Robert Lloyd - a Sir Gar Blog of random news . . . and some Clecs!

There's good news for young performers in South West Wales with the announcement of new bursaries to help young talented singers and instrumentalists. The Trustees of the Loud Applause Rising Stars (LARS) have announced that the charity intends to offer a number of bursaries to individual members of the mentoring scheme. Loud Applause Rising Stars chairman Cerith Owens said: "Since LARS was set up as a charity just over a year ago we have been amazed at the goodwill and praise we have received from both the Friends of Loud Applause Rising Stars and the wider community, who have enjoyed the quality performances delivered consistently by our talented young performers. "This success has led to our ability to set aside surplus income generated this past year to enable us to offer financial assistance to singers and instrumentalists. "It is our intention to continue to offer bursaries annually for youngsters who require (and are deserving of) additional support and ar...

St David’s Celebration Concert at Ffwrnes Theatre, Llanelli, featuring soprano Elin Manahan Thomas, tenor Osian Wyn Bowen, massed male choir from Côr Meibion Mynydd Mawr, Côr Meibion Dyffryn Aman, Côr Meibion Dyffryn Tywi, Côr Meibion Porth Tywyn, conducted by Dr Alwyn Humphreys MBE. This was an evening celebrating the very best of Welsh singing - and a real ‘coming of age’ for West Wales tenor Osian Wyn Bowen. The 20-year-old from Burry Port has been quietly refining his craft for a number of years - and his performance before a packed house at Ffwrnes marked him out as a soloist to watch and follow for years to come. Confident, assured and controlled (with plenty of cheeky stagecraft thrown in for good measure), Osian showed that his time as a student at the Royal Welsh College of Music and Drama has paid dividends. A duet with top-of-the-bill soprano Elin Manahan Thomas will live long in the memory. The couple’s performance of the Joseph Parry classic ‘Hywel a Blodwen’ (comp...

A Night With the Stars gala concert, featuring Shân Cothi , Charlie Lovell-Jones (violin) and The Loud Applause Rising Stars, at Ffwrnes Theatre, Llanelli. Simply dazzling . . . No, we’re not talking Shân Cothi’s frocks here (although they were eye-catching, as always!). On a night of stirring singing, the show-stealing performance of the night was provided by an individual musician. Cardiff-based 17-year-old Charlie Lovell-Jones has a growing reputation as one of the UK’s finest young musical talents. And he blew the packed house away at Ffwrnes Theatre with a virtuoso violin performance. It was stunning stuff. At times you could swear a small chamber orchestra was playing, such was his dexterity during Rondo Capriccioso by Camille Sain-Saens. It took some time for some members of the audience to re-set their dropped jaws, but the violinist did reward everyone with a special addition to his set – a wonderfully emotional performance of the famous Suo Gan lullaby. He foll...

Two members of the Loud Applause Productions 'Rising Stars' team are on their way to The Netherlands to sing at a prestigious event. Thomas Bytheway (above) and Callum Rhys Williams (top) will join Loud Applause Ambassador Mark Llewellyn Evans at special events in the famous town of s'Hertogenbosch. The town has great links with Wales from World War Two and always includes Welsh artistes in concerts designed to mark the wartime liberation of the town. On the 22nd October 1944, the 53rd Welsh Division returned southwards from Nijmegen to capture the town of s'Hertogenbosch. For the next five days it was involved in some brutal fighting advancing to and then capturing the town. The 53rd Division finally liberated s'Hertogenbosch on the 27th October. Loud Applause Rising Stars (LARS) were honoured to receive an invite to perform in the town on the 26th and 27th October. They will join events under the baton of the conductor of the s'Hertogenbosch m...

Friends of Loud Applause Rising Stars launch night at Llanelly House There must have been many nights like this is in the rich Georgian history of Llanelly House. But few would have featured such a dazzling array of young talent. Cerith Owens already has a fine reputation in Llanelli and the rest of South Wales for promoting major concerts and charitable events through his Loud Applause Productions team. Now, Mr Owens has branched out by launching the Loud Applause Rising Stars charity and the Friends of Loud Applause Rising Stars. The Rising Stars brand aims to mentor and encourage young talent in South Wales and provide performance opportunities for singers and musicians. “It’s all about spotting young talent and then encouraging youngsters to fulfil their potential,” said Mr Owens. His launch night for the Friends of Loud Applause Rising Stars saw established young singers and new faces take the ‘stage’ at Llanelly House. Keely Morgan and Jordan Williams are two perform...

The latest 'On Song' column (about the choral and concert scene in and around Llanelli) from the Llanelli Star - West Wales concert fans will have a double treat to celebrate St David’s Day this year. Llanelli concert promoter Cerith Owens and Loud Applause Productions are planning two concerts to celebrate our Patron Saint’s Day. The first will be on February 27– 7.00pm, Ffwrnes Theatre, Llanelli. The second will be on March 5 - 7.00pm, Lyric Theatre, Carmarthen. “We’ve managed to create two great ‘bookend’ events around St David’s Day celebrations,” said Mr Owens. “It means that this year we give people the chance to see two great West Wales events celebrating St David’s Day! The Llanelli gala concert on February 27 will feature Côr Meibion Llanelli Male Choir and Dunvant Male Choir with Côr Ysgol Iau Llangennech, soprano Eirlys Myfanwy Davies, plus the young up and coming singer Jordan Williams. The evening will be hosted by the ever popular BBC TV and radio personality Garr...

The latest 'On Song' column (about the choral and concert scene in and around Llanelli) from the Llanelli Star -  Llanelli concert promoter and impresario Cerith Owens is looking forward to a busy 2016. Mr Owens has worked tirelessly during 2015 to develop his stable of ‘Rising Stars’ at Loud Applause Productions. And he has now added a new tier of ‘Aspiring Loud Applause Rising Stars’ to his team. Mr Owens explained: “I think it is crucially important to give youngsters opportunities to perform on concert platforms. “We start by nurturing them gently with small-scale appearances at intimate events, gradually building their confidence for full-blown concert appearances. “I have been heavily involved in concert promotion in Llanelli for a number of years, but I could see the need to provide different platforms to help develop young talent in the area. “We’ve got so many talented youngsters in the area and they all need careful tuition and mentoring to fulfil their potential. “...

It was a night to remember – and a night for Remembrance. ‘A Night With The Stars’ at Ffwrnes Theatre, Llanelli, was an occasion for showcasing up-and-coming talent – the stars of the future - in Llanelli. And, with a clever change of mood and gear, it also served as on occasion for Remembrance, with an emotional Tribute To the Fallen in the second half of the programme. The event was designed to provide a platform for members of the Loud Applause Rising Stars team to show off their talents. With the sterling support of the Morriston Orpheus Choir, they did just that. Samuel Morris, Jordan Williams, Daniella Difede and Keely Morgan now seem like fully-established and rounded performers in their own right thanks to the nurturing of the Rising Stars programme. They practically have their own fan clubs – and they didn’t disappoint on a night when there was stiff competition for best performer of the night. Sophie Maliphant and Callum Howells (runaway winner of the ‘suit of the night’ ba...

Llanelli concert promoter Cerith Owens is hard at work organising the Royal British Legion Charity Gala Concert, which takes place on Saturday, October 17 at the Lyric Theatre, Carmarthen (7pm start, doors open 6.30pm). The concert, organised by Loud Applause Productions, will support the Royal British Legion Poppy Appeal in South West Wales. It is being billed as, ‘A thrilling and melancholy evening with stirring and evocative music which as always will leave a lasting impression’. This year’s concert not only raises funds for the Poppy Appeal but also marks the 70th Anniversary of the end of the World War Two, remembering the sacrifices of men and women who have served our country so courageously. Pendyrus Male Choir and soprano Gwawr Edwards will be headlining this year’s Gala with a special guest appearance by ‘Carmarthen Local Hero’ Mark Llewellyn Evans. Appearing once again by audience demand will be The 215 City of Swansea Squadron Royal Air Force Cadets Corps of Drums with ...

A Night with the Stars A Loud Applause Production Saturday November 7th 7.00pm Ffwrnes, Llanelli Tickets from £16.00 Loud Applause Productions Annual Showcase Gala Concert promises once again to be a wonderful evening of entertainment. Featuring talented up and coming singers and instrumentalists from South West Wales ‘the Loud Applause Rising Stars’ along with seasoned and professional performers. The ‘Rising Stars’ are now becoming familar names and include vocalists Samuel Morris, Jordan Williams, Daniella Difede, Keely Morgan, Sophie Maliphant, Angharad Elise Thomas and Nia Rees accompanied by Andrew J. Pike and Rhiannon Williams Hale. A new feature to the Rising Stars are instrumentalists who will be represented by Cai Charles (guitar), Ffion Elin Williams (harp) and Rhodri Thomas (trombone). Appearing with the Rising Stars will be the highly talented jazz singer from Birmingham Anthony Marsden and, back by popular demand, the world famous Morriston Orpheus C...

The latest 'On Song' column (about the choral scene in and around Llanelli) from the Llanelli Star - Llanelli concert promoter Cerith Owens has a musical treat in store later this year when he stages the Loud Applause Annual Concert – ‘Night With the Stars’ - at Ffwrnes Theatre, Llanelli, on November 7. The concert will feature the dazzling trio of violinists The Singhs and the Morriston Orpheus Choir. The Orpheus is one of the best known choirs in Wales. The choir was formed on April 23, 1935, by Ivor E. Sims and in its early days concentrated primarily on competitions and local concerts. In 1937, the Choir achieved its first success at the Royal National Eisteddfod in Machynlleth, going on to win at the National on six further occasions. The choir does not presently sing in competitions, preferring to concentrate on concert performances. Over the years, successive Musical Directors have developed and broadened the repertoire. Variety is now the hallmark of the Choir's per...

Summer Soiree staged by Loud Applause Productions at Stradey Castle, featuring guests Parti Llwchwr ladies choir and Loud Applause Rising Stars Stephen Davies, Johnny Mansel Lewis, Cai Charles, Nia Rees and Ffion Elin Williams. Designed as a showcase for the musical stars of the future in Llanelli and billed as a ‘summer soiree’, this was an evening with a touch of class. As an intimate and dramatic venue, a packed Great Hall at Stradey Castle takes some beating. Add into the mix one of the finest ladies choirs in Wales, in the shape of Parti Llwchwr, and you have an event which doubled as a musical treat and one of the social events of the year in the Llanelli calendar. Who needs Glyndbourne when you can enjoy canapés, wine and refreshments on the terrace lawn of Stradey Castle? The sense of ‘occasion’ was provided from the outset as guests at this Loud Applause Rising Stars event were greeted by a glorious solo performance from harpist Ffion Elin Williams. At just 16, Ffion display...

The Swansea Bach Choir, The Singhs violin trio and pianist Guillaume Mathias. Loud Applause productions Midsummer Music concert held at St Elli Parish Church, Llanelli. As you’d expect from a concert in the wonderful surroundings of St Elli Parish Church, this was a ‘heavenly’ occasion. It was music to stir the soul; choral singing at its very best, blended with virtuoso musicianship. The packed audience at Llanelli’s Parish Church can consider themselves well blessed in being allowed to sit in on such a musical masterclass. The Swansea Bach Choir has made its mark down the years in performing Baroque classics, the major works of Bach and, basically, most of the great choral works of the last five centuries. There was no Bach on the programme, but no-one was complaining as conductor Greg Hallam carefully chose a repertoire designed to showcase the very best of the choir. Britten’s Hymn to St Cecilia set the standard for the evening and was followed by Walton’s A Litany and two works ...

Keely Morgan  Cai Charles Nia Rees Samuel Morris Sophie Maliphant Llanelli concert promoter Cerith Owens is seeing his mission to foster South Wales talent go from strength to strength, The talented up-and-coming performers of the Loud Applause Rising Stars stable run by Mr Owens have been inundated with requests for concert and event appearances. "Things are especially busy for our young singers and musical stars," said Mr Owens. "For example, Rising Star singer Keely Morgan has performed twice with 'Phantom' and 'Les Mis' star Peter Karrie as part of his small halls tour around Wales. "Keely was very well received and extended her fame to Pem brokeshire." Mr Owens said he was very proud of the members of the Loud Applause Rising Stars  stable. "They really have responded very well to the opportunities to perform on the public stage. “With Rising Stars our work is simple: we help foster and mentor you...

The latest 'On Song' column (about the choral scene in and around Llanelli) from the Llanelli Star - There’s very little sign of our choirs taking a summer break, as the concert programme for July promises to be exceptionally busy. Cerith Owens and his Loud Applause Productions team have a particularly busy spell in July. Events include - Loud Applause Summer Soiree: A black tie event with wine and canapés at Stradey Castle, Llanelli, 18th July - Parti Llwchwr, fresh from their win in the People’s Vote in Cor Cymru; The Loud Applause Rising Stars: Vocalists: Nia Rees, Stephen Davies and Johnny Mansel Lewis. Instrumentalists: Cai Charles (guitar), Rhodri Thomas (trombone), Ffion Elin Williams (Harp). Andrew Pike (accompanist). Robert Lloyd (Host). Tickets on sale at Llanelli’s Cadno Music Shop 01554 771772.  Midsummer Music Concert at St Elli Parish Church, 11th July -Swansea Bach Choir, The Singhs, Guillaume Mathias. Loud Applause has linked up with the historic Llanelly Hous...

It’s being billed as Midsummer Music – and tickets are going fast. The evening promises to be one of ‘must attend’concerts of the summer in Llanelli. The date is Saturday, July 11, and the occasion sees the visit of the acclaimed Swansea Bach Choir to Llanelli. The concert is being organised by Llanelli-based promoter Cerith Owens, of Loud Applause Productions and sees the Swansea Bach Choir performing at Llanelli’s Parish Church. The choir will be joined by The Singhs, three outstanding violinists from the famous Singh family in West Wales, and pianist Guillaume Mathias. “It is a very atmospheric setting for a classical concert and we hope to give the Swansea Bach Choir and The Singhs a very special welcome to Llanelli,” said Mr Owens. The programme is varied and is designed to showcase the very best of the Swansea Bach Choir, The Singhs and pianist Guillaume Mathias. "These are musicians and singers of the highest calibre and the setting of St Elli Parish Church w...

The latest 'On Song' column (about the choral scene in and around Llanelli) from the Llanelli Star -  Llanelli concert promoter Cerith Owens, of Loud Applause Productions, has published details of his full calendar of events for 2015. “It’s going to be another busy year and I have tried very hard to give some reasonable advance notice of events as I appreciate it can be difficult for other choirs and event promoters to avoid clashes,” said Mr Owens. “Hopefully, our calendar of events will give everyone the chance to make a note in their diaries for the events they want to attend.” Loud Applause Productions events 2015 - Midsummer Music Concert St Elli Parish Church 11th July Swansea Bach Choir, The Singhs Guillaume Mathias Loud Applause has linked up with the historic Llanelly House to provide a pre concert Reception Tickets now on sale at Ffwrnes Theatre Box 0845 226 3510 Loud Applause Summer Soiree A black tie event with wine and canapes Stradey Castle 18th July Parti Llwchwr...

Llanelli concert promoter Cerith Owens has revealed details of his 2015 Loud Applause Productions events calendar - Midsummer Music Concert St Elli Parish Church, Llanelli 11th July Swansea Bach Choir, The Singhs Guillaume Mathias Loud Applause has linked up with the historic Llanelly House to provide a pre-concert reception Tickets now on sale at Ffwrnes Theatre Box 0845 226 3510 Loud Applause Summer Soiree A black tie event with wine and canapes Stradey Castle, Llanelli 18th July Parti Llwchwr The Loud Applause Rising Stars: Vocalists: Nia Rees, Stephen Davies and Johnny Mansel Lewis Instrumentalists: Cai Charles (guitar), Rhodri Thomas (trombone), Ffion Elin Williams (Harp) Andrew Pike (accompanist) Robert Lloyd (Host) Tickets on sale at Llanelli’s Cadno Music Shop 01554 771772 Loud Applause Annual Concert – ‘Night With the Stars’ Ffwrnes Theatre, Llanelli 7th November Morriston Orpheus Choir All the Loud Applause Rising Stars. Soloists: Samuel Morris, Jordan Williams, Johnny Mansel...

The latest 'On Song' column (about the choral scene in and around Llanelli) from the Llanelli Star -  Make a date in your diary for Saturday July 11 and the visit of the prestigious Swansea Bach Choir to Llanelli. The concert is being organised by Llanelli-based promoter Cerith Owens, of Loud Applause Productions and sees the Swansea Bach Choir performing at Llanelli’s Parish Church. “It is a very atmospheric setting for a classical concert and we hope to give the Swansea Bach Choir a very special welcome to Llanelli,” said Mr Owens. The Swansea Bach Choir was formed in 1965 with the aim of presenting the very best choral works from the past five centuries, to as wide a public as possible, and in as professional and authentic a manner as possible. Many of the choir’s 40 members are trained singers, music students, and teachers of music. The choir is renowned for its performances of Baroque music, in particular the major works of Bach. Its performance of the Matthäus-Pas...