• Brass
• Choir
• Dance
• Jazz
• Orchestra
• Theatre
• Wind Orchestra
• Cymraeg

News Archive

August 2010

What A Difference A Day Makes

The fifty-five members of the National Youth Theatre of Wales 2010 are currently in-residence in Aberystwyth – working between the University and the Arts Centre - to create, rehearse and launch their 2010 production, Diwrnod Heb Ei Debyg / No Other Day Like Today, before touring to Clwyd Theatr Cymru in Mold and The Riverfront, Newport.

NYTW is particularly excited about this year’s production in that it takes to the stage with a brand new work written by young people. No Other Day like Today is the result of many weekends’ work with NYTW Young Writers who contributed their voices, ideas, hopes and dreams to produce a challenging script for the members of NYTW 2010. Supported by award-winning writer, Manon Eames, and award-winning director, Tim Baker, this new play takes the audience on a journey through twenty-four hours in the life of an ordinary town in Wales, in summer 2010, as seen through the eyes of young people.

“Ever since taking up the post of NYTW Artistic Director in 2008, it has been my fervent desire to hear the voices of young people on our national stage. This year, this dream has been fulfilled thanks to the amazing work of our Young Writers”
Tim Baker, NYTW Artistic Director

“Giving young people a voice through such a brilliant voicebox as theatre is inspiring”
NYTW Young Writer

The fictional inhabitants of the fictional village of Llanhynallallacarall – the dreamers, the schemers, the bitter and twisted, the benign, the beleaguered and the just plain barmy – have to get through one particular, summer Friday, one way or another ….

With support from a fifteen-strong, professional artistic team, the Youth Theatre’s actors are developing their performing skills, whilst members of the backstage team are honing their design and production skills.

Together, they are generating another ambitious, large-scale production that, in true NYTW tradition, will engage, enlighten and entertain its audiences.

“The dedication and enthusiasm of our young people is second to none; they rise to every challenge we put before them, and contribute amazing energy and enthusiasm to every task.”
Pauline Crossley – National Youth Arts Wales

Diwrnod Heb Ei Debyg / No Other Day Like Today features both Welsh and English

Friday 3rd September 1.00pm & 7.30pm	Aberystwyth Arts Centre 01970 623232
Saturday 4th September 2.30pm & 7.30pm	Aberystwyth Arts Centre 01970 623232
Tuesday 7th September 7.30pm	Clwyd Theatr Cymru, Mold 0845 330 3565
Thursday 9th September 1.00pm & 7.30pm	The Riverfront, Newport (01633) 656679
Friday 10th September 1.00pm & 7.30pm	The Riverfront, Newport (01633) 656679

Tickets: £12, £9 concessions, £6 students

 

Congratulations to the following members of the National Youth Orchestra of Wales who have been awarded prizes in 2010:

Pictured is NYOW Leader, Elanor Gunn, winner of the Welsh Livery Guild Award with Conductor, Owain Arwel Hughes CBE
(Photo: Geraint Todd)

Awards	Received by
the Ffrancon Thomas award for the player who is adjudged to have made a distinguished contribution to the Orchestra, both musically and generally	Erin Morrey & Sebastian Pennar
the Haydn Davies award for the most promising player still at school	Jonathan Davies
the Goronwy Evans award for the most promising brass player	Matthew Williams
the Gwynne Edwards award for the viola player who is adjudged to have made the most progress during the summer course	Angharad Thomas
the Friends of NYOW award for the most promising string player	Eluned Williams
the Taliesin award for the harpist who has contributed the most to the section during the course	Anne Denholm
the Welsh Livery Guild award for the most promising student in college or university who wishes to pursue a career in music	Elanor Gunn
the David Harris award for the most promising cello player still at school	Pollyanna Furness
Staff Percussion Prize	Elizabeth Stephens
Staff Woodwind Prize	Sam Turton

 

July 2010

Celebratory Concert Tour

This summer will represent the end of another era in the NYOW’s celebrated history as Owain Arwel Hughes CBE steps down as the Orchestra’s Principal Conductor.

Owain’s contribution to the National Youth Orchestra of Wales (NYOW) has been significant. During his eight years with the Orchestra, it has presented debut performances at the Young Euro Classic Festival in Berlin, the Welsh Proms, alongside Julian Lloyd Webber, and it was the first youth orchestra to perform at the prestigious Three Choirs Festival in Hereford. In 2007, the late Lady Walton invited the whole Orchestra to perform the closing concert of the summer concert season at La Mortella on the island of Ischia in Italy. Other highlights include a performance for the National Eisteddfod with Welsh-born, Hollywood actor Matthew Rhys, a first performance at the impressive Sage Gateshead and a second sell-out concert at the Three Choirs Festival last year.

This summer, the NYOW brings together 113 of Wales’ most talented young musicians for a fortnight of high quality music-making. Representing every region of Wales, the members (who range from 13-21 years of age) will meet for a week of intensive rehearsal before embarking on a concert tour which, this year, takes in: St Davids Cathedral (where the Orchestra will perform the closing concert of the Fishguard International Music Festival), Aberystwyth Arts Centre and St David’s Hall in Cardiff. In September, the Orchestra will open the North Wales International Music Festival in St Asaph before travelling to Manchester for its first-ever concert at the Royal Northern College of Music.

With an exciting programme featuring Debussy’s La Mer and the fantastic 2 nd Symphony by Rachmaninov, plus a brand new commission from Welsh composer, Brian Hughes, this summer’s concerts will be all about celebration. Come and join us, and support Wales’ young talent in what promises to be yet another very exciting summer of music for the NYOW. Have a look at our diary page where you can find details of the concerts in our summer season with performances across Wales.

Twelve Dancers, Twelve Days and Two World Premieres

Twelve of Wales’ finest, young contemporary dancers (aged between 16 – 21 years) and drawn from all over Wales, are currently in-residence in UWIC, Cardiff preparing for what promises to be a thrilling performance at Theatr Brycheiniog, Brecon on Friday 30 July 2010.

The twelve members of National Youth Dance Wales (NYDW) were selected by audition earlier this year, since which time they’ve been eagerly awaiting the start of the twelve-day residency. They’re now in the midst of a gruelling schedule that covers daily technique class, creative workshops, choreography and rehearsals – all in preparation for the evening of dance in Brecon.

NYDW Artistic Director/Choreographer, Errol White, takes the energy and ideas of the young dancers and mixes them with his own, distinctive movement style. During the residency, they will create and rehearse a brand new work – so new that it doesn’t even have a title yet! It promises to be exciting, edgy and entertaining.

NYDW will be joined in performance this year by The Peer Group – a company of five young dancers, who are all former members of NYDW. Errol has worked with these professional dance artists to create the second, brand new work to receive its premiere at Theatr Brycheiniog at the end of July. The ironically-titled A State of Rest is a fast and furious piece with a pulsating, urban soundtrack.

“I hope to create a programme with NYDW that is physically engaging and exciting to watch and perform; and I’m confident that that the young dancers and I will be proud of the work we generate, rehearse and perform this summer”.

Errol White, NYDW Artistic Director

Born in Hull and making a successful transition from rugby league (!), through break-dancing to contemporary dance, Errol White has performed with some of the UK’s best known contemporary dance companies including Wales’ very own Diversions – the Dance Company of Wales (now National Dance Company Wales). This is Errol’s second year with NYDW.

NYDW 2010
Theatr Brycheiniog, Brecon
Friday 30 July (8pm)
Tickets: £12, £9 (concessions), £6 (students)
Box office: 01874 611 622

May 2010

The members of the National Youth Orchestra of Wales 2010 have now been selected and are ready to Perform for Wales this summer.

Over 240 young musicians from all over Wales were auditioned last autumn and 116 members were selected.

For 2010, there are 33 new members, with the youngest turning 13 just eight days before her first ‘Nash’ course. At the other end of the scale, there are 14 members who will reach the end of their ‘Nash’ careers, including Elanor Gunn who continues as leader of the Orchestra for 2010.

The Orchestra will meet at the University of Wales, Lampeter for an intensive week of rehearsals before embarking on a short tour of Wales performing the closing concert of the Fishguard Festival in St Davids Cathedral, and concerts at Aberystwyth Arts Centre and St David’s Hall, Cardiff. The Orchestra will then reconvene in September to perform the opening concert at the North Wales Music Festival in St Asaph and a concert at the Royal Northern College of Music in Manchester. Full details of all concerts and how to buy tickets can be found on our diary page.

This year’s repertoire combines two of the romantic period’s masterpieces - Debussy’s La Mer and Rachmaninov’s 2 nd Symphony – plus a piece written by Welsh composer, Brian Hughes, which is a joint-commission for 2010 between the Friends of the NYOW, Ty Cerdd, North Wales Music Festival and the Fishguard Festival.

April 2010

Flying the Flag for Wales

Congratulations and Good Luck to Lara Jones (Tenor Horn), Lloyd Pearce (Bass Trombone), current members of the National Youth Brass Band of Wales, and to Matthew Horne (Trombone) and Gwyn Owen (cornet/trumpet), current members of the National Youth Brass Band of Wales and the National Youth Orchestra of Wales – all have been selected to represent Wales in the European Youth Brass Band.

The four musicians travel to Linz in Austria this weekend, where they will work alongside some of the very best young players from all over Europe under the baton of Karl Geroldinger - D irector of the Upper Austrian Music Schools and Conductor of the Symphonic Wind Orchestra Ried .

The Welsh Brass Band Association and National Youth Arts Wales wish them well and look forward to hearing all about their experience!



Announcing Auditions for National Youth Dance Wales 2010

NYDW is seeking to select up to 15 young dancers aged between 16 – 21 years for an intensive, two-week residency in July 2010 during which they will work with NYDW Artistic Director, Errol White, to create and perform a brand new piece of choreography.

Regional auditions for NYDW 2010 will be held on 8 May ( Cardiff), 9 May (Conwy), 15 May (Carmarthen) and 16 May ( Cardiff). Applicants should be able to demonstrate active involvement with dance at an intermediate/high level, and must be available for the full two-week residency (19 – 31 July 2010)

Applicants should have their family home in Wales, live in Wales or be studying in Wales to be eligible for NYDW.

Further information and application form; deadline 26 April 2010.

March 2010

NYWOW delivers a thrilling programme, to include two new works

After an extremely successful tour of Luxembourg in 2009, the National Youth Wind Orchestra of Wales returns to deliver an exciting and thrilling programme. Showcasing over fifty talented young musicians, the concert on Sunday 4 th April @ 3.00pm at William Aston Hall, Wrexham is the accumulation of a week of intensive rehearsals under the expertise of Colin Touchin.

Programme includes two world premieres – Footfall by Chris Petrie, former member of the Wind Orchestra and A Beade of Amber by Colin Touchin. It will also include Samuel Hazo’s Ride and the deeply personal Symphony No.2 by David Maslanka.

Tickets £8, consessions £6, under 18’s free
Tickets available from www.eventelephant.com/nywow

January 2010

Contemporary Dance Days with Errol White

National Youth Dance Wales is delighted to welcome Errol White to lead a series of contemporary dance days for young dancers in Wales! Errol is a highly-regarded dancer and choreographer with an international reputation and, following a successful first year with National Youth Dance Wales (NYDW) in 2009, he is about to embark upon his second year as NYDW Guest Tutor and Choreographer.

Errol and his team will lead a series of contemporary dance days in locations across Wales during March 2010 (dates and locations are listed on the Application Form, which you can download here). Each full day will include: contemporary technique, creative work, and choreography.  The sessions will build upon participants’ existing dance skills and experience, and offer opportunities to explore a range of ideas through creative, contemporary dance.  The sessions will also introduce participants to Errol’s movement style, and to the expectations and standards required to become a member of NYDW.

Applicants must be aged between 14 – 21 years and able to demonstrate active involvement with dance at an intermediate/high level.

 

Training Choir to perform at St Mary's Church, Welshpool

This year has seen a dramatic increase in the number of young people applying to join the National Youth Training Choir of Wales. Matthew Thistlewood, Youth Music Development Manager, said he was very pleased with this year's response, especially with the increase in applications from boys.

The Training Choir will be in-residence from 17 – 21 February at Moreton Hall School, Chirk, in preparation for its concert at St Mary’s Church, Welshpool, on Sunday 21 st February (3.00pm).

The concert repertoire includes a range of styles from popular arrangements of Blue Moon and Money, Money, Money to Hummel’s Mass in Bb and Welsh music by Mathias and Mervyn Burtch.

Simon Toyne, this year’s NYTCW Music Director, is also Assistant Head and Director of Music at Tiffin School, Kingston Upon Thames, Surrey, and Director of Music at Kingston Parish Church, whose renowned choir has broadcast on BBC1, Radio 4 and World Service Radio.

Tickets: £6 (free admission for school children) – available on the door, or from T ŷ Cerdd (029 20 635640) or Welshpool Tourist Centre (01938 552043).

We record with very much regret the death of Robin Jones

Robin was for many years a much-loved broadcaster for S4C, and his was a familiar voice at venues, including St David's Hall. He was an outstanding master of ceremonies, giving his time and professional services freely at both local and national events, particularly if they involved young people. He memorably compered the pre-Canada concert for the National Youth Brass Band of Wales and the massed, male voice choirs at the Wales Millennium Centre - humorously achieving his ambition to conduct the large choral forces. He will be missed for his advocacy of Welsh culture, his good company, and not least for his enthusiastic interest in National Youth Arts Wales - particularly the Choir, with which he and his family have long been associated.

NYOW members invited to celebrate Hogmanay with NYOS

Violinists from the National Youth Orchestra of Wales were invited to join the National Youth Orchestra of Scotland on its Winter Course.

Elanor Gunn, Leader of NYOW 2009 and Gwenno Roberts took up the offer to perform with NYOS. Eleanor must have felt quite at home, as she is currently studying at the Royal Academy Scotland. Gwenno, who studies at Cardiff University, said it was a wonderful opportunity to play with another National Youth Orchestra.

The course concluded with concerts at the Usher Hall, Edinburgh and the Royal Concert Hall, Glasgow, conducted by former NYOW conductor, Christopher Adey.

December 2009

National Youth Dance Wales to perform at Youth Dance Gala

Each year, National Dance Company Wales hosts a Youth Dance Gala at the Dance House, celebrating some of the best youth dance throughout Wales.

NYDW is delighted to be invited, working with Guest Choreographer, Error White and showcasing 'Valid Rand'.

The Youth Dance Gala is a superb way of bringing talented and dedicated young dancers together to see the variety of work and the high standard of performance being made by young people today.

The Gala will be held at the Dance House at the Wales Millennium Centre on Saturday 4th December, with 3 performances 2.00pm, 4.00pm and 7.00pm.

Tickets £8, £6
Box Office 08700 40 2000

Adam Gorb Wins Award for Wind Orchestra Commission

We are delighted to announce that Adam Gorb has won an award for his composition of Farewell at the 2009 British Composer Awards. Farewell was commissioned and premiered by the National Youth Wind Orchestra of Wales (NYWOW) for their tour of Luxemburg in April 2008.

Adam took his third Award in seven years in the category for Wind Band or Brass Band. The judges said the winning composition was, "an highly original work, beautifully scored, brave and epic." The climax of the piece they describe as "aurally devastating". In conclusion: "The winning work is in a class of its own, crafted by a true master of the genre."

The winners of this year's British Composer Awards were announced in a ceremony hosted by BASCA (British Academy of Songwriters, Composer and Authors) at the Law Society, London.

Farewell is published by Maecenas Music, and a full performance can be heard on their website www.maecenasmusic.co.uk

Photograph: Alan Gorb with conductor Timothy Reynish and the National Youth Wind Orchestra of Wales at the premier of Farewell.

BBC NOW / NYOW Collaboration 2009 - Bethany Elliott (OBOE) - a NYOW member's view

The collaboration between the BBC National Orchestra of Wales and the National Youth Orchestra of Wales was definitely an experience never to be forgotten.

A few weeks before the course, the repertoire and the details were finalised. I must say to begin with, I felt sceptical about the course, thinking it was going to be a weekend playing 'cheese', dressed up as skeletons!!

To a certain extent, this, in fact, is what it was. However, it was so much more challenging and fun than I thought it'd be. The repertoire was a lot harder than it looked, and because we were playing with a professional orchestra, we were expected to play it all to a high standard. Pieces like the Sorcerer's Apprentice were technically very difficult, yet other pieces were a real test of stamina, The Ghostbuster's being a good example! On a more personal level, I was asked by the principal oboe player in the BBC NOW to play one of the main solos of the concert - the theme from Swan Lake. I was so petrified, yet the professional players were so supportive. It was a real encouragement to know that the principal oboe and Grant Llewelyn, the conductor, trusted me enough to do it in the actual concert!

In terms of the concert itself, it was such good fun. I loved seeing the children's faces light up with excitement, especially when there were characters such as Batman and the Cyberman from DR WHO exploring the hall. I have to say my personal favourite was NYOW's very own Matt Jones dressed as a very pink panther!!

All in all, the Halloween Spooktacular, was an unforgettable concert. The combination of the music, the lighting, the crazy concert dress and the staff/children in fancy dress made the concert entertaining for the audience and everyone involved. It was definitely a night to remember!

Perform for Wales with NYTW in 2010

In the New Year, teams from National Youth Theatre of Wales will be travelling the length and breadth of Wales, scouting for some of Wales' most talented young actors, designers, stage managers and technicians (for young people aged 16 - 21 years).

Application forms are available NOW and the deadline for completed applications is Tuesday 1 December 2009. You can download a form by following the link above, alternatively contact the office by phone or e-mail and we will pop one in the post. (02920 265060 | nyaw@nyaw.co.uk)

November 2009

Halloween Spooktacular Concert - Sold Out!

This year's collaboration between NYOW and the BBC National Orchestra of Wales proved to be a fangtastic success.

The 50 selected NYOW members each had a member of the BBC NOW Orchestra as a desk partner, with whom to rehearse and perform. Some of our members were also selected to perform solo pieces.

The climax of the collaboration was a fangtastic concert at St Davids Hall, Cardiff, where the theme of the evening was film tunes, ranging from Dukas' The Sorcerer's Apprentice to Williams' Harry Potter and the Philisopher's Stone.

The audience was invited to dress for the occasion with make-up artists on hand to add the finishing touches. The whole Orchestra wore skeleton suits with Guest Conductor, Grant Llewellyn adorning a black and red satin cloak.

Our very own, Mathew Jones, NYOW, Youth Music Manager really got into the spirit of the evening by transforming into the Pink Panther!

NYBBW

2009 sees NYBBW Music Director, Dr Robert Childs step down after 10 years at the helm. The occasion was marked by a farewell concert at the Brangwyn Hall as part of the Swansea Festival in October.

It was a very emotional concert with presentations being made by Keith Griffin - Director of Tŷ Cerdd and David Maybe - Chariman of the NYBBW Friends.

NYCW performed Handel's Messiah at Royal Albert Hall, London

This year's NYCW conductor was David Lawrence who led the Choir in performances in St Asaph and Wrexham and in front of a capacity audience at the Conwy Classical Music Festival.

The focus of the season was a performance of Messiah in September as part of the BBC Proms at the Royal Albert Hall, London. The NYCW joined six other choirs, including the National Youth Choir of Great Britain and Halle Youth Choir, to form a chorus of over 320 voices in a performance to commemorate the 250th anniversary of Handel's death. The concert, sold out months in advance, was universally praised in the press with the Daily Telegraph remarking, "...when the choir burst in with 'And the Glory of the Lord' I knew we were in for something magnificent. The sound of those young voices was simply thrilling in a way that brooks no argument."

September 2009

NYCW perform at the BBC Proms

Good luck to the National Youth Choir of Wales who will perform Handel's Messiah at the Royal Albert Hall as part of the BBC Proms season this Sunday. Forming part of a massed choir, the NYCW members will perform alongside contemporaries from the City of Birmingham Symphony Youth Chorus, the Hallé Youth Choir, the National Youth Choir of Great Britain and Quay Voices from The Sage Gateshead as well as an international line-up of soloists and the Northern Sinfonia conducted by Nicholas McGegan. It promises to be a fantastic experience for the young choristers and we wish them all the best as they fly the flag for Wales.

Canrif / Century - a world premiere and a national tour

The National Youth Theatre of Wales is set to bring a brand new play to audiences in Aberystwyth Arts Centre, Clwyd Theatr Cymru in Mold and Sherman Cymru in Cardiff, with ten public performances in just eight days!

With support from the Arts Council of Wales, Canrif / Century is the result of months of research and writing by award-winning playwright, Manon Eames. The second in a trilogy of work, Canrif / Century draws upon Wales' recent historical heritage - unlike last year's hugely popular and successful NYTW production, Magnificent Myths of the Mabinogi, which focused on our mythological past. From an opening scene that depicts evolution as a time-traveller's equivalent to speed-dating - from monkey to Man in the blink of an eye - this year's production looks at some of the crucial events of the last century that have shaped and formed the world, and the Wales, in which we now live.

Canrif / Century is an emotional roller-coaster of a play that combines text with music, movement, and archive photographs and film-footage. Members of the cast assume a myriad of roles ranging from monkeys to Maggie Thatcher (four of them!), and include suffragettes, soldiers and strikers, and the scourge of parents in the 1950's - teenagers! NYTW Music Directors, Dyfan Jones and Greg Palmer, have composed music and songs in the style of each era, and the design team has had the challenge of dressing the Company to reflect the massive changes between the 1900s and the 1960s.

Without giving away too much of the plot, the audience sees history unfold through the lives of Dai and Myfanwy - or at least four generations called Dai and Myfanwy. Their respective stories are full of humour, banter and remarkable spirit - often in the face of harrowing adversity.

The members of the Youth Theatre are aged between 16 - 21 years and are drawn from all over Wales. Over 300 young people auditioned for NYTW 2009. The Youth Theatre is managed by WJEC on behalf of the 22 unitary authorities of Wales.

July 2009

Pick of the Crop

The pick of Wales' home-grown dance, music and theatre talent is gathering in locations across Wales this summer as National Youth Arts Wales embarks upon its summer season of courses, concerts and performances.

Selected by audition and drawn from all parts of Wales, over 400 of Wales' most talented young performers are devoting the best part of their summer vacation to prepare for an inspiring series of dance, music and theatre events for audiences throughout Wales and beyond.

This summer's highlights include a debut concert at The Sage Gateshead by the National Youth Orchestra of Wales; no fewer than eight new commissions and premiere performances; and a new partnership for National Youth Dance Wales.

The concert season kicks off this week with the National Youth Brass Band of Wales in North Wales, presenting a programme that includes new works by Peter Graham, Rodney Newton and Dan Price - continuing the NYAW reputation of commissioning and performing new work by Welsh composers.

Simultaneously, the National Youth Choir of Wales opens its series of concerts in Conwy with its first appearance at the Conwy Classical Music Festival before travelling across to St Asaph and Wrexham. The Choir's programme features works by highly-regarded Welsh composers, Mervyn Burtch, Alun Hoddinott, William Mathias and Mansel Thomas.

National Youth Jazz Wales marks its debut at the Aberystwyth MusicFest on 29 July with the premiere of a new work by Ed Puddick - one of the rising stars of the UK jazz scene - and with music direction by Percy Pursglove.

Cardiff's Arts Active, National Dance Company Wales, WNO Max and National Youth Dance Wales join forces this year to produce summerdance 09 - a focus on youth dance and some of Wales' brightest young dancers. This year, NYDW welcomes Errol White as its Guest Choreographer. Errol is an award-winning dancer and choreographer who has worked with some of the UK's best-known contemporary dance companies, including our very own National Dance Company Wales (formerly Diversions).

Owain Arwel Hughes CBE continues at the helm of the National Youth Orchestra of Wales in 2009, steering it through public concerts in Wales and in England - including a debut concert at the magnificent Sage in Gateshead, one of the UK's newest and finest concert halls. Following a successful appearance at the celebrated Three Choirs Festival in 2006, the Orchestra has received a second invitation to the Festival - something of a coup for a youth orchestra! On the same day, the Orchestra will travel to Cardiff for the closing concert of its 2009 summer season at St David's Hall.

National Youth Theatre of Wales Artistic Director, Tim Baker, will be working with the sixty members of the Youth Theatre to realise a new play by award-winning writer, Manon Eames. Canrif / Century is a new commission made possible with funds from the Arts Council of Wales. It draws upon Wales' own recent, historical heritage to take actors and audiences on an inventive, break-neck journey via some of the crucial events of the last century. The play premieres at Aberystwyth Arts Centre before touring to Clwyd Theatr Cymru in Mold and Sherman Cymru, Cardiff.

"National Youth Arts Wales is a celebration of Wales' finest young performers, who are eager to share their energy, enthusiasm and considerable skills with as many people as possible as they Perform for Wales."
Pauline Crossley, Principal Manager (Youth Arts) on behalf of NYAW

NYOW Members thrive on Texaco Young Musician Stage

Congratulations to Steffan Morris and Steffan Ciccotti current members of the Orchestra as well as former member Anne Denholm for dominating the stage at this year's final of the prestigious Texaco Young Musician of Wales competition.

Cellist Steffan Morris took the title in a close run final demonstrating "near professional standards" according to the Western Mail but was pushed close by Anne Denholm (Harp) who took second prize and Steffan Ciccotti (Percussion) who took third. The two other competitors who took to the stage were 12 year olds Ben Creighton Griffiths (Harp) and David Shaw (Violin) - two future members of the NYOW surely!

Pictured left to right: Steffan Ciccotti, Anne Denholm, Gethin Jones (presenter) and Steffan Morris.

I'm sure you'll be well aware that NYOW is touring soon - so that's another good reason to go and see them.

National Youth Jazz Wales

National Youth Jazz Wales marks its debut at the Aberystwyth Musicfest this month with the premiere of Suite for Big Band by Ed Puddick, one of the rising stars of the UK jazz scene. The NYJW will perform a mixed programme ranging from classic big band to contemporary jazz, all under the direction of Percy Pursglove.

Aberystwyth MusicFest, Great Hall, Aberystwyth University
29 July 8.00pm
01970 623232
www.aberystwythartscentre.co.uk
Tickets: £12.50, Concessions: £9.50

National Youth Dance Wales

National Youth Dance Wales joins forces with Cardiff's Arts Active, National Dance Company Wales (formerly Diversions) and WNO Max to present summerdance 09, an evening of contemporary dance directed by Diversions' Artistic Associate, Roy Campbell-Moore at the New Theatre, Cardiff.

NYDW Guest Choreographer, Errol White, has created a brand new work for some of Wales' most talented, young dancers. His work is fast and furious, and not to be missed!

summerdance 09 also includes an exciting new work drawn from Diversions' own repertoire, reworked for a company of 40 fabulous dancers and accompanied by exceptional live music (courtesy of young musicians from WNO Max).

New Theatre, Cardiff
8 August 7.30pm
029 2087 8889
www.newtheatrecardiff.co.uk
*A small transaction charge is applied to all online bookings
Tickets: £7, Concessions: £5

June 2009

National Youth Choir of Wales

This year the NYCW performs across North Wales, and includes a first appearance at the Conwy Classical Music Festival. Under the direction of David Lawrence, the Choir sings repertoire ranging from the Renaissance to present day and from Estonia to the USA. It also features Welsh repertoire, including works by Mervyn Burtch, Alun Hoddinott, William Mathias and Mansel Thomas.

In September, the NYCW performs Handel's Messiah with the Northern Sinfonia at the BBC Proms; selected movements from the Messiah will also be performed in the summer concerts.

Conwy Classical Music Festival, St Mary's Church, Conwy
23 July 7.30pm
Tickets on the door

St Asaph Cathedral
24 July 7.30pm
03700 101051* or on the door.
Tickets: £8.00, Concessions: £5.00
Free admission for school children.

St Giles's Church, Wrexham
25 July 7.30pm
03700 101051* or on the door.
Tickets: £8.00, Concessions: £5.00
Free admission for school children.

*BBC NOW Audience Line - 0370 numbers are called 'UK Wide' and cost no more than calls to 01/02 geographic numbers.

Royal Albert Hall, London
6 September 6.30pm
0845 401 5040

National Youth Brass Band of Wales

This year the band is up north with concerts in Wrexham, St Asaph and Bangor.

The programme includes three new works; Peter Graham's On the Shoulders of Giants, a joint commission by NYBBW and The Cory Band, plus Rodney Newton's Concerto for Flugel Horn and Dan Price's Moonbeams, both commissioned by the Friends of the NYBBW and both showcasing the talents of flugel horn soloist, Joanne Childs. Other works also include Gareth Wood's Acteaon, Edwards Gregson's Rococo Variations and Turris Fortissima by Stephen Ponsford.

The Brass Band says farewell to its Music Director, Dr Robert Childs, in 2009 and celebrates his 10 year association with NYBBW with a performance at the Swansea Festival on 4th October.

William Aston Hall, Wrexham
22 July 7.30pm
03700 101051* or on the door

St Asaph Cathedral
23 July 7.30pm
03700 101051* or on the door

Prichard Jones Hall, Bangor
24 July 7.30pm
03700 101051* or on the door

Tickets: £8.00, Concessions: £5.00
Free admission for school children.
All seating is unreserved

*BBC NOW Audience Line - 0370 numbers are called 'UK Wide' and cost no more than calls to 01/02 geographic numbers.

Perform for Wales in 2010

Application forms are now available for all NYAW music ensembles NYBBW, NYCW, NYTCW, NYJW, NYOW and NYWOW. You can download a form by following the links above, alternatively contact the office by phone or e-mail and we will pop one in the post. (02920 265060 | nyaw@nyaw.co.uk)

NYOW Summer 2009

The National Youth Orchestra of Wales' new leader for Summer 2009 is Elanor Gunn from Gwynedd. Currently studying music at the RSAMD in Glasgow, Elanor has been a dedicated member of the Orchestra since 2006, she has always demonstrated the professionalism and maturity required to be a member of the NYOW and will be a perfect example to the younger members of the Orchestra.

NYOW '09 boasts 116 of Wales' best young musicians with all regions of Wales well represented. The youngest member of the Orchestra this year will be just 14 years of age on course; we have 10 members who are in their final year of eligibility whereas we have 39 new members who will be enjoying their first 'Nash' experience.

And what an experience! This year the NYOW will again be tutored by some of the UK's leading professional musicians and conducted by Owain Arwel Hughes CBE on a concert tour which will include a first performance at the impressive Sage concert hall in Gateshead, a return visit to the Three Choirs Festival in Hereford Cathedral as well as concerts in Aberystwyth, Bangor, Birmingham and Cardiff.

NYTW Summer 2009

Following the huge success of the NYTW 2008 production, Magnificent Myths of the Mabinogi, writer Manon Eames once again brings her remarkable ability to combine both the epic and the intimate with her new play for NYTW 2009. Directed by NYTW Artistic Director, Tim Baker, Canrif / Century is a portrait of Wales and beyond through the turbulent, traumatic and triumphant years of the 20th Century.

Canrif / Century will unleash the considerable talents of the sixty members of NYTW 2009 onto the passions and principles generated by the great struggles of the past 100 years, as both individuals and the nation itself strive for self-determination, and a greater voice and control of their destinies.

Significantly, 2009 saw the inauguration of Barack Obama as the first black President of the USA; it also marks a number of key international events (90 years since women became eligible to vote in the UK, 60 years since the outbreak of the Second World War, 50 years since the first man walked on the moon, 25 years since the fall of the Berlin Wall). Closer to home, 2009 commemorates a number of landmark events in Wales, including the Investiture of Prince Charles at Caernarfon Castle, the miners' strike of 1984 and 10 years of the National Assembly for Wales. It is against this backdrop of local and global events that NYTW 2009 weaves its' tale.

Canrif / Century is a large-scale production that combines text in both languages of Wales, with movement and music, which speaks to and for young people, and is of real significance to Wales in the 21st Century.

For full details of all NYAW concerts and performances see our Diary Page

March 2009

National Youth Training Choir of Wales

The National Youth Training Choir of Wales gave a well received performance at Swansea's St Mary's Church on Sunday 22 February. Conducted by new Music Director, Ben Parry, the Choir presented a rounded programme that included Britten's Jubilate in C, madrigals by Morley and Benett as well as show tunes such as You'll Never Walk Alone and The Circle of Life.

The NYTCW's concert came at the end of an intensive week of rehearsal spent at the Stackpole Centre in rural Pembrokeshire. The forty choristers, aged 13 - 16, were coached by a team of young professional singers, all former members of the National Youth Choir of Wales.

Wales Strengthens the ranks!

Congratulations to Tim Jones (Baritone) and Cai Isfryn (Cornet), current members of the National Youth Brass Band of Wales who have recently been selected to represent Wales in the European Youth Brass Band held in Stavanger, Norway during 26th April - 4th May 2008.

Tim and Cai will take part in a week-long series of rehearsals alongside some of the best young players from all over Europe and will perform on various occasions during the European Brass Band Championships.

Tim has been a member of the NYBBW since 2003, and has been Principal Baritone of the Band for the last 3 years.

Cai has been a member of NYBBW for seven years and has been Principle Cornet for the last 3 years. He is also a former member of the National Youth Wind Band of Wales, National Youth Orchestra of Wales and National Youth Jazz Band.

National Youth Arts Wales wishes Tim and Cai a wonderful experience and looks forward to hearing all about it!

National Youth Orchestra of Wales' releases its latest CD

The CD which will be released commercially on 19th February 2009, was recorded at St David's Hall last summer. It features Mathias' Celtic Dances and Vaughan Williams London Symphony and will be 'Record of the Day' on Classic FM this St David's Day.

CDs are priced at £10 each, please contact Alex James (029 2026 5197) to place an order.

February 2009

National Youth Training Choir of Wales presents its annual concert

2.30pm Sunday 22 February 2009
St Mary's Church, St Mary's Square, Swansea
Tickets £5.00 (School children: free admission)
Available on the door or telephone 01792 298616

The concert will be conducted by Ben Parry, one of the UK's leading choral directors and currently Director of Music at St Paul's School, London.

The performance concludes an intensive week of rehearsals, during which time the forty talented choristers will have prepared a varied programme which includes Britten's Jubilate in C, Franck's Panis Angelicus, Rodgers and Hammerstein's You'll Never Walk Alone and Elton John's, The Circle of Life.

January 2009

NYAW congratulates Owain Arwel Hughes and Michael Sheen for recognition in the 2009 New Years Honours List.

National Youth Orchestra of Wales Conductor, Owain Arwel Hughes, has been appointed a CBE for his contribution to music and charity.

Speaking to Wales Online, Owain said: "I'm very proud to be the recipient of this wonderful honour and look forward very much to an exciting year of music making."

Former National Youth Theatre of Wales member, Michael Sheen, has been awarded an OBE for his services to drama. Michael, who has portrayed characters such as Tony Blair and David Frost, has commented that he's looking forward to meeting the real Queen (a reference to his appearance in The Queen, alongside actress Helen Mirren in the starring role)!

New CD releases from NYAW:

The very best of the Brass Band, Choir and Wind Orchestra on CD.

Vienna Nights
National Youth Brass Band of Wales (2008), conductor Nigel Boddice, soloist Christian Jones (bass trombone)

Hoddinott, Vaughan Williams, Gareth Wood, Philip Wilby, Elgar Howarth, Philip Sparke

Tydi a Roddaist
National Youth Choir of Wales (2008) Conductor - Ralph Allwood, Christopher Whitton, organ

J.S.Bach, Alun Hoddinott, Arwel Hughes, William Mathias, Robert Pearsall, Henry Purcell, Thomas Tallis, Mansel Thomas, Eric Whitacre, Ralph Vaughan Williams

Also available:

National Youth Choir of Wales 2007
Conductor - Islwyn Evans
Mervyn Burtch, Gareth Glyn, Brian Hughes, Hector MacDonald, Gregory Rose, Grace Williams

Cloudburst
National Youth Wind Orchestra of Wales (2007), conductor Nigel Boddice, soloist Simone Rebello

Cedric Thorpe Davie, John Mazwell Geddes, Gareth Wood, Eric Whitacre, Adam Gorb, Martin Ellerby, Leonard Berstein

CDs £5.00 each from Tŷ Cerdd - Music Centre Wales, tel: 029 2063 5640

National Youth Wind Orchestra of Wales on tour!

The National Youth Wind Orchestra of Wales travels to Luxembourg during the Easter vacation (April 2009). The Orchestra will be directed by the Luxembourg composer/conductor, Marco Pütz, and will feature Philippe Schartz as soloist. Philippe, originally from Luxembourg and currently Principal Trumpet with the BBC National Orchestra of Wales, will give the first performance of a specially-commissioned concerto by Welsh composer, Gareth Glyn, at Trifolion, Echternach's newly-opened concert hall. The NYWOW's programme also comprises works by other composers from Wales, including Gareth Wood, and from Luxembourg, including Roland Wiltgen and Marco Pütz.

December 2008

Perfformio

The latest edition of perfformio is now available celebrating a whole host of achievements in 2008 and featuring an article on Last Choir Standing winners Only Men Aloud!, plus interviews with Ruth Jones (of Gavin and Stacey fame and former member of NYTW) and Tim Baker (current NYTW Artistic Director). If you are already on the NYAW database, you can look forward to a copy dropping on your mat in time for Christmas; if not, you can download a copy from the perfformio page or, if you'd prefer a hard copy, please send us your contact details for our database and we'll pop one in the post.

Happy Reading and Merry Christmas from everyone at NYAW!

The National Youth Orchestra of Wales and the BBC National Orchestra of Wales join together for Italian Feast!

Join the National Youth Orchestra of Wales and the BBC National Orchestra of Wales on Monday 20 October 2008, 7:30pm at St David's Hall, Cardiff for an outstanding performance of Berlioz's Roman Carnival Overture - a brilliant example of the composer's ability to transform vocal music into an exceptional orchestral work.

Also performed will be The Pines of Rome which has by now established itself as Respighi's most popular work. It is a mighty celebration of ancient glories. A feast for the ears, the work is in four movements, each one visualising a different scene from the city of Rome in Italy.

We are very pleased to announce the concert will be conducted by Paul Daniel and feature BBC Young Musician of the Year 2008, Peter Moore in Tomasi's Trombone Concerto. At only 12 years old, he is the youngest ever winner of the prestigious competition. The concert will also showcase the premiere of a new work, especially composed for this event by Ben Foster, and Tchaikovsky's fantastic Capriccio Italien.

This is the eighth year the BBC National Orchestra of Wales has worked in partnership with the National Youth Orchestra of Wales and is always an important date in our calendar, enjoyed by both the young musicians of the NYOW and their professional counterparts alike.

Don't miss your opportunity to see these two extraordinary orchestras. Tickets are priced at £8 (£4 concessions) and family tickets are also available at only £16.50 and £11. Tickets will be allocated on a first come first served basis and can be booked through the freephone BBC National Orchestra of Wales Audience Line on 0800 052 1812.

Full houses, standing ovations and wonderful reviews

NYAW was a great hive of activity this summer with 443 performers and over 7,000 people flocking to enjoy no fewer than 17 public concerts and productions.

With full houses, standing ovations and wonderful reviews, we are incredibly proud of our members' achievements; it is a great reward for all their hard work and commitment throughout the year.

Next year promises to be equally exciting with the Orchestra (NYOW) being invited to the International Music Festival Spilberk in Brno, Czech Republic and the Wind Orchestra (NYWOW) touring to Luxemburg.

Auditions for 2009 are already underway for the music groups, and application forms are currently available for the Theatre (NYTW) and Dance (NYDW). You can download them by following the links above or telephone Gillian Wells on 02920 265006 for a hard copy. Closing date is 1st December 2008.

We would also like to offer huge congratulations to Tim Rhys-Evans and Only Men Aloud who won the BBC Last Choir Standing competition. We are especially delighted as so many of the Choir are currently or have been involved with NYAW (either as members, former-members, welfare staff, tutors or conductors). We wish them well for the future!

September 2008

Myth, Magic and Mayhem - Wales' finest young performers take to the road

The National Youth Theatre of Wales is set to launch its 2008 summer tour in Aberystwyth before heading for venues in North and South Wales.

Following just over three weeks of rehearsals, the 60 members of the Company are ready to unleash their new interpretation of Wales' oldest tales - The Mabinogi - under the guiding hand of Artistic Director, Tim Baker.

Mythau Mawreddog y Mabinogi / Magnificent Myths of the Mabinogi combines music, movement, masks and puppets with story-telling, through text adapted for the stage by award-winning dramatist, Manon Eames. It has tested the skills of the design team and the actors in that everything has been generated on-course - from over 100 specially-designed and made costumes and masks, through to a newly-composed musical score by Dyfan Jones using the musical talents of the 45 performers.

Without giving away too much of the plot, the audience is transported to another time and another place, where giants and kings do battle, where magicians and wizards make mischief, where princes and maidens fall in love, and where a bridge, a bath full of water and a billy-goat prove too much for one of our reluctant heroes!

Head of Design, Guto Humphreys, and his team have created a stark world of slate and granite within which these epic, dramatic tales are told. Magnificent Myths of the Mabinogi promises to be a dark adventure that will thrill, excite and delight.

The members of the Youth Theatre are aged between 16 - 21 years and are drawn from all over Wales. Over 300 young people auditioned for NYTW 2008.

NYTW 2008 - LISTINGS

Friday 5th September 1.00pm & 7.30pm
NYTW Performance - Aberystwyth Arts Centre 01970 623232
Saturday 6th September 2.30pm & 7.30pm
NYTW Performance - Aberystwyth Arts Centre 01970 623232
Tuesday 9th September 7.30pm
NYTW Performance - Clwyd Theatr Cymru 0845 330 3565
Wednesday 10th September 1.00pm
NYTW Performance - Clwyd Theatr Cymru 0845 330 3565
Friday 12th September 1.00pm & 7.30pm
NYTW Performance - Sherman, Cardiff 029 2064 6900
Saturday 13th September 2.30pm & 7.30pm
NYTW Performance - Sherman, Cardiff 029 2064 6900
Tickets £10, concessions £6

EDITORS NOTES:
Images are available and photo-shoot opportunities can be arranged; official production-shots will be available from 5 September.
The NYTW is supported by the twenty-two unitary authorities of Wales.

The NYTW is part of National Youth Arts Wales (NYAW)
NYAW comprises:
National Youth Brass Band of Wales
National Youth Choir of Wales
National Youth Dance Wales
National Youth Jazz Wales
National Youth Orchestra of Wales
National Youth Theatre of Wales
National Youth Wind Orchestra of Wales
WJEC manages and administers:
National Youth Orchestra of Wales
National Youth Theatre of Wales
National Youth Dance Wales

WAMF /Tŷ Cerdd manages and administers:
National Youth Brass Band of Wales
National Youth Choir of Wales
National Youth Jazz Wales
National Youth Wind Orchestra of Wales

NYAW also receives financial support from the Welsh Assembly Government and Arts Council of Wales.

Former members of the NYTW who are currently enjoying popular and critical success include Matthew Rhys, Michael Sheen, Ruth Jones, Rob Brydon, Eve Myles and Kimberley Nixon.

Contact: Pauline Crossley - National Youth Arts Wales, 029 2026 5060 / 07778 653682 pauline.crossley@nyaw.co.uk

On the Road with National Youth Arts Wales

Over 300 of Wales' most talented young performers take to the road this summer with an exciting series of concerts and performances, in venues across Wales and further afield.

National Youth Arts Wales (NYAW) will cover over 2,000 miles between July and September, with events in North, South, Mid and West Wales - plus Birmingham, Canterbury and London! See Diary for details

A Hollywood actor, a new take on an old tale, tributes to a very special music-maker and two very special invitations.

This summer's highlights include a very special appearance by Matthew Rhys with the National Youth Orchestra of Wales; a reworking of Wales' oldest stories from the award-winning dramatist, Manon Eames, for the National Youth Theatre of Wales; an invitation to Canterbury Cathedral for the National Youth Choir of Wales accompanied by National Youth Symphonic Brass; a celebration of Alun Hoddinott and his contribution to youth music in Wales; and all this on the heels of a very special guest performance by members of National Youth Dance Wales at this summer's National Youth Dance Festival in London.

The concert season was heralded in by the National Youth Brass Band of Wales, whose programme included the premiere of a new work by Gareth Wood, Concerto for Bass Trombone, continuing the NYAW reputation of commissioning and performing new work by Welsh composers.

The National Youth Choir of Wales' opening concert in Great Malvern was quickly followed by a performance in the MusicFest Aberystwyth on 29 July at Llanbadarn Church, Aberystwyth. The Choir's programme included and celebrated work by Alun Hoddinott and Ralph Vaughan Williams.

The works of Hoddinott and Vaughan Williams also feature in the National Youth Orchestra of Wales programme this summer, as does the work of Welsh-composer, William Mathias. However, another highlight must be the appearance of Hollywood actor, Matthew Rhys. A former member of the National Youth Theatre of Wales, Matthew will narrate the first-ever Welsh translation of Britten's Young Person's Guide to the Orchestra at St David's Hall on 7 August as part of the National Eisteddfod in Cardiff, conducted by NYOW Music Director, Owain Arwel Hughes OBE.

With its new Artistic Director, Creative Wales Award-winner Tim Baker, at the helm the National Youth Theatre of Wales takes on a task of mythic proportions this summer with a re-interpretation for the stage of The Mabonogi by award-winning dramatist, Manon Eames. Mythau Mawreddog y Mabinogi / Magnificent Myths of the Mabinogi opens in Aberystwyth Arts Centre on 5 September before touring to Clwyd Theatr Cymru in Mold and Sherman, Cardiff

National Youth Dance Wales featured as a special guest of Youth Dance England at the closing performance of this summer's National Youth Dance Festival, at the Peacock Theatre in London. Performing an extract from Just Me, choreographed by Henri Oguike, the young dancers achieved rapturous applause and a standing ovation - presenting the best of Wales to a dance-loving, enthusiastic audience.

Matthew Rhys to perform with National Youth Orchestra

Actor Matthew Rhys, star of stage, screen and TV will take to the stage with the National Youth Orchestra of Wales as part of this summer's National Eisteddfod.

Former member of the National Youth Theatre of Wales, Matthew will provide the first-ever narration in Welsh for Britten's Young Person's Guide to the Orchestra, conducted by NYOW Music Director, Owain Arwel Hughes OBE.

"We're delighted that Matthew is able to join us for this very special performance. As a former member of the Youth Theatre, Matthew is no stranger to the work of National Youth Arts Wales. It is fantastic for NYOW and the Eisteddfod that he is able to make time in his extremely busy schedule to support us in this way." Matthew Jones, Youth Music Manager, NYOW

During his time with the National Youth Theatre of Wales, Matthew performed in Bertolt Brecht's The Caucasion Chalk Circle and in Y Pry Gwaed (Mayakovsky).

Currently, Matthew can be seen in the role of Dylan Thomas in the recently-released movie, The Edge of Love, alongside Keira Knightley and Sienna Miller. He also stars in the US TV hit series Brothers and Sisters. Other screen credits include Very Annie Mary (with Ioan Gruffydd), Titus (with Anthony Hopkins) and Ed Thomas' House of America. He also co-starred with Kathleen Turner in the critically-acclaimed, stage-adaptation of The Graduate in London's West End.

The NYOW concert at St David's Hall, Cardiff on Thursday, 7 August (7.30pm) will include two other pieces - Mathias' Celtic Dances and Vaughan Williams' Symphony No 2. Tickets are available now from the St David's Hall Box Office on 029 2087 8444 or www.stdavidshallcardiff.co.uk (£10 for adults, £6 for concessions).

Matthew is volunteering his time and services in support of National Youth Arts Wales

For more information, please contact: Matthew Jones at the NYOW office on 029 2026 5047

Perform for Wales in 2009

Application forms are now available for all NYAW music ensembles (NYBBW, NYCW, NYTCW, NYJW, NYOW and NYWOW). You can download a form by following the links above, alternatively contact the office by phone or e-mail and we will pop one in the post. (02920 265060 | nyaw@nyaw.co.uk)

NYOW Summer 2008

This summer, the 114 talented young musicians of the National Youth Orchestra of Wales will entertain audiences with performances at St Davids and St Asaph Cathedrals, St David's Hall in Cardiff (as part of the National Eisteddfod), and a first performance at the recently-refurbished Town Hall in Birmingham. The Orchestra will again play under the baton of it's Conductor, Owain Arwel Hughes OBE.

This year's all British programme features Ralph Vaughan Williams' London Symphony, commemorating the 50th Anniversary of his death, Britten's Young Person's Guide to the Orchestra and William Mathias' vibrant Celtic Dances, a composition influenced by the traditions and heritage of the Celtic nations.

NYTW Summer 2008

A re-interpretation for the stage by award-winning dramatist, Manon Eames.

Combining epic drama and fine observation, live music and movement, sixty of Wales' most talented young performers bring our country's oldest stories to the stage in a new and powerful, bilingual production - directed by NYTW Artistic Director, Tim Baker.

No human passion is untouched by the Mabinogi - humour and pathos collide with tragedy and despair as the powers of the Underworld contrive to challenge earthly friendships and loyalties.

Introducing princes and knights, maidens and queens, wise men and magicians - each seeking to overcome the fantastical strengths and powers of the Celtic world - Magnificent Myths of the Mabinogi is a dark adventure to thrill, excite and delight.

For full details of all NYAW concerts and performances see our Diary Page

June 2008

Young Dancers head for London

The young dancers of National Youth Dance Wales (NYDW) have received a very special invitation to perform at The Peacock Theatre in London as part of this summer's National Youth Dance Festival.

The National Youth Dance Festival is presented and produced by Youth Dance England, the national agency for connecting young people with dance. This year's Festival is set to be the biggest yet with over 500 young people dancing at some of London's landmark venues. NYDW will perform as a special guest in the Festival's closing event on Sunday 13 July 2008.

The Festival will showcase companies of all styles and sizes ranging from small all-male street dance groups to large-scale contemporary dance and physical theatre groups.

NYDW will perform an extract from Just Me, choreographed last summer by NYDW Artistic Director, Henri Oguike.

"This is a great opportunity for our young dancers. They worked tremendously hard to create and rehearse this new work with Henri, which had an enthusiastic response when it premiered at the Sherman in Cardiff last summer. Representatives from Youth Dance England and the Festival saw the work and subsequently invited NYDW to guest at the Festival. We're excited at the prospect of sharing our love of dance and dancing with a wider audience." Pauline Crossley, Principal Manager (Youth Arts)

NYDW at The Peacock Theatre, London WC2
Sunday 13 July 2008 (5pm); Tickets £5
Box office 0844 412 4322 / www.sadlerswells.com

Notes
1. National Youth Dance Wales
National Youth Dance Wales (NYDW) provides a national focus for youth dance in Wales and it is open to young people, aged between 14 - 21 years, who just love dance and dancing!
NYDW works mainly with creative, contemporary dance forms but applications are encouraged from young people with experience of a wide variety of dance styles, including contemporary, ballet, jazz, hip-hop/street dance, modern, etc. as long as participants are willing to transfer their skills to a different way of working - or at least have a go!
NYDW will soon be recruiting for 2009. To receive more information and an application form, please contact: nydw@nyaw.co.uk; 029 2026 5006; www.nyaw.co.uk

2. Youth Dance England and National Youth Dance Festival
Further information about the Festival: www.yde.org.uk

Photo: Dancers of National Youth Dance Wales (credit: John Campbell)

April 2008

NYWOW Member wins Richard Fice Award

Congratulations to Meilyr Hughes (Horn player, National Youth Wind Orchestra of Wales) on gaining the prestigious Richard Fice Award. This annual award is made by the Cardiff County and Vale of Glamorgan Music Service in memory of Richard Fice, who, as a marine, was killed in the IRA bombing in Deal. Richard was a former member of the County Brass Band and of the National Youth Brass Band of Wales.

NYAW members create masterpiece

Members from NYOW and NYTW came together recently to participate in a creative design workshop. The idea for the day came from NYAW designers, elfen, who intend to incorporate elements of our members' designs and ideas within the publicity for this summer's concerts and performances.

In August, the Orchestra will perform Ralph Vaughan Williams' Symphony No.2 (A London Symphony), plus Britten's Young Person's Guide to the Orchestra and Mathias' Celtic Dances. In September, the Youth Theatre will present a new work adapted from the stories of The Mabinogion. During the design workshop, the students were asked to express their own interpretations inspired by these pieces.

Initially the students worked alone, creating individual masterpieces, but it wasn't long before they were working together to produce even more amazing art work.

Look out for their designs in the next edition of perfformio and on this website; who knows, maybe we have a budding Picasso in our midst!

Flying the flag for Wales

Congratulations to Chris Evans (Bass Trombone), Emma Harvard (Tenor Horn) and Bethan Evans (EEb Bass), current members of the National Youth Brass Band of Wales who have recently been selected to represent Wales in the European Youth Brass Band held in Stavanger, Norway during 26th April - 4th May 2008.

The three students will take part in a week-long series of rehearsals alongside some of the best young players from all over Europe under the Baton of Reid Gilje, one of Norway's top conductors and instructors. They will also share the stage with two well-known international soloists, Tormod Flaten (Euphonium) principal euphonium player with award-winning Eikanger Bjørsvik, and Roger Webster (Cornet) currently the principal cornet with Grimethorpe Colliery Band.

National Youth Arts Wales wishes Chris, Emma and Bethan a wonderful experience and looks forward to hearing all about it!

Have you got a way with words?

The National Youth Theatre of Wales is planning to launch a new venture for young writers.

We are calling for young people between the ages of 16 - 23 years to join us, work with us, improve their skills and be part of the creation of the National Youth Theatre of Wales production in 2010.

You do not have to have any experience of writing for theatre just an enthusiasm for exciting ideas, contemporary issues and dramatic situations. If you join us, over the next three years you will have a chance to work with some of the most experienced, professional writing and directing talents in Wales; you will participate in workshops where your work will be challenged, expanded and explored with actors, within both reading and rehearsal situations, and contribute to the development of a brand new play for NYTW 2010.

This is a real chance for your voice to be heard, to see your work come to life, and be part of a unique opportunity spanning three years and culminating in the premiere of a new production that will tour to venues in Wales and, possibly, beyond!

Interested?
Please contact : Gillian Wells, NYTW Administrator, nytw@nyaw.co.uk and request further information about the NYTW Young Writers' Programme.

March 2008

NYAW bids a fond farewell to one of Wales' finest composers

It is with great sadness we say farewell to a dear friend, Alun Hoddinott, a founder member of the National Youth Orchestra of Wales. He was also the first former member to have conducted the NYOW in a work of his own. Alun was commissioned to compose several pieces for the NYBBW, NYCW and NYOW including his second suite of Welsh Dances which he wrote for the NYOW in 1969 to perform to the Prince of Wales during his investiture year.

"Alun's contribution to music over the years has been immense, many of his compositions will stand the test of time with their rich colours and percussive nature. Wales has lost a composer of true international standing - he will be sadly missed" - Matthew Jones, NYOW Manager.

See how the Wind Blows

The NYWOW is performing two concerts of modern classics that include Michael Ball's Saxophone Concerto with Lara James as soloist. Another highlight of the programme will be the premiere of Farewell, a major new work by Adam Gorb.

You can catch the Wind Orchestra on Saturday 5th April at 7.30pm at Monmouth School for Girls or on Sunday 6th April at 3.00pm at the University Concert Hall, Cardiff. Tickets are available from Tŷ Cerdd (02920 635649/50) or on the door. Tickets £7 (£5 cons), or £3.50 for children and students.

February 2008

Concerts to whet your appetite

The NYTCW meets for its annual residential course during the February half term at Howell's School, Denbigh. It will perform a programme that includes Karl Jenkins' Adiemus and John Rutter's A Sprig of Thyme at St Giles Church, Wrexham at 3.00pm on Sunday 17th February. Tickets are available from Tŷ Cerdd (02920 635650), from the shop at St Giles or on the door. Tickets £5, (£3.50 cons) or £15 for a family ticket.

NYJW under its new Music Director, Percy Pursglove, will appear at Clwyd Theatr Cymru at 7.30pm on Saturday 16th February. Tickets are available on the door or from Pedr Roberts on 01352 755958. Tickets £7, (£5 cons).

In April the NYWOW will perform two concerts of modern classics that include Michael Ball's Saxophone Concerto with Lara James as soloist. The highlight of the programme will be the premiere of Farewell, a major new work by Adam Gorb

The NYBBW's concert programme in July will feature the first performance of Gareth Wood's Concerto for Bass Trombone and Brass Band. The soloist will be Christian Jones, principal bass trombone of the Philharmonia Orchestra. This year the NYBBW will be conducted by Nigel Boddice who recorded a successful CD with the NYWOW in 2007.

The NYOW will present concerts in St Davids Cathedral (Pembs), the newly-refurbished Town Hall in Birmingham and St Asaph. It will also present a concert for the National Eisteddfod in St David's Hall, Cardiff and record a CD in what promises to be a busy but exciting summer. The repertoire for the summer will be equally exciting with Mathias' Celtic Dances, Britten's Young Person's Guide to the Orchestra and Vaughan Williams' Symphony No.2 in an all British-programme.

See our diary page for all our Spring and Summer Concerts

Have you got a way with words?

The National Youth Theatre of Wales is planning to launch a new venture for young writers.

We are calling for young people between the ages of 16 - 23 years to join us, work with us, improve their skills and be part of the creation of the National Youth Theatre of Wales production in 2010.

You do not have to have any experience of writing for theatre just an enthusiasm for exciting ideas, contemporary issues and dramatic situations. If you join us, over the next three years you will have a chance to work with some of the most experienced, professional writing and directing talents in Wales; you will participate in workshops where your work will be challenged, expanded and explored with actors, within both reading and rehearsal situations, and contribute to the development of a brand new play for NYTW 2010.

This is a real chance for your voice to be heard, to see your work come to life, and be part of a unique opportunity spanning three years and culminating in the premiere of a new production that will tour to venues in Wales and, possibly, beyond!

Interested?
Please contact : Gillian Wells, NYTW Administrator, nytw@nyaw.co.uk and request further information about the NYTW Young Writers' Programme.

National Youth Theatre appoints new Artistic Director for 2008

Award-winning Director, Tim Baker, has been appointed Artistic Director of the National Youth Theatre of Wales 2008

Tim's credentials for leading the National Youth Theatre of Wales NYTW) are first class and he is keen to build upon the Youth Theatre's reputation for creating large-scale, bilingual theatre that can delight, provoke, excite, challenge and inspire.

Speaking of his appointment, Tim says "...This is a rare and exciting opportunity to continue and build on the pioneering work of the National Youth Theatre of Wales, and to bring my many years of creating theatre both for and with young people to a national perspective. I look forward to the challenge of creating a collaborative ethos, together with an appetite for the highest standards in innovative theatre which will be the foundation for the future of NYTW..."

Pauline Crossley, Principal Manager (Youth Arts) at WJEC and spokes-person for the NYTW said, "The position of NYTW Artistic Director attracted a massive level of interest, which is a positive reflection upon the current standing of the Youth Theatre in Wales and beyond. It was felt that Tim Baker would bring a whole host of skills and attributes to the NYTW - not least artistically and educationally, but also in terms of positive leadership, especially given the political and financial climates within which we're operating. We are delighted that Tim is joining us and look forward to embarking upon a new phase of ambition and growth for the Youth Theatre."

Tim Baker will take up his duties with NYTW early in the New Year with auditions for NYTW 2008; he will direct the major production with the Youth Theatre next summer, which will tour to theatres in Wales in September 2008.

Tim Baker
One of Wales' most successful and prolific directors, Tim Baker is Associate Director with Clwyd Theatr Cymru (CTC). Tim has directed over 30 productions for Clwyd Theatr Cymru where he has contributed to CTC's reputation for producing world class, accessible theatre.

With specific responsibility for the Theatre for Young People at CTC - and from his previous role as Artistic Director of Theatre West Glamorgan - Tim brings to the NYTW a wealth of experience and expertise in the contexts of both youth theatre and work with young people. Earlier this year, he wrote and directed the 2007 National Eisteddfod children's pageant which was described as "One of the best - if not the best - ever" [Barn]

Tim has undertaken international commissions in Japan, USA Spain and more recently in India. He also has regular teaching and directing engagements with the National Theatre, Royal Welsh College of Music and Drama, Aberystwyth University and Mountview School of Performing Arts (London).

November 2007

Audition for NYTW

The National Youth Theatre of Wales (NYTW) is currently accepting applications for auditions.

The NYTW offers training and performance experiences for young people in Wales and the auditions are an opportunity for talented young people to join the NYTW for 2008.

The NYTW numbers 60 young people aged between 16 - 21 years, who are auditioned annually and are drawn from all over Wales.

During a five-week summer residency, Youth Theatre members work alongside professional directors, choreographers, musicians, designers and technicians to create and rehearse a new production prior to embarking upon a series of public performances.

In recent years, the Youth Theatre has toured to some of Wales' most popular theatre venues including Aberystwyth Arts Centre, Clwyd Theatr Cymru (Mold), Sherman Theatre (Cardiff), Theatr Brycheiniog (Brecon), Theatr Gwynedd (Bangor) and The Riverfront (Newport).

The NYTW caters for young people who are interested in one or more of the following: acting, set design and construction, costume and make-up, lighting and sound, and stage-management. Applicants may audition for both acting and backstage.

Audition Requirements:

• Applicants should be involved with a drama group at school/college, or with a local youth theatre.
• Applicants for NYTW 2008 should be aged between 16 - 21 years by 31 August 2008.

If you would like to audition for the National Youth Theatre of Wales please download, print and complete the application form or call 029 2026 5006 to request a hard copy.

The closing date for NYTW applications is 19 December 2007.

For more information please contact: Gillian Wells, 029 2026 5006 nytw@nyaw.co.uk

Looking for that special present for Christmas?

Take a look at our range of CDs:

Christmas with the National Youth Brass Band of Wales and Buy As You View Band
Special Price £5

Cloudburst by the National Youth Wind Orchestra of Wales £5

National Youth Orchestra of Wales CDs:
Elgar - Symphony No 2 £10
Holst - The Planets £5
Shostakovich - Symphony No 7 £5

Special Offer - All 3 NYOW CDs £12

All prices include postage and packaging

To purchase, please send a cheque made payable to National Youth Arts Wales, stating which CD(s) you require, your name and address and a daytime telephone number. Please send to: NYAW CDs, 245 Western Avenue, Cardiff CF5 2YX

October 2007

Young percussionists of all abilities will have the opportunity to work with top professional players, try out new instruments, pick up tips and improve their playing at NYAW's forthcoming Percussion Workshop. The event, organised in partnership with Rhondda Cynon Tâf Music Service, will be held at Pontypridd High School on Sunday 25th November. Participation is free of charge and application forms can be downloaded here.

A successful summer for National Youth Arts Wales - and its' not over yet!

The National Youth Choir of Wales performed a sell-out concert as part of this years' BBC Proms at the Royal Festival Hall in London, The Guardian Newspaper said of the performance "the National Youth Choir of Wales, brought translucent tone and immaculate phrasing to Faure's Cantique de Jean Racine and Requiem."

The National Brass Band of Wales toured Canada for ten days, along with performances across Wales, including Lampeter, Bangor, Aberystwyth and Cardiff

National Youth Dance Wales was the Editors Choice for things to see in the Western Mail and its review of the production said "Contemporary dance is not only alive and well in Wales, it is positively thriving". The Big Issue review said "This is a profound piece of physical poetry and an education in the language of dance".

The National Youth Orchestra of Wales tour of Wales concluded in Cardiff at the St Davids Hall, after performances in Lampeter, Bangor and Mold and later this month the orchestra is off to Ischia to perform for Lady Walton on August 30th. Six of the players were featured in the Western Mail talking about their other cultural interests.

The National Youth Theatre of Wales will close this year's summer season with performances of Café Cariad in Aberystwyth, Mold and Cardiff.

July 2007

The best in Wales - summer 2007 with National Youth Arts Wales
This summer sees National Youth Arts Wales touring Wales (and Canada and Italy) with 300 young people from all parts of Wales taking part in the annual National Youth Arts Wales summer residencies.

This year there are performances in Cardiff, Bangor, Aberystwyth, Mold and London, plus invitation concerts in Canada and Italy.

A musical, passion (in Italy), fond farewells and a bunch of 'firsts'.
This year's NYAW season features a new musical about Italians living in south Wales just before and during the Second World War; passion with performances of William Walton's Symphony No 1; the final year with NYAW for Artistic Directors Greg Cullen (Theatre) and Islwyn Evans (Choir); and a first appearance at the BBC Proms for one of the National groups (Choir), and a bunch of 'firsts' for writer, Tim Price.

National Youth Brass Band of Wales
The National Youth Brass Band of Wales celebrates its 25th birthday with a concert tour of Canada in July 2007. During the ten-day trip the Band will work with tutors from the Toronto Opera and Symphony Orchestra in preparation for concerts in Toronto, Parry Sound and Ottowa.

National Youth Choir of Wales
The National Youth Choir of Wales performs at the BBC Proms at the Royal Albert Hall on Saturday 21st July with the BBC National Orchestra and Chorus of Wales in a concert that includes Fauré's Requiem and Cantique de Jean Racine. This represents a significant milestone in the history of National Youth Arts Wales, as the Choir is the first of the Welsh national youth ensembles to be invited to take part in the London Proms.
See Diary for all concert details.

National Youth Dance Wales
Following its residency based in Cardiff, National Youth Dance Wales kicks off the summer season with a new work that is sharp, quirky, full of pace and energy and shot through with a musicality that has become the trademark of Welsh choreographer Henri Oguike. NYDW 2007 presents only one performance this year, at the Sherman Theatre on Tuesday 31st July.
See Diary for performance details.

National Youth Orchestra of Wales Owain Arwel Hughes leads the National Youth Orchestra of Wales showcasing the considerable talent of its young musicians on a concert tour of Wales before travelling to the Italian island of Ischia to perform the final concert of a summer series run by Lady William Walton. This summer the Orchestra's programme includes Walton's passionate Symphony No. 1, Karl Jenkins' Tangollen and, in celebration of his 150th anniversary, Elgar's lively concert overture In The South. This year the Orchestra includes no fewer than eight sets of brothers and sisters, and the youngest player is just 14 years old.
See Diary for all concert details.

National Youth Theatre of Wales
The summer season ends with a new production, commissioned by NYTW with funds from the Arts Council of Wales, from emerging Welsh writer Tim Price. Café Cariad is a new musical with book by Tim Price and Greg Cullen, and music and lyrics by Jak Poore and Greg Cullen, set during the Second World War in Wales and Italy.

Café Cariad opens in Aberystwyth and then tours to Mold, ending its tour in Cardiff. 2007 is Greg Cullen's last year as Artistic Director with the National Youth Theatre of Wales.
See Diary for all performance details

March 2007

2007 sees the National Youth Brass Band of Wales celebrate its 25th birthday with a concert tour of Canada in July. During the ten-day trip the Band will work with tutors from the Toronto Symphony Orchestra in preparation for concerts in Toronto, Ottawa and the surrounding areas. The Band is currently working hard raising funds towards the cost of the trip and is actively seeking sponsorship and donations. An important part of the fundraising effort will be the Festival of 450 Voices in the Donald Gordon Theatre, Wales Millennium Centre on Sunday 8th July. NYBBW under its music director, Dr Robert Childs, will be joined by male choirs for a gala concert which also features euphonium superstar David Childs as soloist. This spectacular event is sure to be very popular and early booking is advised.

You have the opportunity to help National Youth Brass Band of Wales members; fundraising by purchasing their new CD. The Band has recently released Christmas with the National Youth Brass Band of Wales/Nadolig Llawen - Band Pres Cenedlaethol Ieuenctid Cymru on the Tŷ Cerdd label. The 20 track CD of festive favourites can be purchased from Tŷ Cerdd at the bargain price of £5.00.

The National Youth Orchestra of Wales and the BBC National Orchestra of Wales (NOW) join forces in March for their 7th annual collaboration. Following a short training course, wherein every member of the Youth Orchestra sits alongside a counterpart from the BBC Orchestra, the Orchestras will present a combined concert at St David's Hall, Cardiff.

This year's repertoire includes Shostakovich Festival Overture and Rimsky-Korsakov Sheherazade conducted by former NYOW member Grant Llewellyn. BBC NOW will also present Mozart's Clarinet Concerto with soloist, Robert Plane. (See diary for further details).

The National Youth Wind Orchestra of Wales under new Music Director, Nigel Boddice, will hold its residential course in Ruthin during Easter 2007. The programme will include Eric Whitacre's Cloudburst, Bernstein's West Side Story and the first performance of the Concerto for Percussion and Wind Orchestra by Gareth Wood, with Simone Rebello as soloist. The concert takes place in the Stiwt Theatre, Rhosllanerchrugog at 7.30pm on Saturday 7th April. Tickets are available from the theatre box office 01978 841300.

The National Youth Theatre of Wales is delighted to welcome Tim Price to its artistic team for 2007. Tim will be working alongside NYTW Artistic Director, Greg Cullen, to write a new, large-scale play that will tour to venues across Wales in September 2007.

Tim, who is originally from Aberdare, is a young writer who already has a string of television and radio credits to his name (Homeboys for ITV, All Yesterday Parties for BBC, The Cockle Farmer and Caerdydd for S4C, and The New Worst Witch for Granada).

The NYTW 2007 commission has attracted funding from the Arts Council of Wales. The play is set both in Wales and in Italy just before and during the Second World War, and it follows the lives of two families during this turbulent time.

Summer Tour of North Wales.

Over 300 members of National Youth Arts Wales, selected by audition from all over Wales, will take part in a host of performances in North Wales this summer. The National Youth Choir of Wales perform at St Asaph Cathedral before embarking on a tour of Ireland, the National Youth Brass Band visits Caernarfon, Buckley and Bangor (see details below), the National Youth Orchestra of Wales also perform at Bangor, National Youth Dance Wales visit Clwyd Theatr Cymru for the first time and the National Youth Theatre of Wales perform at Rhyl's Pavilion Theatre. See the diary page for full details. For your copy of our North Wales brochure, which has full details of all performances, ring NYAW on 029 2026 5060 or email Catherine Barry

Welsh Proms debut for NYOW.

It's the start of a busy summer for the young orchestra members: following a period of rehearsal, the orchestra tours to Bristol Cathedral on Tuesday 25th July, and then makes its debut at the Welsh Proms on Wednesday 26th July, performing Elgar's 2nd Symphony and Shostakovich's First Cello Concerto, with soloist Julian Lloyd Webber...read more

Souvenir Brochure now on sale.

If you haven't already ordered your copy, don't forget that the exclusive NYOW 60th Anniversary brochure is now available from the NYAW offices and will be on sale at events throughout the summer. Costing just £6 including P&P, the brochure gives a fascinating history of the Orchestra's first 60 years, including photographs specially supplied by archivist Kathryn Phipps. It also includes a free CD featuring an audio history of NYOW with exclusive extracts from six decades of recording. To buy your copy, contact Catherine Barry at NYAW on 029 2026 5060 or by email

New Concertos premiered by National Youth Brass Band.

As part of its policy of supporting new music, the National Youth Brass Band of Wales performs two new concertos during its tour of North Wales this summer...read more

New CD Recording.

A new CD by the National Youth Orchestra of Wales is due for release in September and pre-release copies will be available for sale at all performances. This new recording includes Elgar's 2nd Symphony and Investiture Dances by Alan Hoddinott. Price: £10 if purchased at a concert, or £11.50 by mail order and from record shops from September. For more information email Catherine Barry or ring NYAW on 029 2026 5060.

National Youth Choir of Wales.

The Choir adds yet another new commission to its repertoire this year by Argentinian-Welsh composer, Hector MacDonald. His three settings of texts for Christmas, Easter and Pentecost utilise lively rhythms. The works will be performed by the Choir in Wales and Ireland, when it gives performances in four cathedrals - St Asaph, St Mary's (Dublin), St Fin Barre's (Cork) and Christ Church (Waterford).

Stop press: The NYCW has been invited to take part in the BBC Proms in the Royal Albert Hall in July, 2007. The Choir will perform the Fauré Requiem with the BBC National Orchestra and Chorus of Wales.

Christmas Cheer.

The National Youth Brass Band of Wales records a Christmas CD during its Summer course. The disc, containing popular carols, will also feature solo performances by former members of the NYBBW, accompanied by the Buy As You View (Cory) Band

Summer stats and snippets.

In 2005, the 450 members of National Youth Arts Wales presented 32 public concerts and performances to, between them, a staggering 12,000 people ... read more

Choral Collaboration at Christmas.

The National Youth Choir of Wales and the National Youth Training Choir of Wales will join forces for a Christmas concert at All Saints' Church, Penarth on 21st December 2005 ... read more

A musical stocking filler this Christmas.

Christmas Spirit a CD of Christmas music from the National Youth Orchestra of Wales and Owain Arwel Hughes was released on Thursday 8 December ... read more

Symphonic Senedd.

National Youth Symphonic Brass Wales will provide the first music to be heard inside the new National Assembly for Wales Senedd building on 1 March 2006 ... read more

Bitesize.

Check out the latest performances, concerts and workshops being held by NYAW ... read more

Fire Man.

NYTW premiere Botticelli's Bonfire, a new play by Greg Cullen is the new play by Greg Cullen exploring the tumultuous political and social world of Renaissance Florence. A cast led by a Pope, some dodgy clerics and a group of volatile artists promises a 21st century spin on the skullduggery and shenanigans of another century ... read more

Diamond Geezers.

National Youth Orchestra of Wales is 60 years old and the party starts this summer with a tour of Wales and a CD recording of Christmas music under the baton of Owain Arwel Hughes ...read more

Zap the Dog.

Sixties legend Frank Zappa inspires National Youth Brass Band of Wales who will be playing his Dog Breath Variations on its concert tour ... read more

Reading Matters.

perfformio, our bi-annual magazine, is being redesigned this Autumn. Current issues are now available to order on-line ... read more

Festival favourites...

A BBC television news crew was on hand to record the National Youth Orchestra of Wales trip to Berlin where it received no fewer than five standing ovations at the Young Euro Classic Festival. The Festival has a policy of promoting the work of young composers and Ceiri Torjussen - who is just 28 and a former member of the the Nash - was chosen to represent Wales by NYOW Conductor Owain Arwel Hughes.

Sign of the times...

Henri Oguike, the new Artistic Director for NYDW, dropped into the BBC's On Show studio for a discussion with presenter Aled Jones and Welsh film director Marc Evans, prior to opening Spatial Signatures at Theatr Brycheiniog with young dancers from Wales. Spatial Signatures was also nominated as The Guardian's Pick of the Week.

Birthday boy...

Alun Hoddinott celebrated his 75th birthday by composing a new work for the National Youth Brass Band of Wales, who featured in another On Show programme dedicated to the Welshman's career.

Singing sensations...

Probably the most famous soprano around at the moment, Katherine Jenkins is a former choir member. She's following in the footsteps of Tom Jones and appearing in a glitzy concert programme in Las Vegas soon, but still found time to enlist the support of the NYCW to record her new album in a rather less high profile venue - namely, a recording studio in Carmarthen.