International music stars to perform in Newry this Christmas

Marking their first-ever performance in Newry, this spectacular concert represents a major musical coup for the city, bringing three internationally celebrated voices to local audiences for a truly special Christmas occasion.

The concert is particularly significant following the retirement of The Priests as a professional performing trio in January 2025. This special appearance will offer audiences a rare opportunity to hear Fr Martin and Fr Eugene performing together again, this time alongside the magnificent voice of Margaret Keys.

Bringing together artists who have performed on some of the world's most prestigious stages, entertained royalty and religious leaders, topped international music charts and sold millions of recordings, this remarkable collaboration promises to be one of the musical highlights of Newry's Christmas season.

For local audiences, the opportunity to experience performers of this calibre for the very first time in the intimate and atmospheric surroundings of St Brigid’s Church makes this a particularly unique and memorable occasion.

Derry-born soprano Margaret Keys has established herself as one of Ireland's most accomplished and internationally recognised classical crossover performers.

A graduate of the prestigious Royal Conservatoire of Scotland, Margaret's international career has taken her to Carnegie Hall in New York, London's Royal Albert Hall and the London Palladium, as well as performances for Pope Francis during his historic visit to the United States and at prestigious royal occasions.

She has shared the stage with some of the biggest names in classical crossover music, including Andrea Bocelli, Alfie Boe and Russell Watson, and has appeared on major television and radio broadcasts.

Her acclaimed album, The Gift of Music, achieved outstanding chart success, topping both the UK Classical Charts and the Classic FM Charts, further cementing her reputation as one of Ireland's leading classical crossover sopranos.

Renowned for her breathtaking voice, emotional depth and ability to connect with audiences, Margaret has built a distinguished international career while remaining deeply proud of her Derry roots.

Joining Margaret are Fr Martin O’Hagan and Fr Eugene O’Hagan, whose extraordinary musical journey as members of The Priests became one of the most remarkable success stories in classical music.

Alongside Fr David Delargy, the brothers achieved international fame following the release of their self-titled debut album in 2008, which became the fastest-selling UK debut album by a classical act, earning the group a place in the Guinness World Records.

The Priests went on to sell more than three million albums worldwide, achieving gold and platinum sales, topping classical music charts and captivating audiences across Europe, North America and beyond.

Their achievements included success on the prestigious US Billboard classical charts, multiple Classical BRIT Award nominations and performances before royalty, world leaders and popes.

Their magnificent voices, deep faith and warmth captured the hearts of millions, making them one of the most recognisable and successful classical crossover groups to emerge from Ireland.

Tickets for this performance are available through Eventbrite or from the church office.