A feast of accordion talent

Organised by Clyde Johnston, the event is the largest accordion festival held in Northern Ireland and this year attracted 157 entries. The championships are recognised by the National Accordion Organisation of the United Kingdom as a qualifier for the UK Championships, held later in the year.

Don't miss this week's paper for results and photos.

There was further duet success for Ajmer Singh of Ballyclare and his teacher in the higher elementary test piece section; In addition, the Beattie sisters Jenny and Helen from Straid picked up four second prizes between them - Jenny’s were in the elementary and 14 and under polka sections with Helen gaining success in the 11 and under championship solo and the higher preparatory solo sections; John Andrews from Gleno was awarded two third prizes in the nine and under championship solo and the preparatory solo with Connaire Maybin from Kilwaughter being placed second in the junior Scottish and 13 and under musette sections and Abigail Park of Ballynure taking third in the nine and under musette solo.

Once again the orchestral sections drew the largest audience of the day and they were not disappointed with the musical feast that was served. The highlight was the advanced orchestra section where the K&S Accordion Orchestra from Co Meath finished ahead of St Johns Accordion Orchestra from Portadown with Killyglen Accordion Orchestra (East Antrim) third.

K&S were also placed third in the best performance of the day category, their preparatory band won the prep section and they were also placed second in the orchestral percussion class. This was won by East Antrim Seniors Accordion Orchestra who also won the late starters and the junior sacred sections as well as being awarded silver in the entertainment section. Killyglen also were awarded silver in the entertainment as well as third in the orchestral percussion.

Following the splendid day’s competition, the prizes were presented at a gala dance in the Highways Hotel by Larne councillor Roy Craig.