About the Festival
Early Days
Larne Musical Festival Association was founded in 1925 by a group of musicians whose enthusiasm left a strong foundation on which we can build today.
The three people who may be considered the main founders are Mrs JC Tweed, Secretary, Mrs IL Price, Treasurer, and Mr James McQuillan, Chairman. Their musical knowledge, technique, and experience, proved invaluable, as was the active support of the Earl of Antrim and Margaret, Countess of Antrim, both with vast experience of similar organisations. All these factors combined with the knowledge, business acumen and support of Mr Tweed, Mr Price and Judge Herbert M Thompson KC, the scene for success was set.
During the early years of the Festival there were many very important and influential adjudicators like Dr Whittaker, Mr Maurice Jacobsen, Mr TE Dunhill, Dr Stonely, Mr Julius Harrison and Sir Hugh S Roberton. The Festival’s success in the early years continued until the mid 1950s. However changing trends meant that the music festival fell by the way- side and eventually support petered out.
The Revival of Larne Music Festival
In September 1999, Mr John Dooris, a well-known local musician and Choir Master set up a new committee and re-instated Larne Music Festival. From small beginnings it has grown into the friendly, well-supported event which it is today. The link with Glenarm Castle is maintained by having Lady Aurora, Viscountess Dunluce as our supportive and enthusiastic Patron
We hope that, as a committee, we can call on the support of all music lovers, and we would urge all teachers of music, Schools, Choirs, soloists and musicians to enter the Festival and ensured that it will continue to be a success for many years to come.