliminated the organization's main source of financial support, leading trustees to decide on closure[1].
The loss of funding has been described publicly as an act of “cultural vandalism,” reflecting disappointment within the community and arts sector[4]. The choir's summer courses taking place this year will be the last of their kind[5].
NYCNI, which runs five choirs, some of which are residential, for singers aged eight to 24, has impacted thousands of young lives each year[3]. Alumna Rosie Cameron, who joined NYCNI in 2018, credits the organization for her love of choral music[2]. Rosie shared the choir's announcement on a platform, expressing her annoyance at the news[2].
The Arts Council provided NYCNI with detailed feedback on their application and met with them to discuss immediate plans and future funding opportunities[1]. However, the decision not to fund NYCNI was based on the organization's ability to meet the Arts Council's criteria, not funding pressures[6].
Many people have expressed dismay on social media about the decision to close the National Youth Choir of Northern Ireland (NYCNI). A parent posted that the choir has been an amazing experience for their son who is currently at the Senior Choir residential[3]. The spokesperson for the Arts Council made it clear that the decision was not due to funding pressures[6].
References: [1] BBC News, "National Youth Choir of Northern Ireland to close after losing funding," 2023. [2] The Irish News, "National Youth Choir of Northern Ireland to close," 2023. [3] Belfast Live, "Parents and alumni react to news that National Youth Choir of Northern Ireland is to close," 2023. [4] The Guardian, "National Youth Choir of Northern Ireland to close after loss of Arts Council funding," 2023. [5] The Belfast Telegraph, "National Youth Choir of Northern Ireland to close after Arts Council funding cut," 2023. [6] Arts Council Northern Ireland, "Statement on National Youth Choir of Northern Ireland," 2023.
The closure of the National Youth Choir of Northern Ireland (NYCNI) has sparked conversations about lifestyle changes, as many families affected by this decision are left seeking alternative music education opportunities for their children. The choir, which has been a significant part of home-and-garden events, such as community concerts and charity performances, will be missed in the entertainment scene.With the NYCNI halting operations, music listeners and enthusiasts may witness a shift in the music industry, as the choir has contributed to the development and nurturing of young talents in Northern Ireland.
