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Every Choir in Wales argues that it is the best, and The Caernarfon Choir is no different. But if you challenge the opinion of the Choir, they have a strong argument – they will remind you that they have won the cup in three National Eisteddfods back to back between 1994 and 1996, and have won seven times in all in the competition ...more The Choir was formed at the Ferodo Factory in 1967, however the connection with the factory has since come to an end. The members now consist of mechanics, policemen, accountants, local government officials, farmers, teachers, craftsmen, and a number that have retired, all of whom enjoy competing and performing concerts, by practicing hard on Tuesday nights within a stone's throw of the town's ancient castle. |
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The current leader is Menai Williams. Since she has taken the reins in 1993, it has been a very successful period nationally. In addition to being successful at the National Eisteddfod, the choir have also won the Stena Sealink competition in 1996 and 1999. By maintaining the Celtic connection, the choir crossed over to the Emerald Isle and won the International Sligo Choral festival in 1995. The choir is popular within Welsh Communities throughout England, taking part in St. David's Festivals in locations such as London, Birmingham, Manchester, Bradford, Gillingham, Bury St. Edmunds, and Tunbridge Wells. It is a pleasure for these communities to discover that each member of the choir speaks Welsh. The choir has also traveled to perform concerts in North America and Europe. Whilst competing successfully in many competitions, the judges have pointed out the talent of the choir's accompanist, Mona Meirion Richards. Mona and Menai were head and deputy of the Music Department at Sir Hugh Owen High School, Caernarfon, both are respected within Cerdd Dant circles, and both have received the highest honour of the white gown of the Throne at the Meirion and Surrounding Area Eisteddfod 1997, to acknowledge their marvelous contribution to Welsh Culture. The Choir's honourary president is the baritone from Pantglas, Bryn Terfel. As a young man of twenty two he went on tour with the lads along the East Coast of the United States of America. Bryn said: “The choir are excellent ambassadors for Wales and the Welsh wherever they go, and they can sing a little too!“ |
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