The competition began with a filmed first round, where schools submitted their entries for consideration. From these submissions, five schools were invited to perform live in the finals. Representing Newminster and Chantry Middle Schools, the choir consisted of around 140 pupils.

The event began with Gareth Miller from Music Partnership North Newcastle, who judged the competition, leading a warm-up session for all the choirs and teaching them a Christmas song to sing together as the opening of the event. This collaborative start set a festive tone for the performances to come.

The Newminster and Chantry Choir performed ‘O Holy Night‘ arranged and conducted by Naomi Hughes, showcasing well-rehearsed harmonies that filled the church with a rich and resonant sound. Gareth Miller praised their thoughtful use of dynamics throughout the piece, starting softly and building to a powerful finish. “A superb and very deserving win,” he remarked. “Congratulations—they are amazing.”

Audience members were equally impressed, with one commenting, “A beautiful performance.”

As winners of the competition, the Newminster and Chantry Choir have been invited to represent Northumberland at the Durham Choir Festival in February 2025, where they will perform at Durham Cathedral. For this special event, the choir plans to sing Lean on Me.