Celebrating Ceredigion's musical talents
Aberystwyth Arts Centre was packed at the end of December as an enthusiastic audience gathered to enjoy a concert by Ceredigion’s Music and Drama Service, held in partnership with the Ardal Aberystwyth Rotary Club.
The evening celebrated Welsh music and top-quality local talent, and it was an unforgettable experience for everyone present. The first half was a feast of lively performances by the Service’s brass band, the Junior Orchestra and the Senior Orchestra, as well as the Harp Duet, before the second half featured a performance of “Atgof o’r Sêr” led by the show’s composer, Robat Arwyn.
Providing opportunities for local young people to perform and collaborate with professional performers is one of the main aims of the Music Service, and this evening was a great example of that. Sharing the stage with nationally renowned artists is a rare, inspiring and educational experience – one that can stay in the memory for many years and could be an important step in the career journey of our young people.
There was an emotional and powerful performance of “Atgof o’r Sêr”, featuring highly respected soloists Gwawr Edwards and John Ieuan Jones, and the Ceredigion Music Service Choir, along with a host of choirs from across the county, including Sgarmes, Côr ABC, Côr Aberteifi and Merched Soar, creating a truly memorable evening.
Following the performance, Robat Arwyn said: “It was a privilege to lead so much musical talent on stage, and I enjoyed every moment. I think I’m the luckiest composer in the world.”
Megan from Ysgol Penweddig said: “It was an amazing experience to be part of such a special choir, and definitely something we as young people will remember forever.”
Steffan, also from Ysgol Penweddig, added: “It’s great that the Music Service gives us these special opportunities, and I’d like to thank all the tutors for these valuable experiences.”
For Catrin M S Davies, Ceredigion’s Culture portfolio holder, “it was an excellent evening and an opportunity for a wide audience to experience the fruits of the Music Service’s work. The staff and tutors of the Service are completely dedicated to giving Ceredigion’s youth the widest range of possible opportunities in the musical world, and we are all very grateful to each and every one of them for their tireless work. It was lovely to be there to witness the talents of the county’s young people and see them enjoy performing alongside older performers from the county and international stars Gwawr Edwards and John Ieuan Jones.”
The concert also highlighted the importance of performing and promoting Welsh works, safeguarding and celebrating our rich musical traditions. By bringing different generations together on the same stage, the evening not only celebrated Christmas but also strengthened Ceredigion’s cultural identity.
16/01/2026