'Honour of a lifetime' as Offaly school choir to perform at St. Peter’s Basilica in Rome

An Offaly school choir will receive 'an honour of a lifetime' as they are set to perform at St. Peter’s Basilica in Rome.

In a remarkable recognition of musical excellence and spiritual dedication, the Sacred Heart School Choir from Tullamore has received a prestigious opportunity to perform at St. Peter’s Basilica in Rome. The performance is scheduled for next February and marks a milestone not only for the choir but for the entire school and local community.

The invitation came following a series of standout performances over the past few years, including live performances on RTÉ where the choir’s blend of classical sacred music and youthful harmony drew admiration from music directors.

“To sing in a place of such profound spiritual significance is a fantastic opportunity,” said Mr James Murphy, director of the Sacred Heart School’s Choir. “St. Peter’s Basilica is the heart of Catholicism, and to be heard in that space is a humbling honour.”

The trip to Rome will be more than just a performance—it will be a pilgrimage. Along with singing at St. Peter’s, the group will tour religious and historical sites, including the Sistine Chapel, Basilica of the Sacred Heart and St John the Lateran Basilica. The journey to Rome will require significant support, and the school has launched a fundraising campaign to help cover travel expenses for students. Events such as benefit concerts, bake sales, and community sponsorship initiatives are already underway.

“We’re so proud of these students,” said Principal Pauline McKenna. “They’ve worked incredibly hard, and now they’re being recognised on the global stage. We hope the entire community will rally behind them.”

The choir is currently preparing a special repertoire for the basilica performance, featuring sacred works in Latin, English and Irish in addition to performing works by living Irish composers including John O'Keeffe and Ronan McDonagh.

With months of preparation ahead, the students remain focused and grateful for the opportunity. As the Sacred Heart School Choir lifts its voice in one of the world’s most sacred spaces, it carries with it the hopes and prayers of a community united in faith and song.