A work by composer Tom Davoren inspired by a tale found in the historic 'Mabinogion' book of Welsh folklore, is to be given a St David's Day premiere in the heart of the nation by the Band of the Welsh Guards under the direction of Major David Barringer.

'Riding to Olwen' was originally written in 2016 for the University of Nevada Las Vegas Wind Orchestra and their music director Prof. Thomas Leslie, and is inspired by the fast paced tale of love and adventure of Olwen, the beautiful daughter of the giant Ysbaddaden Pencawr.

Infatuation

A spell of infatuation is cast on Prince Cullwch son of Cilydd, who is then charged by Olwen'a father with completing a series of impossible tasks to win her hand — with the 4-minute work imagining Cullwch and his knights riding on horseback to complete their first quest — and full of rampant adrenaline, testosterone and anticipation!

Tom, who has recently been working closely with the Band of the Welsh Guards, told 4BR that the piece is inspired from amazing source material.

"The Mabinogion is an incredible book, packed with stories of romance, tragedy, fantasy and humour — all dating back to 14th century. I hope 'Riding to Olwen' brings a taste of what can be found in it — a great tale that forms the roots of many others found all over the world.

It's be a real honour working with the Band of the Welsh Guards and I thinks it's fitting that the piece will be given its Welsh and UK premiere in the town of Brecon — a place that has its fair share of mythical stories of its own."

Passion

In response WO2 David Hatton told 4BR: "We are sure 'Riding to Olwen' will provide a great focal point of Welsh passion on the night.

It's been absolutely fantastic to work with Tom and we're really looking forward to performing more of his works on our regular returns to Wales."

Time and place

The concert will take place on Friday 1st March at Theatr Brycheiniog (7.45pm) and will also feature a programme of stage and screen music by the likes of Leonard Bernstein as well as Sir Karl Jenkins.

Also joining them will the Welsh award-winning West End musical theatre star, Lucie Jones, who has recently starred in 'Les Miserables', 'We Will Rock You' and 'Legally Blonde. Her television credits also include' X Factor' and the 'Eurovision Song Contest'.

We are sure 'Riding to Olwen' will provide a great focal point of Welsh passion on the nightThe Band of the Welsh Guards

Tickets:

Tickets available from the theatre box office: https://www.ents24.com/brecon-events/theatr-brycheiniog

More information go to: www.brycheiniog.co.uk
Tel: 01874 611622