An innovative musical link is to be made between Wales and Norway this April, when bands from the village of Llanrug in Gwynedd, and Tysnes from the municipality Hordaland, will forge a Celtic/Nordic partnership.

The idea will initiate a long term connection between the two bands that will see regular collaboration on joint initiatives and contact, including tours to each other's countries as well as broadening educational and musical links with individual players.

Driving force

Llanrug recently qualified for the Cheltenham First Section National Finals under MD Paul Hughes, and the Fairey Band principal cornet player has been one of the driving forces behind the initiative.

"I've enjoyed working and performing in Norway over many years and the investment in brass band music making is something to be envied,"he said. "It is something I believe Llanrug can benefit greatly from; broadening horizons and musical experiences for everyone involved."

Close links

Paul has also worked with Tynes Band, based near the city of Bergen, over the past five years on his regular trips to the country, and has built up a close musical relationship with their conductor Yngve Nikolaisen.

"Tynes Musikklag are currently in the Second Division of Norwegian banding, and benefit greatly from having Yngve as their MD,"he said. "He runs a wonderful culture school in the Tynes area which has a national reputation for its excellence."

The link is further strengthened by former Llanrug, Beaumaris and Fairey cornet player Nick Hughes, Paul's nephew, who is a member of the Tysnes Musikklag and who works for the school.

The first step is to welcome the band to north Wales in April where we will undertake a joint concert together and enjoy an official twining ceremony at Caernarfon Castle where Tysnes have been given the honour of giving a concertPaul Hughes

Caernafon Castle

Paul concluded: "There is so much both bands can offer to what we hope will be a lasting friendship and working relationship.

The first step is to welcome the band to north Wales in April where we will undertake a joint concert together and enjoy an official twining ceremony at Caernarfon Castle where Tysnes have been given the honour of giving a concert."