PRESS ITEM
VISIT OF POSTCHOR KLAGENFURT MALE CHOIR (AUSTRIA) TO WALES
WUNDERBAR! I am writing this short tour review within hours of a most magnificent Concert at the Bethlehem Church Life Centre, Cefn Cribwr and the most appropriate thing I can say is WONDERFUL!
Prior to its visit to Wales, one of Austria's Carinthia region's most successful choirs had received a tremendous build up leading to much anticipation. Its audience was not to be disappointed at the sell-out full house on Friday evening at Cefn Cribwr. Under its Musical Director, Josef Oberdorfer this "a Capela" Choir provided full value for money. Its harmonies and balanced tone provided a feast of joyous sounds with simple melodies played out with feeling and sensitivity. Amongst its
repertoire were songs from Russia, Italy, Estonia, France, Germany and of course its home, Austria. Soloists, Martin, Sigi, Meriel, Bernhardt and Otto were a delight, not least the latter's yodel highlight.
Bridgend Male Choir, hosting this overseas choir as part of its commitment to its mission, "Friendship through music", can take pride not only in bringing these excellent visitors to Wales, but in its own performance as part of its Annual Friendship Concert programme. The Choir was on top form in supporting the visitors, with maestro John Jenkins at the helm, supported by excellent accompanist Rhiannon Williams-Hale. Leon Evans, Gwyn Williams & Paul Carter provided the solo content. The
Concert ended with both Choirs combining to sing You'll Never Walk Alone, which brought a standing ovation from the appreciative audience.
Earlier in the week, Bridgend had sent representatives to Stanstead to welcome its guests & accompany them to their base, the Seabank Hotel, Porthcawl. A successful social evening was held at the venue, followed by a trip to Cardiff the following day. The guest Choir took the opportunity to sing at both the Church and Chapel housed within the Welsh Folk Museum and later sang at the Senedd, after being welcomed to the Welsh Assembly by Counsel General, Leader of the House, Bridgend AM and Bridgend
Male Choir Vice President, Carwyn Jones. A visit to the Designer Shopping Outlet on the morning of the Annual Friendship Concert put the visitors in the mood for the musical legacy, which will be remembered in the locality for some time.
Bridgend Male Choir's next local concert is at 7 pm on Wednesday, 2nd July at Brackla Tabernacle Chapel when it will share the stage with Tremains Junior School Choir, in the Rotary Club of Bridgend Charity Concert. Tickets are available from Porters Estate Agents, Bridgend or Choir Secretary, Gareth Reese on 01656 862037.
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