Just a week ago we had a return concert from extraordinary percussion group Ensemble19. They brought an array of instruments: marimbas, vibraphone, glockenspiel a drum kit and more, and owing to the relatively short history of these–many of the pieces they played being originally scored for other instruments, it gave them a chance to demonstrate their skills at arrangement.

From the 4th movement of Dvořák's String Quartet No. 12 to Peter Maxwell Davies' Farewell to Stromness and Steve Reich's intricate Music for Pieces of Wood we were wowed by this group's dexterity and musicality. All this with an eagerness to share their knowledge with the audience.

This came to the fore when they asked for volunteers to play in a rendition of Dave Brubeck's Take 5 – with the lucky winners being given solo spots!

It's fair to say both the audience and the players had a very enjoyable evening…

It was our absolute pleasure playing for you on Saturday night. We had such a blast and it was so nice to be in Wales again doing what we love. Thank you so much for the opportunity! We’d be back in a heartbeat so don’t hesitate to ask.

Our concert thoughts now turn to our always-anticipated and enjoyable Autumn visit from Gwent Chamber Orchestra, on Saturday 26th September, 7.30pm at St. Michael & All Angels, Cwmdu, NP8 1RW. Their chosen repertoire this year:

In the first half soprano Lowri Probert will sing two operatic arias by Mozart and Morgen by Richard Strauss. The main piece for the second half of the concert is Haydn Symphony number 89 in F.

Tickets are now available, and we encourage people to take them up early as this is a very popular event!

Until then, a two month festival of BBC Proms starts next Friday, 17th July. In addition to the venues all concerts are broadcast on Radio 3, with selected ones on TV. Details are available here.

Thank you for your continued support of Friends of Cwmdu Music.