At times of world turmoil it’s reassuring to return to basics. To return to a valued christian singing tradition.
Consequently, the choir attended the Cymanfa Ganu (Singing Festival). It took place at Rehoboth Chapel, Prestatyn on Sunday, June 26, 2016.
A Cymanfa Ganu is a Welsh festival of sacred hymns. Sung with four part harmony by a congregation. Usually under the direction of a choral director.
Beryl Lloyd Roberts
We were fortunate in having the services of Beryl Lloyd Roberts. A former school teacher and a music tutor. She is a mainstay of choral singing in Denbighshire.
Beryl Lloyd Roberts – Director of christian singing tradition
Beryl Lloyd Roberts has vast experience of choral singing.
Most noteworthy, she has led the Cymanfa Ganu at the National Eisteddfod.
Other large annual ones occur at the Llangollen International Musical Eisteddfod.
World-Wide Christian Singing Tradition
Cymanfaodd Canu are not confined to Wales. They are a valued christian singing tradition held across the world. Most of all wherever people of Welsh heritage live.
In Patagonia (Argentina), for example, there are significant Welsh settlements from the 19th Century. The Cymanfa Ganu is still held there.
Introductions
Choir member Gwyn Williams, in his role of committee chairman, welcomed the congregation.
In addition, he also introduced Beryl Lloyd Roberts and organist Ann Evans.
Gwyn Williams
Bethel Chapel Quartet started the musical feast. A delightful Welsh hymn in four part harmony.
Now it was down to business. Under the beguiling charisma of Beryl Lloyd Roberts the congregation performed admirably.
As a result the mesmerising simplicity of ‘Santo, Santo’ to the full majesty of ‘Sanctus’ sounded full and wholesome.
Also Beryl reminded us, most of all, to pay attention to the musical phrasing and diction.
She was fulsome in her praise. Especially because of the effort in learning some of the modern hymns.
Choir Role in Christian Singing Tradition
Arwyn Roberts, Musical Director
Now it was the choir’s turn. Musical director Arwyn Roberts said that he had grown up with the Gymanfa Ganu. It had been a pleasurable christian singing tradition of a lifetime.
Due to a number of factors some choir members were unable to be present.
However, the choir’s four items, I Bwy y Perthyn Mawl, Gwawrio Mae’r Bore, Calon Lan and Yn y Man were well received.
So, after much planning and rehearsing, the Cymanfa Ganu had been a success.
In conclusion the ladies served up a sumptuous tea. Elfed Evans, on behalf of the choir, thanked all the persons responsible.
Furthermore, it’s always good to maintain and take part in another christian singing tradition.
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