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An incredible rendition of Abba's The Winner Takes it All by County Armagh singer/harpist Niamh Noade on The Voice Kids has taken her into the 'Battle' round of the competition later this month.
Niamh stepped on The Voice Kids stage on Saturday night for blind auditions and within 4 seconds, Irish judge Ronan Keating pressed the red button to turn.
It's a dream come true for 14-year-old Niamh from Lislea. “When I got through to the blind auditions, and I heard who the judges were, I really wanted Ronan to turn – when he did it felt amazing,” the 3rd year St Paul’s student said.
Now in its 7th series, The Voice Kids judges this season include judges Will.i.am, Danny Jones and Pixie Lott, alongside Irish Pop star Keating.
Pixie Lott and Danny Jones also turned for Niamh, but it was Ronan who was captivated by Niamh’s performance -jumping to his feet he exclaimed: “Wow showstopper, my favourite moment on The Voice Kids, ever.”
Moved to tears by her soulful performance he added: “it was just mesmerising…it was so moving, so beautiful, I’m such a fan.”
Lott praised her timing and called the performance “elegant” and” magical” with Danny Jones highlighting her delivery, her “stunning voice and musical talent”.
Niamh describes her musician Dad Malachy as her inspiration, explaining she’s played the harp for four years but only started singing and playing the harp during lockdown.
The teen now part of #teamRonan, joins other hopefuls to take part in the Battle Round on 15th July – where only one member of each judges’ team goes forward into the Final.
Niamh is no stranger to competition, having been a finalist in Teen Star UK, NI BBC Soloist of the Year and most recently was in the final trio in the search for an Irish Junior Eurovision act.
“The experience of the previous competitions has really helped me to feel a bit more assured on stage. I’ve written and recorded a few of my own too which I feel has added to my confidence,” she adds.
Before this weekend’s Battle, Ronan Keating will spend time with all the acts vying for a place on Team Ronan, guiding the young artists through their vocal and stage performances.
“He’s amazing, and so are the whole team of coaches here at The Voice Kids. I feel so lucky to have this opportunity to learn from such an experienced artist.”
The winner will be awarded a family holiday to Orlando.
Tune in to hear Niamh Noade’s next performance in The Battle Rounds on Saturday 15th July on ITV at 7.30pm.
