Choir Extends an Open Invitation

It’s well established that there are many benefits to singing in a choir. A quick internet search will turn up thousands of articles testifying to the positive effects of this activity on both physical and mental health. But one thing that is often ignored is the sheer fun to be had by singing in a group with others on a regular basis.

Ammanford based women’s choir Côr Persain are on a mission to share this message. During the whole of June, their rehearsals, which are held at the Miners’ Theatre every Tuesday, will be open to the public to attend. This is a great opportunity for anyone considering joining a choir to check out the experience, with choir members keen to add their encouragement. ‘I’ve always wanted to sing, but lacked the confidence,’ explained Alison Williams. ‘Being part of Côr Persain has given me that confidence and so much more. The choir feels like a family; from the beginning everyone was so friendly and welcoming. Joining the choir is one of the best decisions I’ve made and I’d recommend it to everyone.’ Chris Northover added, ‘Tuesday evenings are for me to forget being Mum and being asked what’s for dinner! Being with a fabulous group of like-minded women does wonders for my wellbeing.’ Rhian Thomas agreed wholeheartedly. ‘I joined the choir for some ‘me time’ and my family knows Tuesday evenings are sacrosanct. You can’t beat the feeling when, after fun, laughter and practising to learn your part, our voices sing out in glorious harmony.’

Recently, the choir has participated in some amazing experiences, including an event celebrating International Women’s Day where fourteen women’s choirs from across South Wales got together for a day of celebration and song. As well as regular local concerts, the choir has sung in the Houses of Parliament and also before an international rugby game at the Principality Stadium. With a repertoire which includes contemporary popular hits, ranging through musical theatre and more classical styles, much of it expertly arranged by the choir’s musical director Huw Morgan, there’s something to appeal to everyone. ‘We get a blend of learning music and having fun together. We all want to support each other, which is really lovely,’ commented one choir member,  while Susan Woodman described the experience as ‘friendly, happy, fun, enjoyable, spirit raising and fulfilling.’ Liz Lee concurred, adding, ‘You can sing your heart out and people applaud you for it!’

Unlike some other choirs, Côr Persain has an open door policy, with no auditions and no requirement to read music. All anyone needs is a love of singing and a willingness to learn. As choir member Cherry Stevenson explained, ‘I thought it would be a challenge to join a choir with no previous experience, but immediately I felt welcome. Singing is great for my mental health and wellbeing and I’m surrounded by wonderful, warm people. It’s good for the soul.’

Beginning on Tuesday, June 2nd  and continuing throughout the month, Côr Persain’s open practices will be held at Ammanford Miners’ Theatre, Wind Street, from 7pm to 9pm. All are very welcome to attend.

Female Voices Raised in Song

On Saturday, 7th March, Côr Persain took part in a groundbreaking event celebrating women’s choral singing across South Wales. The inaugural ‘Festival of Female Voices’ was held at the recently renovated Maesteg Town Hall, fittingly on the eve of International Women’s Day. The day provided a wonderful opportunity to come together with other choirs, to learn performance techniques in a series of workshops and to perform in the evening’s Gala Concert.

The excitement mounted as choir members boarded the bus in Ammanford on Saturday morning, ahead of them a long day of workshops, rehearsals and performance. Eleven choirs from all across South Wales took part, amounting to over 300 female voices raised in song.  As festival organiser, Diane Morgan-Wright, commented, the event was created to ‘celebrate Wales’ rich female choral tradition and to shine a light on what singing together means to women across South Wales.’ Every member of Côr Persain agreed that the festival went above and beyond in fulfilling these aims. Choir chairperson Anna Yates spoke for everyone when she pronounced the event a ‘fantastic success. The organisation was second to none and the provision of a chaperone to each choir (in our case the lovely Dawn) was extremely helpful.’  Grateful thanks are also extended to choir committee member Liz Howells who worked tirelessly, organising, booking and liaising with the festival to ensure that the day ran smoothly.

During the morning, the choirs were able to work with noted professional musicians, many of whom champion Welsh choral music across the world. Rehearsals followed in the afternoon and then came the highlight of the day, the gala performance! Compered by television news journalist Rebecca John, who has strong family connections with the Maesteg area, the concert began with all of the choirs combining together to perform Greg Gilpin’s ‘Why We Sing’. Following this, each choir had the opportunity to showcase its talent and repertoire. Côr Persain delivered a toe-tapping Bonnie Tyler medley, comprising ‘Total Eclipse of the Heart’, ‘It’s a Heartache’ and ‘Holding Out For A Hero’ – a performance which as greeted with great enthusiasm and huge applause by the appreciative audience.  After each choir had performed, everyone joined voices once more for May Erlewine’s mesmerising ‘Never One Thing’ and a new arrangement of Carly Simon’s ‘Let The River Run’.

It was late in the evening when the choir returned to the bus for the journey home, but everyone left inspired and uplifted by this joyous celebration of women’s choral singing. The feelings of all were summed up by choir member Brenda Thomas: ‘Can we do it again next year?’

An Evening of Melody

Ammanford based ladies’ choir Côr Persain were thrilled to be invited to take part in a concert recently held to raise funds for the charity Sandville Self Help Foundation. Billed as ‘An Evening of Melody’, the event took place at Edward Albert Prince of Wales Court, Porthcawl, on January 30th and Côr Persain shared the stage with Col Canto, under the direction of Paul Greenaway, while the Porthcawl Community Strings entertained  concert goers at a pre-concert reception.

Following a highly successful concert held at the venue last year and an appearance at the Porthcawl Flower Festival in June, Côr Persain were delighted to be invited back. A selection of traditional Welsh favourites such as ‘Calon Lan’ and ‘Suo Gân’ was warmly appreciated by the audience, who also joined in with the choir’s lively rendition of ‘Sosban Fach’ with gusto. The Welsh flavour of the first half was rounded off with Duffy’s crowd pleasing hit, ‘Mercy’.

Col Canto’s vocal strengths were elegantly showcased in  Mozart’s ‘ Ave Verum Corpus’, Robat Arwyn’s classic ‘Anfonaf Angel’ and a lovely arrangement of the traditional hymn ‘It is Well with my Soul’, among other pieces, while their soloists shone in items such as the Loew and Lerner favourite, ‘I Could Have Danced All Night’ from the musical ‘My Fair Lady’.

After the interval, Côr Persain, under the baton of their musical director Huw Morgan and accompanied on the piano by Dr Catherine Morgan, performed a lively Bonnie Tyler medley which had the audience tapping their toes and singing along again, before rounding off their set with ‘Anthem’ and ‘I Know Him So Well’ from the Andrew Lloyd Webber musical ‘Chess’. For the finale, the two choirs combined their voices for the soaring harmonies of ‘Cymru Fach’, which was received with thunderous applause .

Sandville Self Help Foundation’s Sarah Morgan explained a little of the invaluable work carried out by the charity, which is dedicated to supporting people with life limiting and life changing conditions. In her closing remarks she thanked both choirs and the string ensemble for taking part and outlined some of the activities and therapies the Foundation provides. The evening concluded with everyone joining together to sing the national anthem.

Côr Persain’s chairperson, Anna Yates summed up the feelings of everyone in the choir: ‘It was a privilege to take part in this concert, held to support such a worthy cause. The atmosphere was so friendly and welcoming. Many of us were approached afterwards by audience members who wanted to thank us for coming. Several commented that we looked as if we were having fun up on stage and this, of course, is true. We all enjoy being part of the choir tremendously!’

The choir holds weekly rehearsals at Ammanford Miners’ Theatre, every Tuesday from 7pm to 9pm. Anyone interested in coming along is very welcome to attend and take part in a ‘taster session’. There are no auditions and there’s no re      quirement to read music – just bring your love of singing and be prepared to enjoy!

What an Annual Concert!

On Saturday, 18th October, the warm glow of Gellimanwydd Chapel in Ammanford welcomed music lovers from near and far for Côr Persain’s annual concert. This year’s event was particularly special, not only because of the excellent performances but also as a celebration of 25 years of music, friendship, and community spirit.

We were truly honoured to share the stage with two outstanding groups who brought their own unique magic to the evening. Swindon Male Voice Choir, travelling all the way from Wiltshire, joined us under the skilled direction of their musical director, Kirsty Smith. Their rich harmonies and powerful delivery filled the chapel with beautiful sound. Our youngest guests, the talented children of Ysgol Y Bedol, were led by the skilful, Mrs Caryl Simpson-John. Their voices, bright and full of promise, added a joyful note to the concert, reminding us of the power of music to inspire all generations.

The evening’s programme was a true showcase of variety and musical excellence. Côr Persain entertained the audience with a stirring rendition of traditional Welsh favourites, delighting the audience with their version of classic songs, such as “Sosban Fach” and “I Bob Un Sy’n Ffyddlon.” We also wove in some modern pieces, including a rousing medley of Bonnie Tyler favourites, demonstrating the versatility and passion of our singers.

Swindon Male Voice Choir captivated everyone with their deep, resonant harmonies and disciplined ensemble. Their set featured songs such as “Somewhere Only We Know’ and “Putting on the Ritz.” The blend of time-honoured tunes and contemporary selections made for an engaging and uplifting performance. The children of Ysgol Y Bedol brought smiles and a few happy tears with their lively and confident singing. Their set included charming Welsh language songs such as ‘Cana Dy Gân’ and ‘Hufen Ia”. The audience was clearly moved by their enthusiasm, and the skill and care Mrs Simpson-John and the staff at Ysgol Y Bedol had put into preparing them.

One of the most touching parts of the evening was a special tribute led by Ysgol Y Bedol. The children honoured local war heroes with a roll call. Through their gentle voices, they reminded us all of the importance of reflecting on our past and cherishing the peace and freedoms we enjoy today. It was a beautiful moment of unity and respect that resonated deeply with all present.

No annual concert would be complete without a grand finale, and this year’s was truly spectacular. The choirs joined together for a stirring performance of “American Trilogy”. Their combined voices filled every corner of the chapel, raising the roof and bringing the audience to its feet. There was a real sense of togetherness and celebration, perfectly capturing the spirit of the evening.

We were delighted to welcome Dame Nia Griffith as our guest of honour. In her closing remarks, she expressed heartfelt thanks to everyone involved in making the concert a success and paid tribute to Côr Persain’s 25-year journey. In 2000, Elizabeth Watson and Hilary Thomas, shared their vision and passion for choral music and brought Côr Persain to life. As part of our 25- year celebration, we pay tribute to our founders who laid the foundation for a group that continues to bring people together, foster friendships, and share the gift of music with the wider community.

As we look back over a quarter of a century, it’s clear that Côr Persain has become much more than just a singing group. From humble beginnings, we have grown into a vibrant, welcoming community that prides itself on inclusivity and an aspiration to musical excellence. Over the years, we have performed at countless venues, supported local charities, and helped nurture a love of music in young and old alike. Côr Persain has blossomed into a legacy that has touched hundreds of lives. Our members – past and present – are a testament to the enduring power of community and the unifying joy of song.

This year’s annual concert was a fitting tribute to everything Côr Persain stands for: musical passion, community spirit, and a commitment to remembering our roots while embracing the future. We are deeply grateful to Swindon Male Voice Choir, Ysgol Y Bedol, their wonderful leaders, and all who contributed to making the evening such a success.

To every choir member, supporter, and friend who filled Gellimanwydd Chapel with applause and encouragement – thank you. Here’s to the next 25 years of harmony, friendship, and song!

A Musical Feast at the Festival of the Senses

A perfect autumnal afternoon and the glorious backdrop of a picturesque Welsh market town recently provided an ideal setting for the latest performance of Ammanford based ladies’ choir, Côr Persain. The choir was thrilled to receive an invitation to perform on the outdoor stage at Llandeilo Festival of the Senses, a three day event which combines the best of local produce, craft, culture and plenty of good cheer.

Members of the choir assembled at the venue in the early afternoon of Saturday, November 15th, enjoying the festive atmosphere along with the crowds who thronged the town’s historic streets. Dressed in red and black for the occasion, the choir’s appearance blended seamlessly with the cheery pre-Christmas vibe of the festival. Taking to the stage shortly after 2pm, and under the trusty baton of musical director Huw Morgan, Côr Persain launched their performance with a rousing rendition of ‘All That Jazz’, from the musical ‘Chicago’. The choir greatly benefited from the live piano accompaniment of Dr Catherine Morgan and the audience registered warm appreciation for the items which followed, including the perennial favourite, ‘Calon Lan’. The assembled crowd joined in enthusiastically with this and also the lovely Welsh hymn, ‘I Bob Un Sy’n Fyddlon’, while the unique and rousing version of ‘Sosban Fach’ was greeted with great approval. Completing the set with lively arrangements of songs by Bonnie Tyler and Duffy offered an ideal opportunity to celebrate our Welsh musical heritage in such a fitting location.

All too soon, the performance was over and the choir dispersed to enjoy the attractions of the street stalls, entertainment and delicious food on offer. The resounding success of this annual festival is a testament to the hard work and meticulous planning of many local volunteers and Côr Persain were privileged to be able to take part in such a joyous occasion.

JM

A Taste for the Good Life

What could be better on a balmy summer evening than to spend time with excellent company while gently sipping a selection of fine wines? Cor Persain members enjoyed a fantastic evening recently, hosted by the wonderful Judy and expertly co-ordinated by Kathryn. Following up on the highly successful wine tasting evening last year, this event was filled with fun and laughter, as well as some very competitive levels of team rivalry.

The group divided into teams of three, each one invited to test their expertise when tasting six wines – three red and three white. Wines were evaluated on a number of criteria, including country of origin, grape variety and ideal food pairing. We all sniffed and tasted, better to describe each wine’s distinctive notes, including such esoteric aromas as wood smoke, water melon and toast. Even the non drinkers among us were able to join in whole-heartedly and each wine’s provenance was hotly debated. After six keenly fought rounds, the winning team emerged victorious: Leanda, Liz and Carolyn scored a magnificent 16 points out of a possible 30, with a couple more teams close on their heels with 15 points. As winners they were rewarded with a selection of the unpoured remainders of the bottles!

The evening provided a great opportunity to chat, socialise and just get to know other choir members better. During rehearsals, people tend to talk mainly with those who sing in the same section as them, so this was a fine chance for altos to get to know sopranos and vice versa. Huge thanks go to Judy and Kathryn for all their hard work in organising such a brilliantly successful evening for the choir.

Jenny M

A Weekend to Remember

On 26th April 2025, Côr Persain set off for Swindon, teaming up with the fantastic Swindon Male Voice Choir for a truly memorable musical weekend. What made this concert even more special was that every penny raised went straight to Parkinson’s UK, turning our love of singing into real help for people affected by Parkinson’s. Knowing our voices could make a difference gave the whole night a deeper sense of purpose.

The concert took place at St. Paul’s Church, Swindon, and both choirs came together in an incredible show of music and excitement. We were lucky to sing under the inspiring direction of our Musical Director, Huw Morgan. His energy, humour, and musical talent really set the scene, helping us give our best performance and have a great time in the process. We’re also grateful for Dr Catherine Morgan’s beautiful piano playing, which brought each song to life.

Our set list took the audience on a journey through all sorts of styles and moods. From the dramatic “Total Eclipse of the Heart” by Bonnie Tyler to Elgar’s beautiful “The Snow,” and our lively take on the Welsh favourite “Cymru Fach,” every piece was met with big applause. A real standout moment was when both choirs joined forces for “An American Trilogy.” With everyone singing together, St. Paul’s Church rang out with one powerful voice, moving many in the audience and among us singers too. It was a great example of what we can achieve when we come together for something bigger than ourselves.

The Swindon Male Voice Choir gave us a warm welcome and had lovely things to say about our sound and blend. Singing side by side created a rich and exciting atmosphere, both for the crowd and for us on stage. It left us all feeling proud and connected.

However, Côr Persain isn’t just about making music—it’s about friendship too. Our group is built on fun and support, whether we’re rehearsing, performing, or socialising. There’s always laughter and a real sense of togetherness. After the concert, we joined the Swindon choir for a relaxed get-together before heading back for the night. We chatted, swapped stories, and enjoyed some refreshments. Soon enough, an impromptu singalong broke out, filling the room with familiar tunes and plenty of good cheer. It was the perfect end to a day that brought us closer, not just as singers but as friends. As Chris from our choir put it, “I am truly blessed to have a fantastic choir family.”

We’re excited to say that our friendship with the Swindon Male Voice Choir will carry on. They’ll be joining us in Ammanford for our annual concert on October 18th, 2025. We’re already looking forward to another evening filled with music, celebration, and the joy of singing together—making even more unforgettable memories.

AW

Au Revoir

Last Tuesday, we said a heartfelt and warm goodbye to Bethan, who is unfortunately moving away from the area. Although her time with us was brief, her impact was truly significant and deeply felt by every one of us.

Bethan hosted rehearsals with great dedication and enthusiasm, made countless cups of tea with a cheerful smile, contributed meaningfully and creatively to our recordings, and served as an essential and highly valued member of our Soprano section.

Any choir fortunate enough to have her join them next will be truly lucky to benefit from her remarkable talent, generous spirit, and unwavering commitment.

We sincerely wish Bethan the very best in all her future endeavors and every success as she confidently moves forward on her exciting new path.

Diolch yn fawr Bethan.

Côr Persain enjoy a grand day out at the Porthcawl Flower Festival

Saturday June 14 dawned dark and glowering over the town of Ammanford, with rain showers and dark clouds. Despite this, spirits were high as the members of Cor Persain, a local ladies’ choir based at the Miners’ Theatre, embarked on their bus journey to the bustling seaside metropolis of Porthcawl, where they would perform as part of the Flower Festival. ‘We’ve held a concert in Porthcawl fairly recently,’ explained choir member, Brenda Thomas, ‘And we were thrilled to be asked to come back and take part in the town’s prestigious Music and Flower Festival.’

By the time the coach arrived at Porthcawl, to everyone’s delight, the sun had emerged from behind the clouds and there was time for some serious relaxation, which may or may not have involved ice-cream on the beach and shopping, followed by a light lunch. The Festival, celebrating the town’s bicentenary year, took place in the beautiful setting of All Saints’ Church, which was decked for the occasion with a stunning array of floral tributes. In addition, tables were set aside for a special flower arranging workshop, which took place later in the afternoon. Choir member Mary Thomas commented, ‘As well as the wonderful concert, I loved joining in on the flower making.’

Other notable musical performers at the festival included The Bandits, Col Canto and Saxidentals, while the day was rounded off with a magnificent performance of the 1812 Overture by Porthcawl Community Orchestra. Choir members Elaine Maul and Marilyn Yates were warm in their praise for the orchestra. ‘They were absolutely brilliant!’ enthused Elaine, while Marilyn added, ‘I’m so glad we stayed right to the end to listen to them.’

Côr Persain’s own performance, however, was the peak of the excitement for many choir members. Under the expert guidance of choir director, Huw Morgan, and with superb accompaniment on piano from Dr Catherine Morgan, they showed the range of their repertoire while delivering both traditional Welsh favourites such as ‘Calon Lan’, a classical piece, ‘The Snow’, by Edward Elgar, and some great musical show-stoppers from ‘Sister Act’ and ‘Chicago’, which were rapturously received by the appreciative audience. Keeping with the Welsh theme, the choir also delivered a rousing version of the Bonnie Tyler classic, ‘Total Eclipse of the Heart.’ Two highly talented students from Neath College, Charlotte and Estera, also took part, with two songs showcasing their amazing vocals and guitar talent. ‘They moved me to tears with their gorgeous version of Whitney Houston’s ‘I Will Always Love You’, choir member Jenny Morgan said. ‘That song was the highlight of the day for me!’

At the end of a long but highly successful day, the coach departed for home with choir members tired but elated by having the opportunity to perform in such a spectacular venue. ‘I absolutely loved every minute of it!’ said choir member Leanda Sutton. ‘Such a happy experience,’ added Susan Woodman. ‘Thank you Huw and Catherine for your patience and hard work with us.

Onwards and upwards. Whoopie!’ And so say all of us!

JM

Morning of the Porthcawl Music and Flower Festival

Morning of the Porthcawl Music and Flower Festival
By D. Huw Morgan, Musical Director of Côr Persain

It’s the morning of the Porthcawl Music and Flower Festival, and I am really looking forward to it. There’s something truly magical about returning to this vibrant seaside town so soon after our last visit — and once again, Côr Persain is ready to raise the roof.

As I sip my first coffee of the day, I’m already running through the set list in my head. The choir has worked tirelessly over the past few months, and today, it all comes together. Our programme is as varied and colourful as the flowers that give the festival its name — and I’m confident it’s going to be a show to remember.

We’re opening with ‘Calon Lân’ — a piece that never fails to stir the heart. There’s nothing quite like the sound of Welsh voices blending together in harmony on a song so rich in national pride and emotion. Then we’re moving into something a little more refined — Elgar’s beautiful ‘The Snow’. It’s haunting, intricate, and one of those pieces that gives you chills when it’s sung just right. The choir has really grown into it, and I can’t wait to hear it bloom in the acoustic of the venue. But of course, we couldn’t resist a bit of showbiz sparkle. We’re diving headfirst into a high-energy medley from Sister Act and Chicago. Think bold harmonies, big character, and even bigger smiles. These are the kinds of numbers that let the choir’s personality shine — and judging by the cheers last time we performed them, the audience agrees.

And then, in honour of our Welsh roots, and one of our country’s most iconic voices, we’re throwing in a powerhouse version of ‘Total Eclipse of the Heart’. Yes — that Bonnie Tyler classic. The arrangement is dramatic, the voices are strong, and trust me, it’s going to be spectacular.

So here we are — show day. The flowers are blooming, the music is ready, and Côr Persain is poised to make Porthcawl proud. If you’re joining us today, you’re in for a treat. If not — well, keep an ear out. You’ll be hearing more from us soon.

Let the music begin!

– Huw 🎶🌸