Crickhowell gets a Welsh folk music treat
Posted: 12th April 2023The opening night of the 27th Crickhowell Music Festival is a celebration of Welsh folk music at the Clarence Hall on Friday, 28 April.
Angharad Jenkins and Patrick Rimes are well known names in the Welsh folk scene, as founders of the much vaunted group, Calan. Their musical journey together started in their teens, and has continued for almost 15 years. This deep musical connection is reflected in the rapport they have with each other. They are best known as two fiddle players who can storm through a set of tunes, though more recently their sound has matured. The two have started singing and exploring songwriting, ensuring that their live set is full of variety. One moment you will be tapping your feet and itching to dance, and the next you will be taken on a more lyrical journey through their heartfelt songs.
Their growing esteem has been recognized in a recent commission to compose new music for the National Youth Orchestra of Wales’s 75th Anniversary.
Angharad and Patrick have also recently finished recording their debut album, Amrwd, the Welsh for ‘raw’, which will be released in August 2023 on the Tŷ Cerdd label. The programme on 28 April will include a selection of music from the forthcoming album. It encapsulates the sound of strings, voices, foot percussion and keys, and includes arrangements of new and of traditional Welsh music. As the title suggests, their presentation is raw, stripped back, pure and simple.
You will hear old favourites such as Myfanwy, Calon Lan and Tra Bo Dau, which are treated with sensitivity and respect. All their music is arranged by themselves, with an element of freedom and improvisation in their presentation. The duo also compose their own music. You will hear celebratory and joyous fiddle tunes, as well as some international influences from the music they have picked up on their travels over the years.
Don’t miss this extraordinary performance. Tickets at www.crickhowellchoralsociety.org, at Webbs of Crickhowell, or just call 07816 991501.