How former school teacher Cliona Hagan made the grade on the Irish country music scene

CLIONA HAGAN is from that epicentre of country music in Ireland, Co. Tyrone and although a relative newcomer to the country scene, she is anything but a novice.

At the age of nine, Cliona performed at the Grand Opera House Belfast for the BBC Radio Ulster Christmas Spectacular. She followed this up a few years later by singing Silent Night on RTÉ'S Late Late Toy Show, aged 12.

After these early steps in the entertainment business, Cliona opted for the classical and opera route and studied music at Queen’s University, Belfast, attaining a master’s degree.

Still not finished with academia, the young Tyrone woman took a teacher’s degree at Edinburgh University, all the while honing her vocal skills.

A spell at teaching followed, a job which Cliona loved, but she soon realised that performing was where her heart lay. Even better, as far as her fans are concerned, it was country music that most appealed to her.

After teaming up with musician and singer Aidan Quinn, three singles followed: We're All Gonna Die Someday, Cowboy Yodel Song and I Need Someone to Hold me When I Cry.

Watch Cliona here...

These all come with the unique Cliona Hagan imprimatur — ethereally beautiful singing combined with verve and power.

You can experience her unique voice when she performs at The Irish Post Country Music Awards in Armagh on August 30.

Cliona Hagan could have followed many paths to musical stardom — not least as an opera singer of glittering power and beauty.

But it was country music which proved the most seductive for the 19-year old and the opera world’s loss has undoubtedly been country music’s gain.

Cliona is a breath of fresh air with a refreshing approach to the current music scene.

The Irish Post Country Music Awards take place on Wednesday, August 30 at The Armagh City Hotel, Co. Armagh. Join music fans from all over Ireland and Britain and book your ticket today.