Northern Ireland v Germany

Performing in front of large audiences is nothing new for the Tyrone singer. He has toured the world extensively as a member of The Celtic Tenors. The Omagh man developed his love of music at Omagh Academy and subsequently at Queen’s University in Belfast, the Royal Irish Academy of Music and the Royal Scottish Academy of Music and Drama. On leaving university he joined Opera Theatre Company, performing in various operas, recitals and broadcasts, and was then accepted to the prestigious Oper Zurich Studio in Switzerland. His concert/oratorio performances include appearing with the Royal Scottish National Orchestra and the Ulster Orchestra as well as the Zurich Kammer Orchestra. In September 1998, in the aftermath of the Omagh bomb tragedy, Daryl formed the Omagh Community Youth Choir to promote peace and reconciliation through music. The choir has enjoyed international success including recording with Lord Lloyd-Webber, appearing on The Royal Variety Show, being part of a US Billboard Top 10 hit and even headlining at Glastonbury - plus a release of ‘All You Need Is Love’ for Starbucks/Red. Daryl has been a member of The Celtic Tenors for 13 years. The tenors have sold more than a million Both national anthems at this evening’s game will be sung by Northern Ireland fan Daryl Simpson. NO STRANGER TO THE BIG STAGE

albums and have a busy international touring schedule - the last 12 months has taken them to Canada, USA, Australia, New Zealand and Belgium - including appearing with some of the world’s leading orchestras. And they have had major TV specials in the US, Canada, Germany and Australia to name but a few. Their current travels will take them to Germany in November, followed by concerts in the US and Canada prior to Christmas. Closer to home they have appeared many times on BBC, ITV and RTE, with slots on prime time shows including Songs Of Praise, Children In Need and the Late Late Show. Manchester United fan Daryl, who as a youth played for Omagh Town, Sligo Rovers and Co Tyrone at the Milk Cup before a rugby injury cut his football career short, is also an MD, arranger and vocal teacher. His work with the Omagh choir and various community-driven projects was recognised in 2018 by The Queen, who awarded him a BEM (British Empire Medal) for services to community relations and peace and reconciliation in Northern Ireland. Words Nigel Tilson

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