Heritage (1921-2021)

Few places in the Land of Song can lay greater claim to the title “Valley of Song” than the Cynon Valley, home of Cwmbach Male Choir. The choir was formed in the village of Cwmbach, on the outskirts of Aberdare (with its own claim to be “The Queen of the Valleys”), and it was here, on 10th June 1921, that the musical story, and HERITAGE of this organisation was born. Since then, and over the last 100 years, the Choir has contributed to, and enhanced, the choral reputation of the locality, and has a proud place in the musical history of Wales.

Cwmbach United Male Choir (so named on its formation in 1921 by the joining of five male voice parties in the village) quickly built up an enviable competition reputation, winning all the major eisteddfodau in Wales, including an unequalled three wins in consecutive years at the South Wales Miners’ Eisteddfod during the 1960’s. The Choir’s concert history, is equally impressive, ranging from principal concert halls across the UK, and in churches, chapels and other venues, sharing the stage with the likes of Sir Geraint Evans, Owain Arwel Hughes, Stuart Burrows, Harry Secombe and, on a memorable occasion, with Paul Robeson. It has performed across the whole of Europe and in Canada, USA and South Africa, and has made many sound recordings, radio and television appearances over the last 60 years. In celebrating its centenary, the Cwmbach Male Choir seeks to secure a sustainable future for the choristers and audiences of tomorrow and by safeguarding and building upon the unique HERITAGE, it will preserve its worth for generations to come. Our HERITAGE is the valuable inheritance of history, tradition, achievement and worthwhile practices of the past. The next 100 years presents a new window of opportunity!!!

Tracks -

1. Comrades in Arms

2. Aus Der Traube

3. Si Hei Lwli 'Mabi

4. Conspirator's Chorus (Rigletto)

5. Croen y Ddafad Felen

6. Diolch i'r Ior

7. O Na Byddai'n Haf o Hyd

8. Bryn Myrddin ('Mawr oedd Crist yn Nhragwyddoldeb)

9. Softly as I Leave You

10. Speed your Journey (Nabucco)

11. Myfanwy

12. Laudamus (Bryn Calfaria)

13. Bui Doi (Miss Saigon)

14. I'se Weary of Waiting

15. Gwahoddiad

16. Kalinka

17. Anthem

18. Benedictus

19. Hallelujah

20. Tell My Father (The Civil War)

21. Sarah (Mi glywaf dyner Lais)