Galeri’s Theatre was alive with the sound of music from all four corners of the globe on Sunday 8th November. Despite the blustery weather outside, nothing seemed to dampen the spirits as a packed house, whose age ranges spanned from 4 months to 80 +, was treated to a spectacular concert that marked the launch of the 2016 Wales International Piano Festival.
No less than twelve of the Canolfan Gerdd William Mathias’s piano tutors performed duets and trios from the classical, jazz and popular piano repertoire with accompanying images.
Immediately following the concert the audience enjoyed a ‘paned’ and a slice of the magnificent cake made especially for the event by Enlli Vaughan.
Wales International Piano Festival Director, Iwan Llewelyn-Jones gave the audience a brief outline of the Festival programme that will include a much anticipated recital by the world renowned concert pianist Peter Donohoe, an evening devoted to the very best of Welsh music and musicians, and a gala ‘Fiesta’ night for all the family. With competitions, classes and informal concerts this promises to be an action packed four days!
Sunday’s concert also saw the official launch of the festival’s fundraising initiative – Noddi Nodyn / Sponsor a Note – an unique opportunity for individuals and businesses to support the festival by sponsoring any note on the piano for £50.
Canolfan Gerdd William Mathias’ Director Meinir Llwyd Roberts said:
It was fantastic to see our piano tutors together on stage. We are very grateful to Festival Director Iwan Llewelyn-Jones and all the tutors for all their hard work and for ensuring that the launch was a resounding success. We also extend our sincere thanks to Ian Jones (Pianos Cymru) for supporting this concert.
The Wales International Piano Festival will be held between Friday 29th April and Monday 2nd May 2016 at Galeri, Caernarfon.