The oldest members, Alyn Lloyd and Arthur Jones, have reluctantly retired from the choir. Advancing years and general infirmity have been contributing factors. This is an appreciation of their service and dedication to the choir.
Arthur Jones
Arthur Jones
The small village of Llanrhaeadr, on the outskirts of Denbigh, is where Arthur Jones grew up. He has lived in the district all his life.
“My father was a member of the original Denbigh Male Voice Choir, well over 50 years ago. I had a Ford 8 car at the time and I enjoyed taking him to the choir practice at St Thomas’s Church. That’s how I acquired my first interest in choral singing.”
Arthur became more involved when he joined the Denbigh Mixed Choir. Mrs Phyllis Dryhurst-Dodd was the conductor.
He also sang with the North Wales Hospital Mixed Choir Again with the redoubtable Mrs Dodd holding the baton.
The Hospital choir disbanded in 1988. She then became the first conductor of the Denbigh and District Male Voice Choir in 1988.
It was at that time that Arthur became an original choir member of the Denbigh and District Male Voice Choir.
Arthur has no doubt that his family has been the greatest influence on his musical career. No fewer than four close relatives have been members of the Denbigh and District Male Voice Choir.
Alyn Lloyd
Alyn Lloyd
A Picture of Contentment
Alyn Lloyd grew up in Llandudno Junction. He states that his mother, who had a good contralto voice, was a major influence on his singing.
Alyn Lloyd enjoys a great love of opera. More than 30 annual visits to the Verona Opera is adequate proof.
“I’ve seen all the greats there, including Pavarotti” recalls Alyn.
At the age of 60 Alyn joined Llanddulas Male Voice Choir, staying with them for 22 years. They travelled a lot during that time, performing concerts in as many as 14 countries.
Looking back on his singing career he says with serene satisfaction, “it’s been a good life.”
Alyn Lloyd and Arthur Jones
In conclusion, all choir members wish Alyn Lloyd and Arthur Jones peace and contentment in their ‘retirement’ from choral duties.
These are abridged versions of the profiles of the two members which can be seen by clicking on the respective names.
I hope they have a long and happy retirement and good health. Well done!
Thank you Marilyn for your thoughtful sentiments. They will be missed in the choir.
Comments received via Facebook:
Happy retirement gents, you will be missed. Julie Roberts. x
Thank you for making such a wonderful contribution. Carys Caisey
Happy retirement both I am sure you will be missed xx. Denise Williams
Thank you for your appreciative comments – they will be well received
Dim ond un Arthur ar ol rwan? Dwi’n cofio cyfarfod Arthur Jones yn y Kings Head pan oeddwn i hefo Uncle Arthur a’r ddau yn siarad am y ffaith bod tri Arthur yn y cor ar y pryd. Diolch i’r ddau am ei cyfraniad dros y blynyddoedd. Eryl Aynsley
Translation:
Only one Arthur left in the choir now? I remember meeting Arthur Jones in the Kings Head when I was with my Uncle Arthur and they said that there were three Arthur’s in the choir.
Thanks to the two of them for their contribution over the years.
Thanks Eryl for the nostalgia and appreciation. No more Arthur’s left in the choir.