Popular Navan Choral Festival silenced for 2022

The very popular Navan Choral and Instrumental Festival will not go ahead this year.

"We would not be able to run the festival and secure the welfare of our patrons, which is of the utmost importance," said secretary, Marie Mullooley.

"We have been deliberating on an ongoing basis, the possibilities of holding the 2022 festival. We were hopeful that if not all of the events, some of them might be able to take place," she said. "We have been talking to the management of the various venues that we hold the competitions in, as well as discussions with adjudicators.

"On speaking with primary and post primary schools, the vast majority are not having choir activities. Anecdotal evidence suggests that some adult choirs were having rehearsals. There has been some activity in the instrumental solo and ensemble sector.

"We have taken on board the scientific information regarding the extra projection when singing and playing a wind instrument as well as the cleansing and precautions necessary to create a safe environment for piano players."

She said social distancing and all other protocol requirements would be very difficult to implement.

"As an organisation we do not want to set a bad example. Therefore, it is with a heavy heart that we have had no choice but to decide that it is not possible to run the festival in 2022. We would not be able to run the festival and secure the welfare of our patrons, which is of the utmost importance.

"We look forward to the day when we welcome you back to Navan! Thank you for your understanding and stay safe," she said.