Vikki Howells A.M. takes on Role as Vice President
Created: Friday, 20 April 2018 09:30
The choir is delighted to announce that, Vikki Howells, Welsh Assembly Govenment Member for Cynon Valley has taken on the role of Vice President of Cwmbach Male Choir.
Vikki is a lifelong resident of Cynon Valley, and was educated at St John Baptist Church in Wales High school, Aberdare, before attending the University of Wales, Cardiff where she gained a Bachelors Degree in International and Welsh History, and a Masters Degree in Modern Welsh History. Whilst studying at Cardiff, Vikki received the Charles Morgan award in recognition of her contribution to the field of Welsh History.
As someone who was born and raised in Cwmbach, Vikki has always taken a keen interest in the Choir and has attended many of our concerts over the years. Indeed, just a few months ago her daughter had the experience of singing with us at the Coliseum as part of the Cwmdare School Choir.
Choral singing, drama and art has long been a rich part of the history of the Cynon Valley, and we hope that together we can help sustain and grow this very important part of life in the Valleys. The are undoubtedly many challenges in the future, however, we hope that the partnership with Vikki will help us face them head-on.
Welcome aboard Vikki...... see you in rehearsal soon.
Live broadcast of Massed Voices Charity Concert
Created: Saturday, 03 June 2017 09:06
Hosted by Nick Servini, this fabulous concert took place on Saturday 20th May 2017 at St. Elvan's Church Aberdare and featured the combined voices of Cwmbach Male Choir, Cwmdare Voices, Pelenna Valley Male Voice Choir and Mountain Ash RFC Singers. The guest artistes were Mackie Brass. Conducted in his inimitable style by Dr. Mike Thomas and accompanied by the wonderful Jayne Thomas on piano and Will Thomas on organ. The concert was to raise funds for The Stroke Association. The concert starts here at around 8 minutes and there is is a 20 minute interval. Follow this link to YouTube https://youtu.be/YLx-nkUarYQ
Live St Davids Day.
Created: Saturday, 04 March 2017 18:28
John Merriman
Created: Saturday, 03 June 2017 08:56
Cwmbach Male Choir is saddened to learn of the death of John Merriman, a faithful chorister and former Chairman and Vice Chairman of the choir.
John , on returning with his wife Jenny to live in Aberdare, rejoined the choir after a gap of many years, and loved not only the singing, but the friendship, social activities and tours.
Our thoughts go out to Jenny and their families. He was a true gentleman and will be fondly remembered by everyone connected to the Choir.
Johns' funeral will be held on Monday 19th June at 2.15pm at Llwydcoed Crematorium. Choristers please be at the Crematorium for 1.50pm.
Remembrance Day – Cwmbach at Cardiff Central Station
Created: Friday, 11 November 2016 19:17
On Friday 11th November the choir was truly honoured to be a small part of a Remembrance Service at Cardiff Central Railway Station. Arriva trains Wales transported the choir down from the top of the Cynon valley to the Capital City where we sang Morte Christi and Gwahoddiad prior to the two minute silence at 11am. A huge thank you to Sheridan George and Bob Thomas who travelled independently to set-up the piano and sound system and to our MD Dr Mike Thomas for conducting the choir in the bustling and challenging environment. Special thanks to the boys from Mount Rugby Choir who also travelled with us and contributed to the rich sound that echoed throughout the hall and tunnels at Cardiff Central.
Charity Concert & Wedding (and Baptism) - 29th October
Created: Monday, 31 October 2016 16:14
On Saturday 29th October the choir formed part of a concert double header. We started the day with an afternoon wedding of Lewis & Emma at St Fagans church in Trecynon. The choir was honored to be a small part of their wedding day and we waved goodbye to the new bride to the tune of “This is the Moment”. The choir also supported (unexpectedly) a Baptism which was tagged onto the end of the wedding. A surprise indeed but we were more than happy to lend a voice to the congregational hymn! The choir were then whisked away to St Andrews Church in Roath to support our very own Jayne Thomas and her charity concert to raise funds and awareness of the little understood and very difficult to diagnose Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS). The promotional video for this event can be seen by following THIS LINK. Annie Amelia Harry (pictured below) was in attendance who is suffering from EDS and we hope the charity event managed to raise over £2,000 to help this growing charity. A huge thank you to Jayne for not only organising the event but playing so professionally for both Cwmbach and the combined choirs of Women in Harmony and Male Voice who also graced this event. A review of the concert by the Cardiffian can be read by following THIS LINK. Many thanks go to our MD Dr Mike Thomas who not only guided us through a range of songs but who also thoroughly entertained the audience as our compère. And finally our thanks are extended to Sheridan George (our very own bottom bass and organist) for accompanying Jayne on many of the songs and adding that little bit extra special to the sound by playing the church organ so gracefully.
Charity Concert
Created: Monday, 10 October 2016 13:30
Jayne's Charity Concert 29th October 2016 - Video
St Andrews Church in Roath will host this fabulous concert in aid of Ehrlers-Danlos Syndrome and is organised by our unique and wonderful accompanist Jayne Thomas. Please click on the link above to see what it's all about and get the link to order tickets.
Click HERE to order your tickets
Don't miss this one - it'll be amazing !!
Cwmbach Presidents Charity Concert and Garden Party
Created: Wednesday, 27 July 2016 12:34
On Saturday 23rd July the choir had a fabulous day at our Presidents Garden Party starting with a concert in the Barn with Garway Primary School and the amazing Stefanie Harvey-Powell. The food and refreshments were outstanding and former Chairman and current Secretary Brian Williams was presented with a silver salver in recognition of his 18 years as Chairman. Many thanks go to Alan Sheppard our ever supportive President, MD Dr Mike Thomas who guided us through a range of songs including “The Song Of The Jolly Roger” and “Jacobs Ladder” with Garway Primary and the ever present Jayne Thomas our accompanist. Thanks also to Ken Jones who thoroughly entertained the audience as our compère. And finally, congratulations to both Gareth Morris (2nd Tenor) and Simon Davies (2nd Bass) who both made their debuts at the concert.
Jayne and Stefanie enjoying the sunshine and choir members enjoying the late afternoon food and drink!
A Grand Summer Finale
Created: Sunday, 31 July 2016 20:41
It has been a fabulous end to a hectic Summer schedule. On Friday 29th July the choir travelled West to Fishguard to once again entertain our friends of the Writers Conference. This year marked the choir’s 18th consecutive concert and we were once again delighted to be part of the event. It was the first time for our musical Director Dr. Mike Thomas at the event and he made a fantastic impact by selecting a range of songs that thoroughly entertained the ensemble. We were joined for the third time at this event by Joy Cornock who this year also joined the choir in “Cymru Fach.” Our accompanist Jayne Thomas was making her tenth trip to the Writers Conference and Jayne also played for Joy during her solo section. After the formalities of the concert the choir then entertained our friends with an impromptu afterglow concert that took us through to the witching hour. We are already looking forward to meeting up again next year.
And congratulations to our very own Robert Venn. On Sunday 31st July his daughter was wed at St. Margaret's Church in Aberaman. The choir was extremely pleased to be part of the big day and to help make those celebrations that little bit more special. Robert joined the choir once the ceremony was over to help blast out “Anthem From Chess” and “This Is The Moment” before he hot footed it off the vestry to be part of the Bride and Grooms Registration.
The choir is now on its Summer break and will be back rehearsing on the 5th September.
Congratulations to the Bride and Groom
Created: Saturday, 16 July 2016 18:01
On Saturday 16th July the choir attended a private wedding of Emily Marsh at St Winifried's Church in Penrhiwceiber. The choir was honoured to sing “The Rose” as the bride walked down the aisle. Our conductor for the day Rhiannon Williams-Hale skillfully led the choir through “This is The Moment”, “Unchained Melody” and “Llanfair” to name but a few. The choir was very pleased to be a small part of the Bride and Grooms big day and hopefully we were able to make the big day just a little bit more special.
Mr Ray Davies
Created: Wednesday, 13 July 2016 08:37
Ray Davies (formerly of the Bass Section) passed away on Saturday 9th July aged 87 after a long illness. He joined the choir in 1988 and became its Compere and MC not long afterwards. He had a dry wit and a sharp sense of humour, and brought a lot of his material with him from his time in the Merchant Navy. He was an expert on the sinking of the Titanic and was invited to many organisations to provide his informative and enlightening insight into the famous loss of the ship. ...He was a long-standing Rotarian, and is credited with starting the “Aberdare Talking News for the Blind”, a service he continued to lead until his recent ill-health prevented him from continuing.
Ray represented the choir on the Welsh Amateur Music Federation, served as Bass Section Leader for many years, and served a term of three years as Vice Chairman. Ray enjoyed many overseas tours including Canada, the States, South Africa and all over Uk and Europe. He fronted the choir when it appeared on the first series of “Britain’s Got Talent”, and when asked about the average age of the choir by Simon Cowell, quickly replied “103”which brought great laughter and applause from the sell-out audience at the Wales Millenium Centre. Ray was also a faithful, long-term chorister with Mountain Ash Choral Society.
We extend our condolences to his wife Shirley and their daughter, and will advise you of the funeral arrangements once they are known. We will remember Ray with affection and gratitude.
Dare Valley Country Park - Concert with Only Signs Aloud - Thursday 30th June 2016
Created: Friday, 01 July 2016 17:03
On Thursday 30th June Cwmbach choir held a fantastic concert at Dare Valley Country Park with Aberdare Rotary and the unmissable Only Signs Aloud. We raised over £1,100 for these fabulous people who despite their disadvantages take great joy from music. Our musical director Dr. Mike Thomas conducted us through a varied repertoire from the secular “Benedictus” to the unofficial Welsh football anthem, “Your Just Too Good To Be True”. We performed fifteen different and varied songs in total and two songs from our Welsh section, “Sarah” and “O Gymry” can be viewed on You Tube by following THIS link. You can also view Only Signs Aloud performing “Any Dream Will Do” by following THIS link. The choir debuted “The Song Of The Jolly Roger” which drew smiles and laughter from the packed audience. The evening drew to a close with the 200 strong audience crammed into the Cwtch giving the joint choirs a standing ovation following the final our performance of “Jacobs Ladder”. A special thanks is extended to all those who helped organise the event and to Jayne Thomas who accompanied the choir so beautifully.
Croatian Tour 2016
Created: Friday, 24 June 2016 17:11
On Sunday 15th May a party of around 120 choristers, music staff, family and friends departed the UK on our 9 day tour of Northern Italy and Croatia. Our first destination was a three night stay at Lido De Jesolo just outside of Venice. We stayed at Hotel Sofia which was a quaint little 3 start hotel just off the beach front. From here many of the tour party spent the next day in Venice taking in the sights and sounds. One of our choristers managed to get on the wrong ferry back to the hotel and ended up on a seven hour tour of his own of Northern Italy! On Tuesday 17th May we held out first concert at the Piazza Aurora where a crowd of around 400 heard Ben Pinnow our musical director for the tour and our accompanist Jayne Thomas professionally guide the choir through 18 songs including Speed Your Journey, Y Tangnefeddwyr and Rachie. Our two soloists Kirk Lewis and Brent Owen also took us through I’se Weary and Ride The Chariot.
On Wednesday 18th we departed from Italy and headed to the beautiful country of Croatia. We stayed at the Resort Hotel Belvedere in Vrsar which provided delicious half board meals for the touring group which meant for the first time we all managed to sit down together and eat and drink.
Our first concert in Croatia was on the 18th May at St Bernado's Church in Funtana. We formed part of a joint concert with the church’s resident choir and also the Zbor Roženice choir led beautifully by Ines Kovačić Drndić. We kicked the concert off with “A Voice of Singing” and ended with the fantastic Amen of “Tydi a Roddaist”. After the concert the choir enjoyed local hospitality in the church hall where we were fed and watered and we also spent a few hours singing to each and other and together cementing that special bond between performing amateur choirs.
On Saturday 21st May we completed our formal part of the tour when we performed in the Basilica of St. Mary of the Sea in Vrsar. This was a joint concert arranged as part of the FAKS festival and again we performed with Zbor Roženice. We started our concert with the rousing song, “Men of Harlech” which in the wonderfully acoustic church woke up the audience. Ben Pinnow and Jayne Thomas again led us seamlessly through 14 varied songs ending with a fabulous joint choir rendition of “Speed Your Journey” (sung in both Croatian and English), “Neka Cijeli Ovaj Svijet” and last but by no means least an impromptu performance of Elvis Presley’s, “Wise Men”!
The morning after the concert the choir had an early breakfast before setting off to mass at the Parish Church of St. Martin in Vrsar where we joined in mass by singing “Benedictus”, “Gwahoddiad”, “Morte Criste”, “Heilig Sanctus” and “The Lords Prayer”.
The singing at mass went down so well the priest asked us to perform a few songs after the religious ceremony and our performance of “With A Voice of Singing” and “Rachie” were warmly received by the local community. Our choir Chairman, Robert Davies was also put on the spot during mass by the priest when he was asked to read a sermon to the congregation. Rob (or Father Bob as we now like to call him) conducted himself great aplomb and delivered the sermon as if he had been practicing it for a month!
And finally we would like to extend our warmest thanks to the people that made this trip happen so smoothly. Brian Williams has worked tirelessly on every detail to ensure that 110 choristers, musical team and friends and family were moved en-mass from Aberdare to Italy to Croatia, everywhere in between and back home again. Further thanks to Rob Davies our chairman and Denzil Boaler our Vice chairman and all members of the team that made this trip happen and for their organisation and commitment to the choir whilst out on tour. And there ended the 2016 Croatian tour! The Croatian organisers and the audiences we performed to were so thrilled that we have already been asked back next year to perform in the choral section of the FAKS festival! Committee members have already started looking into 2017 and a return trip to Vrsar and Croatia!!
Malvern Priory Church Concert with Malvern Primary School
Created: Friday, 24 June 2016 17:51
On Saturday 18th June, Cwmbach choir joined forces with Malvern Primary School at the historic Malvern Priory Church. The audience and both choirs had a fabulous night to help celebrate the schools Centenary. The evening was fantastic and we were professionally led by our MD for the evening Rhiannon Williams-Hale.
Rhiannon guided us through an array of songs from “American Trilogy”, the beautiful “Gwahoddiad” to the choir’s final song which was performed with the school, “Jacobs Ladder”. The evening was well-received by the packed audience and the joint choirs were clapped off stage with a standing ovation.
A special thanks is extended to all those who helped organise the event. Jayne Thomas once again accompanied the choir with precision and aplomb (despite the fact she has a broken ankle and had to play the piano with her wrong foot). Special thanks to Cwmbach’s own Sheridan George who independently travelled to Malvern to set-up the piano and help arrange the stage (and of course for playing the 1,000 year old church organ to accompany Jayne and the choirs in song!)
Massed Concert with Pelenna Male Choir & Cwmdare Voices - St David's Neath
Created: Friday, 24 June 2016 16:59
On Saturday 4th June Cwmbach choir joined forces with Cwmdare Voices and Pelenna at a massed choral concert at St. David’s Church in Neath. The evening was fantastic and we were professionally and entertainingly led by our MD Prof. Mike Thomas. Mike guided us through an array of songs from “What A Wonderful World”, “Unchained Melody”, the rousing Amen’s of “Tydi a Roddaist” to the choir’s latest song called, “The Song Of The Jolly Roger”. The evening was a well-received by the packed audience and the joint choirs were clapped off stage with a standing ovation.
Grand Tour to Ludlow
Created: Thursday, 28 April 2016 17:39
On Saturday 23rd April 2016 the choir set off at 3pm on its epic journey to Ludlow for our Grand concert at the Ludlow Assembly Rooms. “Epic Journey?” Our N.A.T. coach driver was not familiar with the area and his satnav decided to take our double decker coach on a countryside visit of all the B roads, low bridges and narrow roads !
We did arrive in time to change into our formal dress suits and have a quick sound check before the audience poured into the Assembly Rooms at 7pm. Our new musical director, Dr. Mike Thomas skilfully led the choir through a wide ranging repertoire from classic Welsh male voice songs such as Gwahoddiad and Tydi a Roddaist to modern classics Let It Be Me and Can’t Take My Eyes Off You….. and everything in between.
Our resident soloist, Stefanie Harvey Powell travelled with the choir and her performance was warmly appreciated by the Ludlow audience. The choir was as ever accompanied by Jayne Thomas who was in fabulous form for both the choir and Stefanie. Sheridan George provided musical support by playing the organ to a number of the songs including performing our encore of Rachie from memory due to only one copy of the music being available! A special note of thanks is extended to Sheridan who travelled to Ludlow independently of the choir and was able to set-up the keyboard and organ in advance of the choir’s arrival (which as it turned out worked very well as if the choir had to set-up on arrival the concert would have started late)! Our compere Ken Jones was also in sparkling form and from the outset had the audience in the palm of his hand. Ludlow provided all the ingredients for a magical concert and we are all looking forward to returning to this beautiful town in the near future. Following the concert the choir then travelled a short distance to the Squirrel where we refreshed on the local beverages and bowls of chips! Our afterglow was appreciated by the locals who stayed with us until the Witching Hour when we sadly had to leave the beautiful town and return home (thankfully via the main A roads!)
Tony Lane
Created: Tuesday, 05 April 2016 14:28
We are deeply saddened to hear of the sudden passing of Tony Lane from the Baritone section. Tony had been with the choir for the best part of 5 years and joined following the sudden death of his beloved wife Nancy.
He took an active part in choir life and was a real character, never slow to dress up and always keen for a laugh. Tony had a heart of gold and very much wore that heart on his sleeve. He would do anything he could to help someone, although it was never really saf...e to have a lift with him - his driving could be somewhat erratic.
He took great comfort from the friends he made when he joined the choir and he will be very sorely missed.
I can see him now, sitting on that cloud with Nancy, dressed as Elvis and singing Wonder of You.
God Bless Tony - Nos Da.
These four men have together given 140 years of service to Cwmbach Male Choir
Created: Tuesday, 15 March 2016 11:12
David Phillips, Derek Mathews, Denzil Shopland and Bill Davies have been honoured by the choir for their dedication
Cwmbach Male Voice choir has presented certificates to acknowledge the dedicated service of choristers David Phillips, Derek Mathews, Denzil Shopland and Bill Davies.
Mr Davies has been with the choir for a remarkable 50 years, while former choir chairman and secretary Mr Mathews, former minute secretary Mr Phillips and Mr Shopland have each been with the choir for 30 years.
The presentations were made on stage during our recent St David’s Day concert at Aberdare ’s Coliseum Theatre.
Norman Blacker, public relations officer for Cwmbach Male Choir, has praised the four choristers’ dedication and commitment to the choir over a number of decades.
He said: “The presentations were made during our concert last week by our chairman Brian Williams – unfortunately Derek Mathews was unable to attend at the Coliseum Theatre.
“The dedication and commitment by these four members is a credit to them and will serve as an inspiration for the other members.
“They are four very important members of our ranks, and all so highly-respected and well thought of by everyone at Cwmbach Male Choir.
“The choir is celebrating 95 years this year we are fortunate to maintain a large choir number.”
And, the four long-serving choristers will be at the heart of what promises to be a busy few months for the choir, with the highlight of the summer schedule coming with a tour to Croatia and Venice during May.
Annual General Meeting
Created: Tuesday, 22 March 2016 12:23
Following the Annual General Meeting last night there are a number of changes to the Choir management team.
We would like to pass on our sincere thanks to Brian Williams who is stepping down as Chairman after 18 years at the helm. Brian has been wonderful in this role and has worked hard to maintain and develop the choir during this time. He doesn't get away completely as he will take up the position of General Secretary, a role that will keep him very busy.
Rob Davies will take on the position of Chairman. Rob has been with the choir for 5 years and is committed to, and passionate about, taking us towards our Centenary year in 2021.
We would also like to thank David Phillips who is standing down as Minute Secretary a position he has held for many years after asking to borrow a pen. He is replaced by Stuart Harding.
Our thanks go to Les Sims who steps down as General Secretary and rejoins the ranks of Bottom Bass. Les has done a stirling job for us and we are grateful for his efforts.
We welcome Neil Marshall to the committee.As one of our younger members he brings his exuberance and enthusiasm as well as professional skills in project management. Neil will be taking on administration of our Social Media and website.
All other officers retain their postions and we thank everyone for the hard work they put in, much of which goes un-noticed
Mr Bill Thomas
Created: Friday, 08 January 2016 08:40
Cwmbach Male Choir is saddened to learn of the death of Mr Bill Thomas of Glenboi. A Life Member since 2011, Bill (affectionately known as “Bill Admiral”in recognition of his long naval career) was a real character and a true gentleman. He had a strong bass voice and served Cwmbach Male Choir faithfully for over 30 years. Bill, for many years , maintained and filed the music copies for conductors and accompanists, and his system was, and still is, a joy to use! We send our sincere condolences to his daughter Menna, and to the rest of Bill’s family and friends at this sad time, and particularly to his brother David, also a faithful member of the Bass section of the choir. Bill always said that the Choir was an important part of his life, and the Choir will remember him with gratitude and affection.
Bill’s funeral service is to be held at Llwydcoed Crematorium on Friday 22 January at 11.15 am. The members of Cwmbach Male Choir will gather in strength at Llwydcoed on that Friday morning, and will mark his passing by singing his favourite hymns in a fond farewell to a committed and faithful chorister.
New CD Release !
Created: Tuesday, 24 November 2015 19:26
Hot off the press - our new CD release is on sale today. A selection of songs from the fantastic concert with Cenestra Male Choir from South Africa at The Coliseum, Aberdare in October 2014.
As well as some rousing Welsh tunes you can experience the unique singing style originating from The Zulu Nation as Cenestra perform in conjunction with Cwmbach Male Choir.
The CD costs £10.00 & P&P and is available from Mr Richard Rosser. It will be on sale at our Concert at Christmas in The Coliseum on 18th December (Tickets still available from the box office) Alternatively please message us here and we will provide further details on how to easily obtain this fantastic Christmas present.
You can also request a copy by emailing enquiries@cwmbachmalechoir.co.uk or checking in at our website www.cwmbachmalechoir.co.uk
The concert was recorded by Michael Gallen on behalf of Athena Media Ltd in conjunction with the RTE Lyric Radio series - Vocal Chords. All tracks were recorded at The Coliseum except track 17 which was recorded at Abercwmboi Rugby Club. The CD was edited and mastered by Sion Alun Jones at Stiwdio Sain, Llandwrog
Baby Oliver Concert for Charity
Created: Tuesday, 03 November 2015 16:12
Following the sad passing of Steve Fidler who was instrumental in putting this concert together we have to inform you that for the time being the concert at Mountain Ash Comprehensive School has been postponed. As soon as a new date is decided we will advise here and via our Facebook page.
Mr Gwyn Evans
Created: Tuesday, 10 November 2015 10:46
Cwmbach Male Choir is saddened to learn of the death of Mr Gwyn Evans of Penrhiwceiber at the grand old age of 95. A Life Member since 2011, Gwyn was a real gentleman, kind and jolly, a lovely baritone who served Cwmbach Male Choir faithfully for more than a generation. The master of the Gymanfa Ganu, he annually organised and led the choir and a large gathering of local admirers in the his beloved Carmel Chapel, always conducting the celebration of hymn tunes with gusto and enthusiasm. We send our sincere condolences to his wife Teg, to whom he was married for 68 years, and to their family and friends at this sad time. He will be greatly missed by one and all.
Gwyn’s funeral service is to be held at his beloved Carmel on Tuesday 17 November at 11.45 am, and will be followed by a committal service at Llwydcoed Crematorium. The members of Cwmbach Male Choir will gather in strength at Carmel to show their respect and love for a man who freely gave so much to his family, his chapel, his community and his choir.
Steve Fidler's Funeral Arrangements
Created: Wednesday, 28 October 2015 21:17
Thursday 5th November
St Margaret's Church Mountain Ash (by bowls club) at 10.45.
Then to Crematorium Llwydcoed for 12.00 noon.
Steve Fidler
Created: Monday, 26 October 2015 10:14
It is with deep regret that the choir has learned of the sudden passing of Steve Fidler, a well respected and popular member of the Baritone Section. Steve also served on the committee and was a committed member of Cwmbach Male Choir. Our thoughts and sympathies go to Steve's family and friends at this difficult time.
Malcolm Jones Memorial Day - Update
Created: Wednesday, 23 September 2015 07:05
Following our Memorial Day in Mumbles where we sang in honour of the late Malcolm Jones and to benefit RNLI Mumbles Lifeboat, we are please to say that our collection raised £328.40. The Choir would like to thank all that contributed, especially The George and Verdi's for allowing us to sing at their premises. The donation will be recorded by RNLI in the name of Malcolm's family. We know he would have enjoyed the day and would be proud of the result. God Bless Malcolm.
Colin Hughes
Created: Tuesday, 01 September 2015 06:53
The choir is sad to learn of the death of Colin Hughes, the author of "Lemon, Lime and Sarsparilla" regarded as the definitive book of the history of the Italian immigrants from the Bardi area into South Wales. When Colin learned of the choir's plan to visit Bardi in 2008 he joined the tour and, along with Aldo Baccheta, was the reason why the choir became involved in the commemorations of the sinking of the Arandora Star. Colin was a genuine supporter of the choir from his Buckinghamshire home, a generous and helpful man, he will be much missed by his family, to whom Cwmbach Male Choir sends its sincere condolences.
Future Events
Created: Monday, 07 September 2015 07:27
For a full list of our future events please visit our Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/pages/Cwmbach-Male-Choir/426254827428057?sk=events&key=events and don't forget to give us a like and share when you are there !
Appointment of Resident Soloist
Created: Tuesday, 25 August 2015 16:44
Stefanie Harvey-Powell
The Choir is delighted to announce that local girl Stefanie Harvey-Powell from Penderyn has been appointed resident soloist representing the choir.
Stefanie is a coloratura soprano and is currently studying for a Post Graduate Diploma in vocal studies at The Royal Welsh College of Music and Drama under the tutelage of Gail Pearson.
Stefanie began singing at a young age, participating in school plays and musical theatre groups. However, following the completion of her ‘A' Levels, Stefanie decided to follow a career in law and undertook a degree in law at Cardiff University, she is now a qualified solicitor.
Stefanie has always enjoyed singing musical theatre and following the completion of her Legal Practice Course in 2009, she began taking singing lessons with Soprano Elizabeth Donovan, as a hobby. She soon developed a huge passion for classical singing particularly opera and has continued to expand her vocal technique and operatic repertoire ever since.
Stefanie regularly performs as a concert soloist with choirs, as well as competing in the Welsh Eisteddfodau.
Phil Walters
Created: Saturday, 27 June 2015 05:56
It is with deep regret that we have to announce the passing of long time Vice President and friend of the choir Phil Walters. A solicitor and former Coroner for South Wales Phil was a well respected character in and around Aberdare. We send our condolences to his family.
Vocal Chords
Created: Monday, 25 May 2015 09:18
The Choir recently took part in a major news series on RTE Lyric FM.Vocal Chords is a five part music documentary series for The Lyric Feature on RTÉ lyric fm presented by one of Ireland’s most acclaimed sean-nós singers Iarla Ó Lionáird.
In a global exploration Iarla explores the question whether singing is mankind’s primary means of communication and why we sing in both times of joy and sorrow. In a vocal landscape from the sean nós tradition in Ireland, to the Zulu Mbube music of South Africa. Iarla talks to outstanding performers like Peter Gabriel, Sinéad O'Connor, Maria Pomianowska and, of course, Cwmbach Male Choir ,to uncover the story behind song, singing and the unique vocal styles of the world. This series takes listeners on a rich audio experience while addressing the simple but vital question, ‘What happens when you sing and why do we sing?’
You can listen to the series by following this link http://www.rte.ie/radio and get more information on the making of the series here http://vocalchords.ie/ Please take the time to listen to the whole hour. In series 2 at 29 minutes in you can hear a particularly interesting piece about the Choir's relationship with Paul Robeson including an interview with our choristor Jack Palmer who sang with him in a concert for Africa Freedom Day in 1960. Our Vice Chairman Denzil Boaler also provides an interesting perspective on the relationship between mining in South Wales and The Choir. There is also a potted history of our very special relationship with Cenestra Male Choir in an interview with their charismatic leader Elijah Themba Madlopha
Another chance to see Cenestra and Cwmbach in October !
Created: Monday, 08 September 2014 08:30
Tickets for The Coliseum concert are in short supply however you have another chance to see Cwmbach and Cenestra sing together.
Click here for tickets.
Don't miss out on this opportunity and help a very worthwhile charity at the same time.
Malcolm Jones R.I.P.
Created: Monday, 01 December 2014 09:28
The choir is very sad to annouce the sudden passing of Malcolm Jones. Malcolm was an integral part of the choir and served for over 50 years. A well respected gentleman, Malcolm had a keen sense of humour and contributed hugely to the baritone section and to the Choir overall. Malcolm was the life and soul of after-concert singsongs and was the man to be with on tours both home and overseas. We will miss him and choir life will not be quite the same without him. God Bless Malcom - Rest In Peace
Malcolm's funeral service will be held at 2.00pm on Wednesday 10th December at St.Winifreds, Heol Bryn Gwyn, Penywaun, Aberdare CF44 9BB then Llwydcoed Crematorium at 3.00pm. Refreshments are at Abercwmboi Rugby Club.
New Season Starts
Created: Monday, 01 September 2014 10:31
Rehearsals start again after the Summer break this Thursday 4th September at 7.00pm at Cwmbach Community School so if you have an interest in singing (plus travelling and having a few beers) please pop along. You are assured of a friendly welcome and even if you're unsure about joining you can get a flavour of what happens in rehearsal.
Fishguard Writers Holiday Conference
Created: Saturday, 26 July 2014 10:14
Well we had another fantastic night with the Writers Guild down in Fishguard. The boys were on form and our irreplaceable Chairman Brian Williams once again surpassed himself as a compere and leader of the afterglow singing! We always enjoy this event and we shared the stage tonight with a wonderful Soprano and Harpist. Joy Cornock, you were wonderful www.joycornock.co.uk . We all look forward to the event again next year which will be our 16th consecutive annual appearance.
Guestbook Archive now Live !
Created: Thursday, 17 July 2014 11:06
The Guestbook archive is now live and covers the period 2000 to present. Have a peek and see what others have thought of Cwmbach Male Choir over the years.
Get Garin Walking - Concert Review
Created: Friday, 11 July 2014 07:50
On a wonderful summers evening a enthusiastic audience joined the Choir and the children from Cwmbach Primary Community School at Green St Chapel. Compere, Ken Jones was on fine form and choir in fine voice. In the interval we were joined by a special young lady from Whitchuch, Cardiff in her first public performance. Well done Millie you are a star in the making. During the second half the children from the school joined the choir in a rendition of Jacobs Ladder that went down so well we sang it twice. The children performed to an excellent standard and they seemed to enjoy the experience. Perhaps most importantly we are advised that the concert raised over £700 for the Get Garin Walking Appeal and the choir is proud to have been of help. Good Luck Garin we hope it all goes well !
Garway Concert in the Barn
Created: Sunday, 13 July 2014 12:49
Concert in the Barn at Garway last night proved to be hugely successful and raised substantial funds in aid of the school and church. Afterwards we retired to The Garway Moon Inn for a hog roast and singalong. We met a lovely family who were out for dinner and just happened to have a singer in their company. Thank you Lisbee Stainton for your acapella rendition of Red - you were wonderful ! Check her page at www.lisbee.com and www.facebook.com/lisbeestainton.music.
Critics Review of Bradford on Avon Concert
Created: Friday, 11 July 2014 07:34
8th July 2014 - Gazette & Herald
Review of Cwmbach Male Choir at Wiltshire Music Centre - Reg Burnard
They sing, they say, in the language of heaven; they are British born but by the grace of God (maintains a friend of mine) Welsh. It is a Welsh Male Voice Choir: Cwmbach to be precise. And you will not hear better this side of Eastern Europe. A programme, partly devoted to the fascinating link they had with Paul Robeson, was full of fervour, passion, glorious sound; in fact, everything Welsh.
They had an excellent narrator - again with Welsh clarity of diction and enunciation - and, in Andrew Quick, a musical director who had a firm yet sympathetic hold. The choir did not miss a beat, oft times a millisecond ahead of Quick - call that Welsh passion - and their tone was constatnt, golden, to the end.
Their discipline, so often nowadays considered unimportant, was impeccable: All hands by sides as they sang, all across the lap as they sat; no fiddle faddling, no distraction. Newbury's American Trilogy was fascinating; John Rutter's arrangement of When the Saints Go Marching In was quite captivating but, for sheer roundness of sound and precision, the items sung in Welsh were the cream of the evening !
A Big Thank You to Dan Reynolds
Created: Thursday, 10 July 2014 15:41
The committee would like to express our sincere thanks to the very talented Mr Daniel Reynolds for the time and effort he has put in to creating the new web-site. Dan took on this project as he was just starting his final A Level exams and has shown commitment beyond the pale. Every meeting and phone call has been dealt with in a professional manner and has resulted in immediate action. We are sure that Rob Davies, our Website Co-ordinator must have driven him nuts over the last month or so. Good luck with the Exam results Dan, however we are sure a successful career in the I.T business beckons !
So once again - Thank You Dan ! and if anyone needs a professional website built contact Dan on 07572 428915 - he comes highly recommended !
David Coombs
Created: Tuesday, 20 May 2014 13:33
It is with great sadness that we have to annouce the passing of David Lewis Coombs on 20th May 2014 after a short illness bravely borne. David was a quite, unassuming man who regularly took his place in the baritone section, and enjoyed making a contribution in rehersal and concerts. David loved his music and was very knowledgeable in many aspects, especially the '60's and '70's. He will be missed by us all. God Bless !
Peter Linton
Created: Monday, 05 May 2014 08:49
5th May 2014 - It is with deep sadness that we have to announce the unexpected death of one of our long standing officers today. Peter Linton was a highly respected, valued and enduring member of our team. The events on our Scotland tour today have shocked us all, and we feel a communal sadness at Peters’ demise. Our thanks and respect go to the paramedic teams and Heli-Med doctors who worked so hard to save Peter's life - We will keep you up to date on when and where the funeral will take place. Rest in Peace Peter. Nos Da.
Get Garin Walking Concert
Created: Tuesday, 08 July 2014 11:00
This Thursday 10th July 2014 sees the choir perform at Green Street Chapel, Aberdare to raise funds for Garin Morgan, a pupil at our rehersal venue , Cwmbach Community Primary School. There are still tickets available at a cost of £5.00. Please make the effort to turn up to help this little boy walk again. Have a read of this article for more information Get Garin Walking Wales On LIne Article
Cynon Valley Museum
Created: Thursday, 03 July 2014 15:27
The Cynon Valley Museum is facing closure following swingeing cuts to budgets by Rhonnda Cynon Taff Clounty Borough Council. Please show your support for them by following a detailed history of the Choir here.