I am 18 years old and I live in Magherafelt. I currently study at NRC (Northern Regional College) in Ballymoney. My main interest is music.

I began playing piano when I was just 4 years old. I played by ear for a long time and was able to teach myself. I didn’t attend formal lessons until I was 14. I got through all my examinations in just under three years. Some people say it’s a natural ability, I believe it’s a true gift from God himself! I have a particular interest in photography. I like art too, although I cannot draw or paint, I just like to look at it! After I finish college (June 2016), I hope to go to the University of Ulster to study Music. I have been a Christian since the age of 15, and since then I have desired to use my musical gifts to serve and give praise to God.

I first heard about Dervock Presbyterian when a fellow classmate of mine was involved playing the organ and the piano in the church. It was his intention to leave the church after the harvest of October 2014. He thought I would be the suitable person for the role and asked if I would be interested in doing it. I originally went to see how I thought of it for a few weeks. The choir seemed to like me and some of the members of the Committee and Session thought I was doing a good job and offered me a probation period of 2 months. Ever since I have been attending every Sunday, and I really enjoy it.

Not only do I play the piano and organ every week, I also work with the choir.  They mainly sing during special occasions during the church year, (Harvest, Christmas, Easter, Communion) and sometimes contemporary events like praise evenings etc. This was something new to me, as I have never directed and conducted a choir before, although I always had a passion to do so. It usually takes around 4-5 weeks to prepare the choir for whatever I am teaching. I am currently looking new folk to join. It’s main purpose is to praise God and that is why it exists. It also doesn’t matter what age you are, whether you’re 25, 55 or 85, you are most welcome to join, the more the merrier! Please don’t feel you have to read music, just be able to make a joyful noise.

I must say I am really enjoying it. I’m thankful to the committee for giving me the chance to be their Organist/Musical coordinator, whatever you wish to call me. I came to the church with no experience and it has been an excellent experience so far. I am looking forward to doing new things musically with the church and I hope to be here for as long as I can, but I trust God has put me on this journey and He will decide how long I should play here . I trust that my playing not only encourages the congregation to better praise our Great God, but I hope it brings Glory to His Great name!