In north Wales the name of Colin Jones is synonymous with music. Especially choral singing. After 60 years of conducting, Colin announced his retirement in 2008. However, his retirement has turned out to be temporary.
Gifted Musician
Born and bred in Rhosllanerchrugog (Rhos), Colin possessed exceptional musical talent from a young age.
From the age of six success came his way at numerous piano competitions. This included winning at the Urdd National Eisteddfod when aged 11 years.
Furthermore, he won the prestigious open piano competition at Llangollen International Eisteddfod at the tender age of 14.
Rhos Male Voice Choir
Three years later he became accompanist to the Rhos Male Voice Choir. At the age of 21 he became Musical Director.
Moreover, notable success attained at the national eisteddfod. For a quarter of a century the competition had been dominated by two choirs.
From the south Wales valleys, Morriston Orpheus and Treorchy were the unbeatables. Then, in 1962 at Llanelli, it all changed.
Despite being 130 voices strong the Rhos choir was still regarded as the north Wales David’s to the Goliath’s of south Wales.
Four hundred Rhos people travelled to cheer their choir to an emphatic victory.
His partnership with accompanist John Tudor Davies lasted 30 years. It took the choir to further unprecedented success.
After leaving Rhos MVC in 1987 Colin was very much in demand as a guest conductor and accompanist. Eminent soloists such as Sir Geraint Evans, Stuart Burrows and Bryn Terfel sought his services.
Cantorion Colin Jones
In 1991, on the request of 3 members of Rhos MVC, Colin forms his own choir.
One of the members was David Jones, now a member of Denbigh and District Male Voice Choir.
David Jones was chairman of Cantorion Colin Jones for ten years. He has kindly provided most of the detail for this Blog.
Cantorion Colin Jones composed of singers whom Colin had taught and conducted previously in choirs across North Wales.
After a long and successful period as its original founder and choral architect Colin retired in November 2008. The choir is now called Cantorion Gogledd Cymru.
Corws Colin Jones Emerges
After another recess from conducting Corws Colin Jones Chorus emerged in 2015.
Our own choir conductor, Arwyn Roberts, is an original member of Cantorion Colin Jones. He is now also a member of Corws Colin Jones, and describes Colin as:
“unassuming and undemonstrative, possessing a wealth of experience and musical talent.
What Colin doesn’t know about choral singing is not worth knowing. He is the Maestro.”
Brother Geraint Roberts, also a member of our choir and Corws Colin Jones, states that:
“It’s such a thrilling experience to sing with Colin. He also earns total respect from every choir member. He knows exactly what he wants from a choir.
It’s all achieved with minimal and subtle movements of his hands.”
Editor’s Footnote: Colin Jones passed away in February 2019 at the age of 83.
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