The Cory Band and their MD Dr Robert Childs have been awarded The John Edwards Memorial Award by the Welsh Music Guild.

Annual Award

The prize is awarded annually to an individual, organisation or institution for an outstanding contribution to Welsh music, and can only be won.

Previous recipients include composer Alun Hoddinott and world famous singers Stuart Burrows and Bryn Terfel.

Shared honour

On this occassion it was felt that the award should be in recognition of both the MD, Dr Robert Childs and the band.

Welsh Music Guild Secretary, Christopher Painter told 4BR: "The Guild had unanimously voted that the award be a double one, going to both Bob Childs and the Cory Band for their terrific work in 2008."

The Guild had unanimously voted that the award be a double one, going to both Bob Childs and the Cory Band for their terrific work in 2008Welsh Music Guild

Citation

The award citation made mention of the contest, concert and recording achievements, world rankings, the duo's educational work both within and outside the Royal Welsh College of Music and Drama and their commitment in promoting Welsh composers.

Cory Chairman Austin Davies told 4BR: "This is a fantastic honour and is especially welcomed in our 125th Anniversary Year. I’m so pleased that The Welsh Music Guild has recognized the hard work that we do, especially the educational work that can so often be overlooked."

Thrilled

The delighted MD added: "I’m thrilled — this is just the boost we needed before competing at the European Championships. Being recognized by The Welsh Music Guild will spur us on even more to bring the title back home to Wales.

"The past recipients of the award speak volumes. I believe we are the first brass band to receive the award and I hope we can continue impressing prestigious organisations with our music making."

The John Edwards Memorial Award will be presented to Cory and Bob Childs at the Welsh Music Guild’s Annual Dinner later this year.