John Joe MacNeil is a multi-skilled and creative professional and strategic leader with a diverse array of experience in Gaelic medium education, project and event management, broadcasting and digital media, and Gaelic music and culture.

Originally from the Isle of Barra in the Outer Hebrides, John Joe is a fluent Gaelic speaker with a deep passion for the language’s culture and heritage.

As a Gaelic singer, choral conductor and choral arranger, John Joe has established himself as one of the most respected figures in traditional music. He has won numerous accolades including the coveted Traditional Medal in 2017 and the Gold Medal in 2021 at the Royal National Mòd. In 2024 and 2025, he also won the Choral Arrangement Competition at the Royal National Mòd.

He is a highly skilled conductor and has led numerous choirs and ensembles. He is best known for his role as the conductor of Binneas, a choral collective of 16 of Scotland’s finest voices. Under his leadership, the choir has gained widespread recognition, performing at prestigious events such as the Royal National Mòd, Celtic Connections, Blas and the King’s Coronation Concert at Windsor Castle. His innovative approach to choral arrangements blends traditional Gaelic elements with contemporary harmonies. He is also the conductor of Còisir Ghàidhlig Bharraigh (Barra Gaelic Choir). In the past, he conducted the ladies’ choir of Còisir Ghàidhlig an Òbain (Oban Gaelic Choir) and also sang with Còisir Ghàidhlig an Òbain, Còisir Ghàidhlig Loch Abar (Lochaber Gaelic Choir), Còisir Ghàidhlig Ìlleach Ghlaschu (Glasgow Islay Gaelic Choir) and Còisir Ghàidhlig Inbhir Nis (Inverness Gaelic Choir). John Joe is also seen frequently adjudicating Gaelic and/or music at the Royal National Mòd and local Mòds.

John Joe’s career extends beyond performance and conducting. He has significant experience in Gaelic education, having worked as a Lecturer in Gaelic Education and a Programme Director for the MA Primary Education with Gaelic programme at the University of Edinburgh. Prior to this, he was the first ever Head Teacher at Bun-Sgoil Ghàidhlig Loch Abar and taught in a number of schools as a Gaelic medium Primary Teacher. As Ceannard (Chief Executive Officer) of Ceòlas since 2022, John Joe played a key role in promoting Gaelic language and culture through music and community engagement. He is the Founder and Lead Officer of Còisir Òigridh Ghàidhlig Nàiseanta na h-Alba (CGNA), a national Gaelic youth choir which is currently being formed. John Joe started working as a freelancer in April 2025 specialising in leadership, education, broadcasting and music.

John Joe’s work as a freelance presenter and contributor for BBC Radio nan Gàidheal and BBC Alba further showcases his commitment to broadcasting and media.

Alongside his professional work, John Joe has been an amateur church musician for over 20 years, serving as an organist in a number of parishes in both the Outer Hebrides and Glasgow. He currently plays the organ at St Mary's Church, Benbecula. As a singer, he has also performed with several religious and classical choirs including the Motherwell Diocesan Choir, Our Lady of Lourdes Choir, Cardonald, and the Argyll and the Isles Diocesan Choir. A keen advocate for sacred and classical music, John Joe maintains a strong interest in the rich traditions of church, choral and liturgical repertoire.

In addition to his professional achievements, John Joe has been heavily involved in voluntary work within the arts and culture sector. He is currently Vice Chair and a director on the board of An Comunn Gàidhealach, organisers of the Royal National Mòd. Previously, he was a Board Member and Presenter at Celtic Music Radio Limited and a Presenter/Producer at Rèidio Cheòlais, Siar FM, Inverness Hospital Radio and Grampian Hospital Radio.

John Joe’s passion for the language and its traditions drives him to continue both preserving and innovating within the rich tapestry of Gaelic culture. With a deep commitment to expanding the boundaries of Gaelic music and culture, John Joe remains a key figure in contemporary folk and choral scenes.