by Gwydion Davies | 24 March, 2016 | Uncategorized
The
Wales International Piano Festival will be held from 29 April – 2 May 2016 at
Galeri, the iconic arts centre in Caernarfon. This year’s festival has a new
Director, pianist Iwan Llewelyn-Jones and is the third festival to be presented
by Canolfan Gerdd William Mathias (CGWM/The William Mathias Music
Centre). The festival comprises concerts, competitions, masterclasses,
workshops, lectures and interviews with guest artists.
Peter
Donohoe, acclaimed international pianist, opens the festival on Friday 29 April
at 7.45pm in a recital of works by Ravel, Debussy, Scriabin and Rachmaninov. A
former winner and recent jury member of the Tchaikovsky International Piano
Competition, Peter Donohoe will chair the Jury for the Senior Solo Piano Competition.
The
first of three piano competitions begins on the morning of Saturday 30 April
with the preliminary stage of the Junior Solo Piano Competition; the final
round takes place on the afternoon of Sunday 1 May. The Senior Solo and Piano
Accompanist Competitions begin on the morning of Sunday 1 May (preliminary
rounds) with the public finals on the afternoon of Monday 2 May. Participants
come from all over the UK and abroad.
At
lunchtime on Saturday 30 April, there will be a concert entitled ‘Satie on the Sidewalk’,
celebrating the music of Erik Satie.
The
evening concert on the 30 April at 7.45pm showcases the versatility of Welsh
music and musicians, featuring six world premieres of specially commissioned
short works for solo piano, inspired by images and words on the theme of ‘Peace
and Remembrance’. Three works are by young, upcoming composers and three by
renowned composers of international standing: Paul Mealor, well known for his
anthem for the marriage of The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge; Richard Baker,
noted for his orchestral and chamber music, and Owain Llwyd who is at the
cutting edge of film and media composition. The young composers are Luke
Lewis, Mared Emlyn and Maja Palser.
The
Festival Education Project reaches its climax in this Saturday evening concert
with the premiere performance of a new work for chamber ensemble by four
young A-level students. This three-movement composition with accompanying
fanfares will be performed by instrumentalists from CGWM.
On
Sunday 1 May at 7.45 we go into ‘Fiesta’ mode when the piano take centre stage
to raise the roof with other instrumentalists, singers and narrators in a
concert of music from across the globe including Lambert’s Rio Grande,
Poulenc’s delightful setting of Babar the Elephant and Milhaud’s Scaramouche.
The programme features five pianists, including Festival Director Iwan
Llewelyn-Jones, and the CGWM Chamber Choir.
On
the final morning, Monday 2 May, two fun events will be held in Galeri’s
atrium: ‘Coffee and Croissants with Chopin and Debussy’ at 10.00am and at
midday, the ‘Pianothon’, where pianists of all ages and abilities have an
opportunity to tinkle the ivories.
by Gwydion Davies | 24 March, 2016 | Uncategorized
The
Wales Harp Festival will be held on Wednesday 6 & Thursday 7 April at the
arts centre, Galeri, in the culturally dynamic town of Caernarfon.
Directed by world renowned harpist Elinor Bennett, this year’s Festival
features a two-day course for harpists, as well as public concerts and a
lecture recital. The Festival is an annual event organised by
Canolfan Gerdd William Mathias Music Centre. Every fourth year it becomes the
larger scale Wales International Harp Festival. The next International
Festival will be held in 2018.
A
two-day Harp Course takes place from 10am – 5pm on Wednesday 6 and Thursday 7
April and is suitable for harpists of all ages and abilities. Tutors include
Festival Director, Elinor Bennett, Eira Lynn Jones (Professor of Harp at the
Royal Northern College of Music), Morwen Blythin, Einir Wyn Hughes and Dylan
Wyn Rowlands.
On
Wednesday 6 April at 7pm, Lord Thomas of Gresford, QC, gives a fascinating
history of his family who originate from the famous Welsh Romani, Abram
Wood. Lord Thomas is descended from Abram Wood’s granddaughter, Black
Ellen – a reputed witch – whom he describes as “the finest story-teller and
the most powerful witch of all the descendants”.
Another
prominent member of his family was the famous harpist, John Roberts, ‘The
Harpist of Wales’ whose 200th anniversary we celebrate during this
year’s Festival. Following his family tradition, Lord Thomas has recently
learnt to play the harp and will perform short excerpts during his talk.
Festival
Director Elinor Bennett said: “It is particularly interesting that a
distinguished member of the Upper Chamber in Parliament UK talks about his
itinerant and immigrant ancestors who contributed so richly to folk music in
Wales over two hundred years ago.”
The
talk is followed by a short performance by Elinor Bennett on the Welsh Triple
Harp. Her programme will include Sonata No.3 from Four Lessons 1761
written by the great 18th century harpist John Parry. “
A
spectacle of fifty harpists playing together takes place on the galleries and
balconies of the Galeri foyer at 5:00pm on Thursday 7 April. This event
will include a variety of ensemble pieces and a mass performance of dance tunes
taught during the course by Robin Huw Bowen in further
commemoration of John Roberts.
The
Festival Concert features a range of music from traditional to jazz and takes
place on Thursday 7 April at 7:30pm. Gypsy music of Wales is performed by Robin
Huw Bowen ‘Master of the Triple Harp’and performing Irish
folk music are Irish duo Chris Newman (guitar) and Maire Ni Chathasaigh (harp),
who has just been awarded Female Musician of the Year in Live Ireland 2016
Awards.
Award-winning young harpist Ben Creighton-Griffiths plays jazz on the new Camac
Electric Harp,
incorporating its technology and impressive special effects into his programme.
This exceptionally talented harpist, who is still in his teens, made his first
international professional debut in 2004 at only 7 years old.
The
2016 Wales Harp Festival is supported by Clogau Gold, Arts Council of Wales,
Gwynedd Council and Telynau Vining Harps.
by Gwydion Davies | 3 March, 2016 | Uncategorized
A
busy day in Llangollen on St. David’s Day!
A
fun day for babies, toddlers and their parents/guardians was organised by
Menter Iaith to celebrate Diwrnod Dathlu Dewin.
Many
organisations were in attendance including our very own Camau Cerdd.
Sessions
of Cropian Cerdd (Shuffle Time Music) and Camau Cyntaf (First Steps) were held
during the course of the day and a lot of fun was had by all!
Through
song and music making we visited the sea side, the farm and the jungle. We
learnt our do-re-mi’s with Mr Cerdd and felt the beats of music with Plu Enfys.
The sessions also included our new song about the daffodil, celebrating Saint
David’s day perfectly.
Camau
Cerdd had a wonderful time in Llangollen and we hope to be back some time in
the not so distant future.
If
you were at the event or are sorry you missed it then please take note that we
will be doing some similar sessions in Denbigh on the 3rd of April.
More
information coming soon – follow us on Facebook.
by Gwydion Davies | 11 February, 2016 | Uncategorized
Wyn
ap Gwilym from Llanfair Dyffryn Clwyd, Ruthin, has recently passed his grade 3
harp exam.
Wyn
studies the harp with Morwen Blythin at Canolfan Gerdd William Mathias Music
Centre in Denbigh. He previously passed his grade 8 piano whilst a student at
Abergele Grammar School, before he went on to study Micropaleontology (the
study of micro-fossils) at Aberystwyth University.
Whilst
studying at Aberystwyth, Wyn happened to visit Carmarthen Eisteddfod where he
saw a stand displaying a brand new harp which was made out of carbon fibre. Wyn
was drawn to the instrument, and decided to buy it.
He
took the harp back with him to the Solomon Islands where he was living at the
time. Wyn found that playing the harp was a rewarding activity and it reminded
him of his Welsh roots, especially being so far from Wales. He recalls:
‘I
played the harp in numerous locations on the Islands, the most interesting
place was on a French research ship called, The Norris. The majority of the
crew came from Brittany, and we had a lot of fun singing Breton lyrics to Welsh
folk melodies!’
It
wasn’t until Wyn returned to Wales in the 70s to study a doctorate degree in
Aberystwyth that he started to have harp lessons. But with the pressure of work
and a new baby, he had to put the harp to one side for a while. Despite this,
the harp travelled with him when he moved back to the Solomon Islands, then on
to Singapore, and even to Saudi Arabia, where he lived and worked until 2013
before finally moving back to Wales.
In
2015, Wyn started his lessons with Morwen Blythin and now a year later he has
passed his grade 3 harp exam with distinction. His tutor said:
‘To
think that Wyn has only been having harp lessons with us here at Canolfan Gerdd
William Mathias Denbigh for a year, he has made significant progress and learns
very quickly. Wyn is incredibly enthusiastic about learning the harp, and I
enjoy teaching him immensely.’
Wyn
is now looking forward to continuing his lessons and preparing for his next
grade.
by Gwydion Davies | 17 December, 2015 | Uncategorized
On
Monday 14th December 2015 the specially designed music room at Bryn
Seiont Newydd – the Dementia Care Centre recently opened by Pendine Park
Company- was used for its first performance. Marie-Claire Howorth and Meinir
Llwyd Roberts from Canolfan Gerdd William Mathias hosted an informal
interactive performance involving some of the pupils of the successful project
Camau Nesaf Cerdd (Next Steps in Music) for 4-7 year olds.
The
residents were charmed by the children’s characterful sense of dress and
ability to play and share their music. They participated in the activities by
shaking pom-poms and playing bells. To close the event Marie-Claire’s grade 6
and 8 clarinet pupils (who had also performed in the event) provided the
accompaniment for some festive carol singing. We would like to thank all the
parents and staff at Bryn Seiont Newydd for making this event possible
and enjoyable. The children particularly loved the cakes!
We
look forward to 2016 when we hope to continue this important venture between
the younger and senior members of our community with Nia Davies Williams the
Resident Musician at Bryn Seiont and Resident Visual Artist Nia Lloyd-Roberts.
To find out more about Camau Cerdd please see the Camau Cerdd page on this
website or find us on facebook/camaucerdd
by Gwydion Davies | 10 December, 2015 | Uncategorized
The
first series of Camau Cerdd (Steps in Music) project in Denbigh has come to an
end, and Canolfan Gerdd William Mathias are delighted to announce that the
series has been a huge success.
The
Camau Cerdd project has been developed in partnership between Canolfan Gerdd
William Mathias and musician Marie-Claire Howorth since 2007. The project’s
tutor in Denbigh is Charlotte Green who also tutors in areas of Gwynedd and
Anglesey following the recent expansion of the project.
The
project’s aim is to offer music tuition for children from the very start. An
education in music has the potential to empower the body and brain: develop
literacy and communication; emotional intelligence; numeracy; coordination;
memory and social skills. Camau Cerdd also develops a firm basis for further
musical learning when the children go on to start one-to-one instrumental or
singing lessons.
Support
was received by Menter Iaith Sir Ddinbych and Denbighshire Arts Service to
develop the project in Denbigh and two sessions for different age groups were
held:
Camau
Cyntaf Cerdd (First Steps in Music) sessions for children between 15
months and 3 years old were held at the HWB Dinbych. They provided a general
introduction to the world of music and also inspired parents and carers to use
music confidently with their children at home.
Camau
Nesaf (Next Steps in Music) is for children between 4 and 7 years old
and the sessions were held in Theatr Twm o’r Nant where the Music Centre also
provides one to one music tuition for children and adults. The aim of these
music sessions that were held through the medium of Welsh is to develop the
children’s understanding of music in a fun way through games, sol-fa and
musical instruments.
A
special session was held on the last week to celebrate the success of the
series. Menter Iaith arranged for everyone to have a “panad” and cake and the
end of the session, giving everyone the opportunity to socialise and reflect on
the series.
The
children of the Next Steps classes gave their parents an informal concert to
show them the progress they have made over the series. The children were proud
to show them what they had learnt including singing sol-fa, playing the
pentatonic scale on bells, showing their parents the different rhythms and
finishing by dancing as they played a Latin-American rhythm on Clave.
The
parents were very proud to see their children enjoying themselves as they got a
taste of what they had been learning. Elin Jones said:
‘My
child enjoyed the sessions very much. I have been hearing her singing do re mi
often. The activities are fun, colourful and memorable. Thanks to Charlotte for
being so lively and friendly’.
Charlotte
Green, Camau Cerdd tutor explains the importance of the project:
‘By
the time children start their musical education at school or start receiving
instrumental or singing lessons, Steps in Music will have already given them a
firm grasp of the world of music –understanding rhythm, being able to read
music, have a knowledge of different instruments and the sounds that they make,
and being able to listen and express themselves through music’.
The
next series of Camau Cerdd will start in Denbigh on the 11th of
January with many of the children looking forward to continuing in their
musical learning. New members are welcome. To book a space for your child, download the registration form or contact us.
by Gwydion Davies | 16 November, 2015 | Uncategorized
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.
by Gwydion Davies | 7 November, 2015 | Uncategorized
This November, Galeri Arts Centre in
Caernarfon will be alive with the sounds of piano music from across the world
as the tutors Canolfan Gerdd William Mathias Music Centre come together to
showcase their talents, celebrate the world of piano music, and whet the
appetite for the prestigious forthcoming Wales International Piano Festival
being held at Galeri in the Spring of 2016.
The programme for the afternoon concert at 3pm on the 8th of November will include a feast
of piano duets and trios from Classical, Jazz and Popular repertoire, involving
almost a dozen pianists truly providing something for everyone.
The repertoire represents a musical journey across the world,
taking in the sounds of France, Germany, the Czech Republic and Russia through
the works of Fauré, Ravel, Poulenc, Handel, Dvorak and Rachmaninov.
The players will take the audience to even more exotic
destinations, with the work of Arthur Benjamin representing the Caribbean;
Percy Grainger evoking the sights and sounds of Zanzibar in Africa;
and the towering figures of George Gershwin and Dave Brubeck bringing the brash
and stylish flavours of the United States to the shores of the Menai.
A highlight of the concert will be a
4-handed, two piano performance of ‘Eryri’ by rising star of the Music Centre,
16 year old
Math Roberts, from pianists – Sian
Wheway and Sioned Webb, rooting the concert firmly on the home ground of
Snowdonia.
The festival is also proud to announce that the veteran
international concert pianist John Lill has kindly agreed to become Patron of
the 2016 festival, with the composer John Metcalf its President. Their backing
underlines the importance and status of the Wales International Piano Festival
in the musical calendar, and the quality and ambition it plans encourage.
International
concert pianist Iwan Llewelyn-Jones, Director of the 2016 Festival says:
This
will be a fabulous curtain raiser for what promises to be a stunning action
packed festival in the spring. We’ll be showcasing wonderful music for
all tastes which I hope will appeal not just to piano music enthusiasts, but to
anyone who wants to be introduced to what the piano world has to offer.
Meinir
Llwyd Roberts, Director of Canolfan Gerdd William Mathias Music Centre says:
This concert, leading up to the International Festival in 2016 is proof of the standing of Canolfan Gerdd William Mathias in the musical world. Following on from the success of our International Harp festivals, we’re fast becoming a musical powerhouse not just in Wales and across the UK but Internationally as well.
You
can book your ticket from Galeri Box Office online or over the phone (01286
685222)
by Gwydion Davies | 3 November, 2015 | Uncategorized
A
concert was held at the end of September by Canolfan Gerdd William Mathias at
Galeri Caernarfon to recognise the success of its students during the previous
academic year.
The
concert included performances by some of the Music Centre’s most promising
students with soloists including Medi Morgan, Medi Evans, Megan Hunter, Erin
Swyn Williams, Gwenno Morgan, Ynyr Pritchard, Seimon Menai, and Math Roberts
taking to the stage.
The
Music Centre’s instrumental and vocal ensembles were also well represented on
the night with performances by the Cello Ensemble, Piano Trio, String Quartet
and Chamber Choir.
It
wasn’t performance alone that was recognised on the night, with the Music
Centre taking pride in including pieces composed by its young students in the
programme.
Thalia
Lichtenstein is a member of the Cello Ensemble, and some months ago she
composed a piece with the ensemble in mind. The piece was titled ‘Atgofion
Heddychlon’ (which translates as ‘Peaceful Memories’.)
Nicola
Pierce, the Music Centre’s cello tutor and leader of the ensemble said:
Thalia
composed this lovely piece especially for the group. It was a privilege to
perform this work and great experience for Thalia – not only to hear the piece
being performed in concert but also conducting the performance.
Another
young composer who was recognised in the concert was Gwydion Rhys who composed
‘Introduction & Grand Polonaise’ for cello and piano.
Gwydion,
12 years old from Llanllechid, had composed the piece with his cello tutor,
Nicola Pierce in mind who performed the piece on the night with accomplished
pianist and CGWM tutor Steven Evans. Nicola said:
Here
is a mature piece composed by Gwydion which displays many different techniques
on the cello and piano.
One
of the highlights of the night was presenting some of the Music Centre’s
students with prises. Math Roberts from Llanrug won the Ben Musket Scholarship
and the Noel ab Owen Roberts memorial cup for a member of the Caernarfon Male
Voice Choir. Erin Swyn who receives lessons with Ann Atkinson in our Denbigh
branch won the Thomas William Jones memorial cup, a member of Caernarfon Male
Voice Choir.
The
concert was brought to close with a performance of select movements from
Mozart’s Requiem performed by the Chamber Choir who meet on Thursday nights at
Galeri.
During
the concert, it was announced that Canolfan Gerdd William Mathias will be
hosting the Wales
International Piano Festival between the 29th of April
and the 2nd of May 2016 under the direction of acknowledge pianist,
Iwan Llewelyn-Jones.
A
fundraising concert for the Piano Festival will be held on the 8th
of November and will include a brilliant programme of piano duets and trios
from the classical, jazz and popular repertoire.
by Gwydion Davies | 23 October, 2015 | Uncategorized
The
pioneering project Camau Cerdd (Steps in Music) is set to be introduced for the
very first time in Denbigh from the 28 September onwards.
The
project which has been running throughout Gwynedd for a number of years is a
partnership between the Canolfan Gerdd William Mathias Music Centre and one of
the Centre’s music tutors, Marie-Claire Howorth.
The
project tutor in Denbigh will be Charlotte Amy Green who has been working
alongside the project leader, Marie-Claire for several years and also tutors
sessions in Llanfairpwll and Penygroes.
Charlotte,
a music graduate who plays with Menai Bridge Brass Band and also gives brass
lessons in schools and tutors the Dyffryn Nantlle Junior Brass Band, is looking
forward to introducing the project to Denbigh:
‘After
the taster sessions back in July we are confident that Camau Cerdd will
flourish in Denbigh and that we will be able to give the children of the area a
heads start in regards to their musical education’.
The
Music Centre takes pride in the fact that the Steps in Music project is led by
an accomplished musician who has extensive experience of teaching music to
young children.
Classes
targeting two age groups will be held in Denbigh:
First
Steps in Music for children aged 15 months to 3 years old, which aims to give
children a general introduction to music, and also aims to inspire parents to
use music at home with their children with confidence.
Next
Steps in Music is for children aged between 4 and 7 years old. Here the aim is
to further develop the children’s understanding of music in a fun way through
the use of musical instruments, games, sol-fa and more.
‘By
the time children start their music education at school or start receiving
instrumental or singing lessons, Steps in Music will have already given them a
firm grasp of the world of music –understanding rhythm, being able to read
music, have a knowledge of different instruments and the sounds that they make,
and being able to listen and express themselves through music’ explains
Charlotte Green, Steps in Music tutor in Denbigh.
The project’s first series of 10 lessons, supported by Menter Iaith Sir Ddinbych and Denbighshire Arts Service will begin on the 28th of September 2015 in Denbigh. Contact Canolfan Gerdd William Mathias for more information and to book a place for your child.
by Gwydion Davies | 23 October, 2015 | Uncategorized
The
first meeting of Telynau Clwyd was held on Sunday the 4th of October
at HWB Denbigh building, welcoming harpists from across North Wales to the
session, following a taster session held earlier in the year to assess the
interest in a harp group in the Denbigh area.
Acclaimed
harpists Morwen Blythin and Dylan Cernyw lead the new harp choir organised by
Canolfan Gerdd William Mathias Music Centre who have been providing music
tuition in Denbigh since 2012 when it opened its branch in the town.
Establishing
a harp choir in Denbighshire has been one of Morwen’s ambitions for some time.
‘I
think that we as harp tutors in the Denbigh area have been hoping to see a harp
ensemble such as Telynau Clwyd for a number of years. I’m delighted to be a
part of this new and exciting group,’ explains Morwen who also tutors the harp
in Denbigh as one of Canolfan Gerdd Wiliam Mathias’ tutors.
The
Music Centre is very grateful to the harp rental company – Telynau Tandderwen
Harps who are supporting the first series of meetings for the group.
Hefina
Williams from Telynau Tandderwen Harps said:
‘It’s
good to hear that Canolfan Gerdd William Mathias is expanding its provision of
music tuition in the area with the Telynau Clwyd Harp Choir. Telynau Tandderwen
Harps take pride in offering our support to this new harp group and wish them
all the best with the project’.
12
harpists from North Wales attended the first session on the 4th of
October and succeeded in learning two new pieces. Dylan Cernyw was pleased to
see the progress made by the group during the session. Dylan said:
‘To
think that this was the group’s first meeting, they have made excellent
progress. I’m now looking forward to the group’s next meeting and to continue
with the learning’.
The group is aimed at high school children grade 3 standard
and above mainly. However the Music Centre wishes for anyone interested to
contact them to better understand the demand for similar projects in
Denbighshire.
by Gwydion Davies | 23 October, 2015 | Uncategorized
Erin
who also receives piano lessons at the Music Centre with Teleri-Siân, and
clarinet lessons in school with Dave Hopkins was surprised on the day of the
concert to learn that she had received the best result in the exams:
‘I
had no idea until they called my name for the prize that I had won the cup. The
Music Centre had only told me that I would be performing on the day only – it
was big a surprise to hear my name being called out!’
Ann
Atkinson, Erin’s singing tutor was delighted by the result. ‘Erin has worked
very hard during the year – it is a joy to teach her, and I’m very pleased that
her hard work has been rewarded. I’m now looking forward to going forward with
Erin to learn new repertoire and prepare for her grade 4 exam.’
The
young singer shared the stage with some of the Music Centre’s other talented
musicians and groups including the Centre’s Cello Ensemble, other soloists, trios
and quartets, a performance of pieces by two of the Music Centre’s young
composers, as well as selected pieces from the Mozart Requiem performed by the
Music Centre’s Chamber Choir.
The
Music Centre recently celebrated its 15th anniversary and it is only recently
in 2012 started to provide music tuition in Denbigh with the provision of
projects such as Camau Cerdd (Steps in Music) for young children, and a newly
formed harp group, Telynau Clwyd, and theory lessons being offered in Denbigh
for the very first time in October.
A
concert was held on Friday the 18th of September by Canolfan Gerdd
William Mathias Music Centre at Galeri Caernarfon to recognise the achievements
of the Music Centre’s students during the previous academic year.
Amongst
the students who performed and received awards was Erin Swyn Williams from
Llannefydd who has been receiving lessons with Ann Atkinson at the Denbigh
Branch of Canolfan Gerdd William Mathias Music Centre for several years.
Erin,
a pupil at Ysgol Glan Clwyd, was awarded the prestigious Thomas William Jones
memorial Cup which is presented annually to the Music Centre student who
achieves the highest mark in a grade 1-5 practical exam. Erin recently achieved
142 marks out of 150 in her grade 3 singing exam and therefore was a very
worthy winner of the cup which is presented by Caernarfon Male Voice Choir in
memory of a former choir member.
by Gwydion Davies | 5 August, 2015 | Uncategorized
The
Denbigh branch of Canolfan Gerdd William Mathias Music Centre hosted an open
day in July 2015. One of the activities held during the day was a harp group to
assess the interest in forming a group that would meet on a regular basis in
the area.
Prominent
harpists Morwen Blythin and Dylan Cernyw lead the group, and a good response
was received to the idea of forming a harp group that would meet regularly.
Morwen
and Dylan were delighted by the progress made by the group during the session
with the group succeeding to learn two new pieces and then giving an informal
concert to the parents at the end.
Morwen
Blythin said:
Learning
and then performing two new pieces is a great achievement especially
considering that this was the first time for the group to meet! Both Dylan and
I are delighted that Canolfan Gerdd William Mathias are starting the Telynau
Clwyd group on a regular basis.
Following
this success, the harp group will be meeting once a month in Denbigh.
Telynau
Clwyd are now inviting more members to join the group. Contact the Music Centre
to register your interest in joining.
Canolfan
Gerdd William Mathias provides music tuition of the highest standard in its
centre in Denbigh, as well as its main centre located in Caernarfon.
The
branch in Denbigh was established in 2012, and now offers music tuition with
experienced tutors, as well as our exciting project Camau Cerdd (Steps in
Music) that introduces music to children aged six months to seven years
old, and the Doniau Cudd (Hidden Talents) project which offers music
sessions for children with learning difficulties, as well as other projects in
the community.
The
aim of Canolfan Gerdd William Mathias Dinbych is to repeat the success at the
Canolfan in Caernarfon that now sees over 400 people receiving lessons each
week by over 45 experienced tutors.
The Canolfan welcomes any suggestions on the type of activities you would like to see at Denbigh as well as your enquiries by contacting us.
by Gwydion Davies | 17 July, 2015 | Uncategorized
A
successful music day was hosted by Canolfan Gerdd William Mathias Music Centre
on the 12 July at its branch at Theatr Twm o’r Nant, Denbigh.
Canolfan
Gerdd William Mathias has been providing music tuition of the highest quality
for people of all ages at its main Centre at Galeri Caernarfon for more than
ten years, and since 2012 has been offering music tuition at Its Denbigh branch
as well as other activities within the community.
A
harp workshop with Dylan Cernyw and Morwen Blythin marked a great start to the
day. Harpists from all ages came to the workshop and had the opportunity to
play together.
The
workshop was a great success, and the group succeeded in learning two new
pieces in a very short time, and then gave an informal performance at the end
of the workshop.
Morwen
Blythin was delighted with the progress made by the group:
Learning
and then performing two pieces from new is an amazing achievement considering
that this was the first meeting for the group! I am now hopeful that this
meeting has set the foundation for Canolfan Gerdd William Mathias to form a
harp choir for the future that will meet on a regular basis in the area.
The
day also gave the music centre the opportunity to introduce one of its other
innovative projects in the area for the first time, which is the ‘Camau Cerdd’
(Steps in Music) project that is run in partnership with Marie-Claire Howorth.
The
Camau Cerdd (Steps in Music) project specialises in providing music education
for children between 6 months and 7 years old.
Three
age-group classes were held during the day by the project’s tutors,
Marie-Claire Howorth and Charlotte Green who were delighted to see all three of
the groups full with a total of 32 children taking part.
Marie-Claire
said:
After
a number of years now of providing the Camau Cerdd project throughout Gwynedd
County, it’s clear to us that there is a demand for a music project for young
children in the Denbigh area, and we look forward to offering Camau Cerdd in
the Denbigh area in the near future with the music centre.
Free
taster lessons were also offered by the music centre’s experienced tutors, with
many children and adults taking up the opportunity to try a musical instrument
for the first time.
The
day came to an end with the ‘Llwyfan Cerdd’ student concert, and the music
centre welcomed the Chair of the Council and the consort Gwyneth Kensler and
Gaynor Morgan Rees to the concert as well as the Theatr Twm o’r Nant Committee
to enjoy the performances from the students of all ages and musical
abilities.
Canolfan
Gerdd William Mathias looks forward to organising music sessions in homes
providing care for people with dementia in Denbighshire in the near future in
addition to continuing to develop it’s Doniau Cudd (Hidden Talents) project for
children and adults with learning disabilities in the County.
by Gwydion Davies | 8 July, 2015 | Uncategorized
Canolfan
Gerdd William Mathias Music Centre in Denbigh will open its doors to everyone
for a day of music activities on the 12th of July 2015. The day will
include a harp workshop with Dylan Cernyw and Morwen Blythin, Camau Cerdd
(Steps in Music) project for children from 6 months to 7 years old, Llwyfan
Cerdd Concert by the music centre’s students and free taster lessons with
experienced tutors.
The
Denbigh branch of Canolfan Gerdd William Mathias started to give music tuition
in the town in 2012 and has since grown to provide lessons on a variety of
instruments and voice with experienced tutors including Ann Atkinson, Teleri
Siân, Glian Llwyd, Alfred Barker, and Morwen Blythin. Community projects
including the Hidden Talents programme for adults who have learning
disabilities and music sessions in nursing homes have also been developed in
collaboration with Denbighshire Arts Services.
The
day will begin with a harp workshop by Dylan Cernyw and Morwen Blythin. This
will be open to harpists of all ages and abilities, and will end with a short
informal performance at 12.
Camau
Cerdd is a project that Canolfan Gerdd William Mathias is already offering at
its Centre in Caernarfon. The project leader, Marie-Claire Howorth is looking
forward to introducing the project in Denbigh for the very first time. She
said:
‘Camau
Cerdd is a project which has several years of proven success behind it
throughout Gwynedd. It is with great enthusiasm that I am now looking forward
to introducing Camau Cerdd to Denbigh. It’s an exciting and important project
that I believe has the potential to empower the body and brain, develop
literacy, numeracy, coordination, memory and social skills. The project builds
an understanding of culture and identity too as the classes are bilingual and
encourage early learning of folk songs. Young children and their families will
have the opportunity to discover the wonders of the world of music using
instruments, games, songs and more’.
Sessions
targeting 6-24month olds, 2&3 year olds and 4-7 year olds will be held
during the afternoon. There will be a special price of £2 per child to
celebrate starting this exciting project in Denbigh.
The
Canolfan will also offer a range of free taster lessons with experienced
tutors. They will be available on the harp, piano, violin, and voice. Contact
the Canolfan to book your free taster lesson.
To end this special day a Llwyfan Cerdd Concert will be held by the Canolfan’s students. These concerts provide an excellent opportunity for students to gain confidence by performing in an informal, friendly atmosphere. Donations will be gratefully received at the end of the concert.Contact Canolfan Gerdd William Mathias to book your free taster lesson, or to register and receive more information about the Camau Cerdd (Steps in Music) project or the Harp Workshop with Dylan Cernyw and Morwen Blythin.
by Gwydion Davies | 2 July, 2015 | Uncategorized
University.
Elin has been working with us to organise a series of concerts by former
students. Here is a post from Elin discussing her work with the Canolfan:
As
a former student of the William Mathias Music Centre and MMus student at Bangor
University, I am very fortunate to have gained an ATM scholarship through which
I am working for the Canolfan over the summer period. The ATM (European Social
Fund) is a scholarship for masters students, supporting their studies and
enabling them to work for a local company.
One
of the tasks that I have been assigned to is organising a series of concerts
over the summer, to include various former students of the William Mathias
Music Centre. Many of these musicians are studying at a music college or have
recently graduated and are embarking on a professional career. They are
grateful for the opportunity to perform in their local area and everyone at the
Canolfan is looking forward to seeing some of them return to North Wales!
Elin
Roberts
These
are the details of the concerts to come:
Meinir
Wyn Roberts (soprano) and Steven Evans (piano)
Saturday
afternoon, July 18, 3pm
Feed
My Lambs Hall, Caernarfon
Gwyn
Owen (trumpet) and Steven Evans (piano)
Thursday
evening, August 13, 7pm
Powis
Hall, Bangor University
More
dates to follow soon!
by Gwydion Davies | 30 June, 2015 | Uncategorized
On Friday the 19th and Saturday the 20th of June Camau
Cerdd/Steps in Music visited the Showground in Mona for the Anglesey Family
Festival.
They had three sessions each day and had a variety of
children coming to meet Mr. Cerdd and learn music.
On the Friday schools from all over Anglesey were at the
festival and those who frequented the Steps in Music sessions with Charlotte and
Gethin learnt how to play different rhythms in time on percussive instruments
as well as learning to sing the sol-fa with the corresponding hand gestures.
On the Saturday it was a turn for younger children to have a
music session with their parents and Marie-Claire and Gethin. They got to meet
Mr. Cerdd and sing songs and play instruments whilst hearing the story ‘A
Rumble in the Jungle’ (by Andreae and Wojtowycz).
We all had a wonderful time!
by Gwydion Davies | 3 June, 2015 | Uncategorized
Congratulations to the following students who receive their tuition
at CGWM on their success in the National Urdd Eisteddfod last week :
Strings Solo Year 7-9 : Gwydion Rhys 3rd
Tutor : Nicki Pearce
Girls’ Solo Year 7-9 : Llio Meirion Rogers 2nd
Tutor : Ann Atkinson
Piano Solo Yr. 10 – under 19 : Math Roberts 2nd
Tutor : Iwan Llewelyn-Jones
Woodwind Solo Yr.10 – under 19 : Megan Hunter 2nd
Tutor : Rhiannon Mathias
Song from a Musical for singers aged 19-25 : Gwen Elin 3rd
Tutor : Mary Lloyd-Davies
Congratulations also to Mabon Llyr who is a member of CGWM’s chamber
duo for winning 3rd prize in the Strings Solo for Year 10- under 19
years.
We look forward to seeing Gwen Elin and one of our ex-students
Meinir Wyn Roberts (now studying at the Royal Academy of Music, London) taking
part in the Bryn Terfel Scholarship competition in the Autumn. Good luck to you
both and well done for being selected.
We were thrilled to hear about Math Roberts’ success in the
Composer’s Medal competition. 15 year old Math’s composition for the harp was
awarded second place in the competition which was open to composers under the
age of 25 – quite an achievement. Math studies the harp with Elinor Bennett at
CGWM and started composing the piece during the composition workshops arranged
by CGWM as part of the 2014 Wales International Harp Festival.
Congratulations also to all the students who were successful
in other competitions including recitation, ensembles and choirs during the
week
by Gwydion Davies | 3 June, 2015 | Uncategorized
Guitars@Galeri Festival Direcotr, Neil Browning is overjoyed
after a successful guitar event brings guitarist from all over Wales to
Caernarfon to learn more about the guitar and to attend a concert by well-known
guitarist Gary Ryan.
The event was held on the 22-24 of May 2015, and began with an
open mic event where all the course participants were invited to perform in the
bar.
The weekend continued with a series of tutorials and workshops
with guest tutors including Stuart Ryan, Neil Browning, Andy Maceknzie, Colin
Tommis, and Dave King. We were delighted to be able to offer such a variety of
guitar styles during the event.
Above is a picture of Andy Mackenzie’s Gypsy Jazz Rhythm workshop
where he introduced the basic ‘la pompe’ rhythm playing and chord shapes.
The Festival also welcomed renowned guitarist Gary Ryan to
give a masterclass and perform in a concert on the Saturday night. A variety of
music was performed by Gary including music from Pratorius, Dowland and Bach
and also his own compositions that demonstrated innovative and virtuosic
techniques on the guitar.
by Gwydion Davies | 12 May, 2015 | Uncategorized
Guitars@Galeri – 22-24 May 2015
Internationally renowned guitar soloist Gary Ryan is joining a host of experienced guitarists to teach and perform at this month’s Guitars@Galeri event in Caernarfon. Canolfan Gerdd William Mathias once again hosts a music teaching event at Galeri, the arts and performance space in the heart of this historic town.
Guitars@Galeri is a weekend of tutorials, performances
and workshops from a team of top tutors aimed particularly at acoustic,
electric and bass guitarists. Learners of all ages and abilities will be
able to take part in mix’n’match mini-workshop series featuring a variety
of topics and musical genres. Tuition elements suitable for adults and young
guitarists aged 15+ and is not suitable for complete beginners.
The festival kicks off with an open mic event on the Friday evening where
all performers and styles will be made welcome.
Saturday’s activities will begin with a short informal performance from the
four main course tutors, and will be brought to a close by the main festival
concert featuring Gary Ryan.
Along with his own compositions, Gary will play music by
Praetorius, Dowland, Bach, Dyens and Brouwer, arrangements of Celtic Folk Music
by David Russell. The concert commences with a short performance by Neil
Browning’s ‘Fragile Egosystem’, featuring echo-guitar, followed by a short
break.
There will also be opportunities for jam sessions during the
weekend!
There’s still time to take part in the event – contact
Canolfan Gerdd William Mathias for details. Contact the Galeri Box Office for
tickets for the evening performance.
