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