Grand Lodge launches CentenNIal Music, Song & Poetry Competition

The Grand Orange Lodge of Ireland has launched a competition to celebrate the Centenary of Northern Ireland in words, music and song.

To mark the end of Orange Heritage Week 2020 and the beginning of the run up to the 2021 CentenNIal, the Orange Institution is giving writers, musicians and composers of all abilities an exciting platform to share their work.

The competition is divided into three categories – new original song, instrumental music and poetry, so if you have a talent for musical masterpieces or penning poetry this is the competition for you!

Up for grabs is a cash prize of £500 in each category, but perhaps more important is the opportunity for the winner to have their individual piece of work performed at a suitable CentenNIal themed event during 2021.

Chief Executive Iain Carlisle explained: “As part of our series of planned events to commemorate Northern Ireland’s 100th birthday, the Grand Orange Lodge of Ireland are pleased to announce this new competition to create a piece of instrumental music, a song, and a poem to mark this important milestone.

“Each piece should reflect in some way Northern Ireland’s identity, culture, and its people.

“Northern Ireland has a rich history when it comes to music and the written word. We know there is a depth of creative talent out there and it is hoped many people will come forward and submit their work to this exciting competition.

“The competition is open to all, and applications will be assessed by a panel drawn from music professionals, writers and community arts practitioners.

Mr Carlisle added: “As an Institution, we are determined that 2021 will be a year of CentenNIal celebrations. Many events are being planned to ensure this historic occasion is marked in the best way possible.”

For more details, including the specifications for each section of the competition, email 2021@goli.org.uk or telephone 028 90701122.

The deadline for submitting entries is 4pm on Friday, 26th of February 2021. Entries received after this date will not be judged.