Wednesday 16 July 2014
Wales On-line Media reported........
Full report at:
http://www.walesonline.co.uk/news/local-news/hitting-right-notes-huge-success-7429374
Three acts from the county borough sang their way to astounding success at the Llangollen International Music Eisteddfod, which drew in 22,000 during its five days last week.
Bridgend Male Choir scooped the top spot in the Male Voice Choir category, becoming only the second South Wales choir to do so in 67 years; Maesteg teenager Rhydian Jenkins saw off competition from as far as Hong Kong to take both the Under 18s Vocal Solo International Medal and the second place prize in the Folk Song category; while Cowbridge choir Cor Heol-y-March pulled off an unbelievable double to be named winners of both the Children’s Folk Song category, and Children’s Choir of the World competition.
David Burt, Bridgend Male Choir’s media officer, said: “Months and months of learning and rehearsal under the musical direction of Rhiannon Williams-Hale and Stephanie Bailey have paid off, with the Bridgend singers taking first prize in North Wales’ world-famous competition after taking runners-up places at Torquay and Douglas, Isle Of Man in the past 18 months.
The announcement proved a tense time for the 76-strong choir, as just a fraction separated them from the runners up, Bloemfontein Male Choir from South Africa.
“The wait has been worth it – the choristers and music team are ecstatic and the cheer which accompanied the announcement was probably heard miles away.”
An emotional choir chairman, John Gould, added: “In my 27 years with the choir, this is my proudest moment. Everyone’s worked so hard. Many, many thanks.”