Gron Wynne is a much appreciated member of our choir. An all-rounder, ever-ready to help and lend his expertise for the benefit of the choir. This is his personal account.
Gron Wynne
Born and bred in Denbigh – one of Sister Jones’ deliveries, for those of you interested in such matters. Schooled and educated in Denbigh. After a short spell working in the North Wales Hospital, I left Denbigh town to pursue a career in “computing.” As it was called in those far off days.
Gron Wynne Family Musical Influence
My family was very musical. Taid (grandad) and uncle played in the Denbigh Town Band. Another uncle (married into the family) was a brilliant pianist.
Nain (grandma), dad and mam keen and accomplished singers. I inherited the keenness but not the ability!
In typical Welsh lifestyle, I attended chapel. I also toured the local eisteddfodau as a youngster. This helped instil a love of music which has lasted a lifetime.
My uncle’s 78rpm records, played on a wind up gramophone, gave me my love of big band music. Especially Glen Miller and Benny Goodman.
Gron Wynne Leaving of Denbigh
After leaving Denbigh I was not much involved in music until 1982 when I moved to Anglesey. Then I joined the Wylfa Theatre Group as stage manager. I made several varied appearances on stage, including once as the pantomime dame. Oh yes I did !
In 1997 I joined North Wales’ number one choir – Côr Meibion Dinbych a’r Cylch.
Gron Wynne Runs Off Choir Cream Tea in the London Marathon
Within six months of joining I was “volunteered” as treasurer, a post I currently hold. As well as stage manager and “wardrobe mistress”(“suits you sir!”).
I travelled weekly from Anglesey for about 7 years but then returned to live in Denbigh. Now, I’ve reversed the process, as I travel back to Anglesey, where I am a member of a small singing group!
Gron Wynne Joins Hometown Choir
Joining the choir was like gaining a second family. All members looking out for each other.
In retirement, it replaced the camaraderie and banter you tend to miss from the workplace.
One of my favourite choral songs may seem a peculiar choice to some. It’s “Close Thine Eyes”, a 17th century gem by Henry Purcell, with lyrics by Francis Quarles.
Of our current programme I particularly like “Fy Mhlentyn” and “Take me Home”.
Gron Wynne on Choir Lincoln Trip
In conclusion, I have enjoyed many wonderful trips and events with the choir. Travelling to places which I may not otherwise have experienced.
Particularly memorable ‘on the road’ concerts are Oughterard (Nr. Galway), Sunderland and Beaumaris Castle.
Looking to the future, I would like the choir to stage a “picnic” concert. Like the “Dragon’s Fire” in the Denbigh castle grounds, it would be quite something.
Outside the choir, I keep myself busy with DIY, painting and stained glass work. I’m also a Volunteer Tour Guide around the historic town of Denbigh.
My wife, Brenda, is NSPCC Flintshire and Denbighshire Branch Secretary. We both are involved with its fund raising and I ran the London Marathon for the “NSPCC.”
The proceeds of our next concert at St Mary’s Church, Denbigh, on Saturday, November 19 are for the NSPCC. Come and support us.
Gron’s Late Again !
Oh yes….how could I forget another pastime, looking after Meg, our Scottie.
Reading your story took me back almost 60yrs to the time you worked in the Treasurer’s Department in “The County Offices” in Ruthin and I worked ín the Surveyor’s Dept in the “Old Jail”. Names come floodng back – Alun Williams, Tom Evans, Will Price in “Wages” Iris Jones and her girls ( including my wife Ann Malley) in “Punch Cards” !!!! Others included John Owen Jones, Alwyn, Andrew Williams, Mr Keith, Doris, Mary ( Comps Sect.) Olga Edwards etc. etc. ! Remember frantic Roadmen Timesheet payment deadlines. Good Old Days. Regards. Neville
Hi Neville
Thanks for reading this blog and for your comments .
You’ve reminded me of names I’d forgotten. Memories flooded back.
Stop ageing yourself – it was nearly 50 years not 60 !
As you say, “Good old days” but did they seem that good at the time especially the ’74 merger with Flintshire ?
All the best
Gron