The National Eisteddfod of Wales is currently taking place in Denbigh in the Vale of Clwyd, where crowds have come to enjoy the sights and sounds of the premier cultural event of the Welsh year.

The brass band competitions, open to competitors throughout Wales took place on the weekend, run under the auspices of the Welsh Brass Band Association (Cymdeithas Bandiau Pres Cymru).

Television

The open adjudication entertainment programme format was once again televised live on the Welsh language channel S4C, with Deiniolen under the direction of Lois Eifion, who was conducting the band for the first time in competition, winning the top prize in the joint Championship/First Section.

Balanced set

Their carefully balanced set opened with ‘Henffych y Ddraig’ arranged by Gwyn Evans, followed by the Karl Jenkins ‘Lament’ from his 'Stabat Mater' played by baritone soloist Urien Sion Huws.

Duke Ellington’s ‘Caravan’ was balanced by Peter Graham’s ‘Lady Stewart’s Air’ with the band finishing off with ‘Dundonnell’ from ‘Hymn of the Highlands’ by Philip Sparke.

Second time

It is understood that it is only the second time the band has won the top section title, with their last success coming back in 1955 in Pwhelli.

It enabled the nationally graded First Section band to deny City of Cardiff (Melingriffith) a hat trick of ‘National’ victories, despite Gareth Ritter leading the defending champion in a high impact programme.

The emerging Llanrug under the baton of Paul Hughes took third place from adjudicators Paul Holland, Nigel Seaman and Tom Davoren.

Tight battle

In a tightly fought Second Section event on Saturday, there were celebrations in order for City of Cardiff and Gareth Ritter as their M2 Band took the title ahead of West Wales challengers Crwbin and RAF St Athan.

RAF St Athan under Alan Bourne was the sole entrant in the Third Section, whilst an encouraging field of seven bands took part in the Fourth Section, where Ebbw Valley made the long trip home to South Wales celebrating victory ahead of a strong challenge from North Wales rivals Royal Oakeley and Menai Bridge.

It is understood that it is only the second time the band has won the top section title, with their last success coming back in 1955 in Pwhelli4BR

Full results:

Championship/First Section:
Adjudicators for all sections: Nigel Seaman, Paul Holland, Tom Davoren

1. Deiniolen Silver (Lois Efion)
2. City of Cardiff (Mellingriffith 1) (Gareth Ritter)
3. Llanrug (Paul Hughes)

Second Section:
1. City of Cardiff (Mellingiffith 2) (Gareth Ritter)
2. Crwbin (Colin Hogg)
3. RAF St Athan (Alan Bourne)

Third Section:
1. RAF St Athan (Alan Bourne)

Fourth Section:
1. Ebbw Valley (Gareth Ritter)
2. Oakeley Silver (John Jones)
3. Menai Bridge (Chris Williams)
4. Rhyl Silver (Keith Jones)
5. Holywell (Aled Williams)
6. Ystradgynlais Public (Alex Parker)
7. Deeside Silver (John Pemberton)

With thanks to Pedr Roberts