October treats of titles and Terfel for Lewis Merthyr

The Lewis Merthyr Band has enjoyed a fine October — winning a Welsh League title in Burry Port and teaming up with the great Bryn Terfel for a spot of television work.

The Lewis Merthyr Band joined forces with the great Welsh baritone singer Bryn Terfel for the broadcast.

Wednesday, 25 October 2017

October has proven to be a fine month for the Rhondda valley based Lewis Merthyr Band.

Not only did they win the First Section title at the recent West Wales Brass Band Association contest in Burry Port, but they also enjoyed the opportunity to perform with the world renowned baritone singer Sir Bryn Terfel for a forthcoming television programme.

Contest success

The contest success came with a fine performance of James Curnow's 'Brass Metamorphosis' which saw them take the title as well as additional prizes for 'Best Soloist' for flugel player Zoe Alexander and the 'Conductor's Award' to Musical Director Craig Roberts.

Meanwhile, the filmed performance with the legendary international Welsh opera star Sir Bryn Terfel took place at the Rhondda Heritage Park, site of the former Lewis Merthyr Colliery.

National broadcast

Together they recorded a special setting by the Welsh composer Arwel Hughes of the traditional Welsh hymn 'Cwm Rhondda', the arrangement especially transcribed by Christopher Painter, with a special 'Amen' ending written by the composer's son, the renowned Welsh conductor Owain Arwel Hughes CBE.

The resultant film will feature in the final episode of Sir Bryn's new television series 'Taith Bryn Terfel — Gwlad Y Gan' which will be broadcast nationwide in Wales on S4C on or around Christmas Day.

It's been a fantastic few weeks for the band and the ongoing successes are a testament to the ongoing hard work of all the band membersBand Manager, Paul Williams

Fantastic few weeks

Speaking of the successes, Band Manager Paul Williams told 4BR: "It's been a fantastic few weeks for the band and the ongoing successes are a testament to the ongoing hard work of all the band members.

We now look forward to another busy month ahead in November, which will see the band undertake a recording session for Rondo Media's Band Cymru competition, as well as supporting three Remembrance Day.

He added: "We will then look forward to the final competition of the 2017 Welsh League series at Merthyr Tydfil on Saturday November 25th".

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