The concert season opener at St John’s Church, Llandudno got off to an enthusiastic start on May 8. The choir, guest soloist Kathryn Nash, and an appreciative audience made it a memorable night.
Although not at its full complement, the choir served up an interesting collection of songs. Our music director and conductor, Arwyn Roberts, has the expertise in preparing a varied concert programme.
Warm Atmosphere at Concert Season Opener
From the stirring opening of ‘Y Ddau Wladgarwr’ to the tender refrain of ‘Abide With Me,’ the warm atmosphere generated by a near capacity audience was palpable.
Compere, Clwyd Wynne.
Choir compere, Clwyd Wynne, enjoyed humorous interactions with the audience. We found out that we had international visitors from Australia, New Zealand, America, Canada, and Finland.
Such a cosmopolitan collection, added to the visitors from all over the UK, made us feel very privileged.
Kathryn Nash Guests at Concert Season Opener
Our guest soloist, Kathryn Nash, has appeared with us on many occasions. Her delightful stage presence, allied with a stunning vocal range, make her such a favourite.
Handel’s Largo (Ombra Mai Fu) and Rossini’s Cruda Sorte displayed all of Kathryn’s virtuosity and vocal range.
Likewise, her emotional rendition of ‘My Little Welsh Home’ clearly moved the audience. This was musical story-telling at its most captivating.
The jaunty Welsh folk song “Deio i Dywyn” completed her solo contribution.
Our accompanist Nia Jones also provided sensitive and outstanding accompaniment throughout the entire concert.
Conductor Arwyn Roberts and Nia Jones (accompanist) left and guest soloist Kathryn Nash.
Choral Highlights at Concert Season Opener
Moreover, notable, well received contributions from the choir were ‘Pan Fyddo’r Nos yn Hir’, ‘Song of the Jolly Roger’, ‘The Rose’ with a fine solo from Peter Davies, ‘Fy Mhlentyn’ and ‘Yn y Man’.
The choir then joined Kathryn for La Vergine, Verdi’s outstanding aria from ‘The Force of Destiny’. We always enjoy being her backing group.
Four new members of the choir also turned out to give their audience support. We appreciate that and look forward to their on-stage presence very soon.
Our ever supportive vice president, Medwyn Jones and his wife Mary, were also in the audience. We are very fortunate.
We return to St John’s Church for another concert on August 2, 2018.
Leave a Reply