Cormac Thompson Young Chorister Sings “Empty Chairs at Empty Tables”

Cormac Thompson is a gifted young chorister from Lancashire, UK, whose journey into the public eye began when he was just eight years old. While he had been developing his musical skills for several years, his transition into a broader spotlight occurred in 2020. During that year, he established a personal YouTube channel to share his singing with his family, particularly his grandmother living in Northern Ireland. Because of government-mandated stay-at-home orders, Cormac was unable to visit her in person, so his mother began filming his performances to bridge the distance. This simple act of connection blossomed into a significant musical pursuit, as Cormac later remarked that it was through these specific uploads that he truly recognized his profound love for singing.

The quality and maturity of his voice quickly attracted professional attention, leading to a partnership with the prestigious Decca Records. The label recognized the potential in his treble range and sought to work with him on a studio album. One of the most notable results of this period was his poignant rendition of “Empty Chairs at Empty Tables” from the iconic musical Les Misérables. This recording was captured at the renowned Masterchord Studio in London. Beyond its artistic merit, the track served a humanitarian purpose, as it was released as a charity single to benefit Acting For Others. This organization provides essential financial and emotional support to theatre workers, a demographic that faced significant challenges throughout 2020.

At twelve years old, Cormac displayed a level of musicality and vocal control that resonated with listeners far beyond his immediate family. His dedication to his craft became a daily commitment, fueling his ambition for a long-term career in music. This trajectory brought him into contact with professional pianist Dominic Ferris in 2021. Ferris is a highly accomplished musician who has collaborated extensively with the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra, contributing to over three million album sales globally. His professional portfolio includes work on six albums that have reached the top 10, as well as a recent collaboration with Michael Ball on the chart-topping UK release “Coming Home To You.” Recognizing the raw talent and passion in the young singer, Ferris has since recorded eight songs with Cormac, helping to refine and showcase his vocal abilities.

Watch the full performance on page two