
The Choir has received lots of
letters and e-mails since the release of the CD "Voices
of the Valley" and the Choristers
have looked forward to hearing them read during our regular
Practice's. There have been so many that we have decided to
publish them
on our Web Site so that you can all read what has been said.
If you would like to send us a message please use the e-mail
link above, at the end of
this page or use our "Contacts" page. Unless you request
that your note is not published, we may put a précis
of it on this Notice Board.
Dylan & Elaine Burgess,
Burton-on-Trent.
May I take this opportunity in thanking you for making our Ladies
Night so special. We wish we could have thanked you all individually
but that was not possible. Everyone had a wonderful time and
the choir was the highlight. A lot of ladies had to re-apply
their make up as a few tears were shed. Once again, from the
bottom of our hearts thank you, and we wish you every success
in all that you do.
Yvonne Davies, Ossining,
New York, USA.
Just home in America from my wonderful visit to family in North
Wales. Attending your choir rehearsal was a real treat. Thank
you for being so warm and welcoming and have a wonderful concert
at the top church in Mold in a few weeks.
Michael Cope.
I am a singer in a couple of Community Choirs in North East
England and would like to say how much I enjoyed the recent
TV Programme about your Choir. An inspirational programme !!
Jerry Paul, Trail B.C.
Canada.
Gentlemen, I sent a message recently to
say how much I enjoyed your CD "Voices of the Valley"
and would look for others. Well, I found them and now possess
"Voices of the Valley Encore" and "Voices of
the Valley Memory Lane". I also have Voices of the Valley
Home" on "back order", keep them coming. As you
can see you have a new "fan". Should you ever find
your way clear to tour Western Canada, especially B.C., you
can be sure that I will be front and center at any concert.
Once again congratulations and thank you for sharing your musical
talents.
Ann Jones.
What a wonderful Choir. My grand uncle Tom was a choir member
many years ago and my family still live in the village. Congratulations
on all the CD's they are great.
Glyn Evans, Australia
(ex Ellesmere lad).
I came to see you a couple of times the last time I was over
in 2008 and it was the best part of my trip. You also all signed
my copy of your CD “Home” and it was the best pressie
I got for my 60th or indeed that I've had for a long time. I'm
coming over again in May and June of 2010 and would really like
to see and hear you again. I was wondering what days you practice
and if you still allow people to drop in? Your music is still
a big part of my days so keep up the good work. I was sad to
see Ann has left you; she will be hard to replace. Well that's
it for now, hope to see you soon.
Reply from Allan Smith. We still
rehearse at Acrefair School on Monday and Thursday evenings
from 7pm to 9pm and visitors are always welcome. You can get
details on how to find us by clicking
on this link . We do
occasionally change our rehearsals if we have other commitments
and you can check with us by e-mail whether we are rehearsing
on a particular evening.
Mike J Dunn, Warrington.
I went out after the show in New Brighton and bought a copy
of ‘Voices of the Valley’ and I've got to be honest
with you, it has travelled round the country in my van for the
past two months and I can’t stop listening to it! Thank
you!
Jerry Paul, Trail B.C.
Canada.
I had the good fortune to first hear your great choir on the
"Knowledge Network" T.V. channel in B.C. As a former
Male Voice Choir member to say that I was impressed with your
singing would be a major understatement. Fortunately my wife
gave me a copy of your CD "Voices of the Valley" for
Christmas and I have played it, very loudly, many times since
then. Although I can no longer "sing along" with you,
due to the after effects of the removal of a "singers node"
from my larynx, I do mouth all the words and "direct"
the choir with great enthusiasm and gentlemen, I am not ashamed
to say that you bring tears to my eyes. Needless to say I will
be purchasing other CD's of the "Fron Male Voice Choir"
as circumstances permit and I wish you good fortune and good
singing in the years ahead.
Ann Mather, (Canada).
I want you to know what a comfort your Choir has been to my
husband and me since he was diagnosed with brain cancer in September
2008. While he was recuperating from an operation in October
2008 and again in August 2009 we listened constantly to your
beautiful music. When he passed away in early December, I didn't
hesitate to have your music played at his memorial service while
a slide show of his life unfolded on the screen. First we started
with "Sailing" - a particular favourite, then to "Abide
with Me" and "How Great Thou Art". When I listen
to your music I can picture him sitting by the fireplace reading
with a smile on his face. Thank you for your great music. You
are truly blessed with wonderful voices.
Elizabeth Pulford.
Well you did sing your hearts out and I really enjoyed the evening
at Llandudno. Santa did deliver your new CD and I am listening
to it while I type this - any mistakes I can blame it. We noticed
in the programme you are looking for a new Musical Director,
we are curious to know why? I would love to apply but I would
only want to listen to you all sing to me. Well, I wish you
all a Very Happy New Year for 2010 and look forward to seeing
you all again.
Reply from Allan
Smith. Ann is leaving
us to pursue her singing career - the Choir was taking just
too much time to allow her to do so. We hope however, to join
forces occasionally - starting in Shrewsbury on January 16th.
Del and Allan Wilford, Bournville.
Thanks to everyone for a great concert at St Francis Church,
on 5th December. All the audience enjoyed themselves, and passed
comments about how wonderful it was. As organisers of this concert
(the fifth in Bournville) we are pleased to say that we raised
a considerable amount of money for Foresters Roman Way chosen
charity, the Acorns Childrens Hospice. It will be sad to see
Ann Atkinson depart, we shall miss her. We wish you all a Merry
Christmas and a Happy New Year
Yvonne, Wolverhampton.
This is an emotional message for me to write to you but thought
I would share it with you all. My dear Dad was in Compton Hospice
in July and we visited him every day and we were told we could
take his CD's in to play for him. As days went by we knew he
was slipping away from us and I was there along with my Mom
when indeed he did pass away. How comforting it was to us as
he went to Glory that at that very moment your CD was playing
"Going Home". God Bless you all and every Good Wish
for the future.
Chris & Adrianna Glover.
Another great concert last night, gentlemen! We had a most memorable
evening - the music was sublime and St Francis' is the perfect
venue to hear the choir at its natural best.We would especially
like to thank Ann for the dedication, it was very moving for
us in remembering dear Ma.Best wishes to you all, we know you
have a busy schedule before Christmas.Hoping you all get to
enjoy a peaceful break with family and friends.
John Summerton, Nottingham.
Gentlemen - I am a big fan of male voice choirs particularly
the Fron - I have all your CD s and have been to a couple of
your concerts. Your first three CD s were great - but I am sorry
to say I was disappointed with Memory Lane, if I want to listen
to Vera Lynn I will buy her CD. There doesn't seem to be enough
of the choir and some of the songs featured do not do the choir
justice - sorry.
Reply from Allan
Smith. We are sorry
to hear that you are disappointed with 'Memory Lane', but thank
you for taking the time to write to us. We value your input
and will bear your views in mind if or when we produce a new
one. Best wishes, and perhaps we'll see you at another of our
concerts in the future.
John Tanner.
I always think the latest CD is the best but having now obtained
the fourth, "Memory Lane", all I can say is you astound
me every time by producing more surprises. Keep up the good
work.
Lynne Painter, Chirk.
Have just listened to your new CD - very very good indeed. Your
rendition of "Nearer My God To Thee" brought a lump
to my throat. Well done.
Tim Marshall, Producer, Festival
of Remembrance.
Just a note to thank you for your contribution to the Festival.
I have had nothing but very complementary comments about the
event, both from people in the hall and those watching on TV.
The BBC have told me that the event got an audience appreciation
of 91 out of a 100 one of the highest scores that any
programme can achieve. One viewer left a message at the BBC
switchboard which seems to be typical of many - "This programme
was the best thing I have ever seen on television". Your
contribution to the song was faultless and the reception in
the Hall says it all. Many thanks for adapting to enable us
to make this somewhat ambitious idea work I promise I
was sober when I decided to add Dame Veras recorded voice
to the live performance! I realise that I sometimes have to
push people around in the limited time we have for
rehearsal but am most grateful for your patience. As you know
Dame Vera was absolutely delighted with the end result.
Im also pleased that some of you were also able to take
part in the service, just sorry that it was not possible to
fit you all in due to space. For taking the time to perform
at the Festival I cannot thank you enough. With every good wish
for the future.
Chris, Adrianna and Francesca
Glover.
We would very much like to say how much we enjoyed seeing you
all on the BBC last night at the Festival of Remembrance in
London. The singing was beautiful and emotional. Hayley Westenera
not bad either! Until we meet again, regards to you all.
Jenny and Geoff Rasmussen,
Australia.
We so enjoyed being able to attend your rehearsal in late September,
it was a wonderful experience and the highlight of our trip.
The singing was magnificent, and certainly lifted the spirits!
We have watched the DVD and it was really great to be able to
pick out the various people we met that night as well as to
enjoy the show, which was terrific. We would like to know if
you have recorded that hauntingly beautiful prayer that you
all sang at the end of the rehearsal, we would love to have
a copy of it, it was just so beautiful. Have you thought of
making it your "sign off "piece at the end of your
concerts and CD's? All the very best to you all and keep the
music going!
Reply.
Thank you so much for your comments and
we are so glad that you enjoyed your time with us in practice.
The evening prayer that we sing at the end of rehearsal is based
on an old Welsh Congregational Hymn "Saran". The words;
"Ere we this evening do depart, each to his homestead dear:
To all who on their sickbed lie, we pray o Lord be near"
were composed by Wilfred Jones, one of the Founder Members of
the Choir. Lloyd Edwards the Conductor was very ill with tuberculosis
of the spine in June of 1949 and was in hospital for many months
at the nearby Orthopaedic Hospital in Gobowen. The choristers
were rather concerned and it was sung as a simple prayer for
Lloyd at the end of practice, and has continued to be sung ever
since. Lloyd eventually made a full recovery and continued as
our Conductor until his untimely death in 1970.
Phil Wilkinson, Lincoln.
Just a few lines to thank all the members of your WONDERFUL
CHOIR for allowing me to attend your rehearsal last Monday evening.
I was absolutely buzzing with zest and enthusiasm (and still
am) having heard and witnessed the fantastic vocal harmonies
the Choir demonstrated, particularly when all the sections of
the Choir blended together l look forward to hear and
see you all on the annual forthcoming series of the BBC Remembrance
Programme (this will be very soul wrenching for my Dad, Roosevelt
now 92, as he was one of the first Brits to land on Sword
Beach during the D Day Landings, and he still
refers to Vera Lynn as his Sweetheart).
May l wish you all safe journeys to and from the Albert
Hall but above all Good Health, Generous
Wealth, and Great Happiness at all times. Keep banging
out those harmonies!!!
Marion and Malcolm Lane.
Just a note to say a huge THANK YOU for the song "The Rose"
that you dedicated to my husband Mal and myself for our 39th
anniversary at your concert in Shrewsbury. The request for a
dedication had been made by a friend, unbeknown to us so I don't
know who was more surprised and emotional, her or us, because
she didn't know you sing "The Rose" which happens
to be our favourite song. Mal always sings it at our parties
it brings a tear to everyone's' eyes, not because he sings it
poorly but because he sings it with passion. We loved your Concert
and the "After Concert". Very Best Wishes to you all.
Gareth and Diana Davies,
Harrogate.
We want to tell you how so very much we enjoyed attending your
rehearsal at Achrefair on Thursday 1st of October. It was a
joy to listen to the choir at close quaters and experience the
full blast of all four parts.We would also like to thank members
of the choir for their "croeso cynnes cymraeg". We
were also delighted to see Emrys Roberts again, to see him looking
so well and we wish him well for the future.We are looking forward
to hearing you in Manchester in December. Best wishes for the
future. Yours in song.
Julie Beyler, Mahomet, Illinois
USA.
Have been enjoying reading your comments page on the Internet.
Thanks again for the great rehearsal we attended in August and
for the extra time you took talking to me after rehearsal. It
was a serendipidous find for us that particular Thursday evening
and everyone was most welcoming.
Jim Hilton.
At last I managed to see you live on Saturday at the Pontcysyllte
World Heritage celebrations. Enjoyed every minute in spite of
the weather. Looking forward to the 16th November for your next
offering.
Emrys Roberts, Ruabon.
During my long years as a member of the choir there were occasions
when everything seemed to go according to plan, resulting in
a performance of exceptional quality. It was at such times that
I felt sheer joy and pride in being a member of the choir.As
a retired member - from the other side of the fence as it were
- I want you to know how proud I was with your performance on
the recent Songs of Praise programme. Everything came together
- the storyline, choice of music, staging of the choir magnificent
acoustics of the cathedral and superb singing by the choir -
to remind me of former times. Thank you for giving me so much
pleasure in what I consider to he one of the best episodes that
I have ever watched of this programme.
Merike Aava, Estonia.
Yesterday evening I saw from Estonian national TV documentary
about you Voices of the Valley and it was so warm,
touching, humorous, beautiful etc. You are absolutely brilliant
with your beautiful conductor Ann Atkinson!!!
George Cole, Grantham.
Insufficient words in my vocabulary to describe the emotion
felt when Songs of Praise featured the Choir. Thank you so very
much.
Lois Dean.
I noticed that your new CD was to be released on November 16th
and I planned to order it as a belated gift for my Mum', Phyl
Evans's 87th birthday the day before. Sadly, she died on Monday
of this week following a stroke. Mum's father, Thomas Owen Roberts
was born in Fron in 1879 and although he came to live and work
in Tyldesley, the family spent many happy holidays "back
home". My Mum and Dad spent their honeymoon in Fron in
1947. Mum was a great fan of the Choir and I believe even knew
some of the older members slightly. We came to concerts at the
Bridgewater Hall and Manchester Cathedral and had hoped to bring
her down to Fron this year to coincide with your rehearsal night,
but she had been unwell with chest infections over spring and
early summer, so we never made the trip. I have still ordered
the CD and will think of her pleasure at listening to you sing
whenever I play it. Please say a prayer for her. With sincere
thanks for the joy you gave her.
Tony Robson.
I was reduced to tears today as I watched and listened to the
Fron Male Voice Choir when you appeared on "Songs of Praise".
The performance throughout was magnificent, and would stand
comparison with any other of the great Welsh Male Voice choirs.
Please pass to the Choir members, and their lady conductor,
my very sincere congratulations and thanks, for a wonderful
and most moving performance. As they sang "Abide with Me",
I was transported back to a day in 1950 when, as a leading Soprano
in the Choir of St.Mary's Church in Dolgellau, I stood by the
graveside of a former choir member, Mr.Willy Gwilym at his committal,
and sang that Hymn at the request of his family, solo and unaccompanied.
It has always been one of the defining moments of my life. I
had come to Dolgellau as a wartime evacuee from Birkenhead and
my family had allowed me to remain there after the end of the
war with the kind people with whom I was billeted. Sad to say,
in 1951, when I was 16, they decided that it was time for me
to rejoin my family, which is what happened and the rest is
a long and not a happy story. That is why I was so moved as
the boys gave that wonderful rendition of "Abide with Me".
It will be the Hymn that will be played, (probably from a Fron
CD if I can get one) at my Funeral Service; whenever that may
be. I can pay them no higher compliment than that. Yours Very
Sincerely.
Adrianna and Chris Glover.
Just to say a huge thank you to you all for the fabulous Concert
at the Tower of London! Once again, you have clearly worked
so hard to give us all a magical evening, all we had to do was
watch and enjoy! The setting was pretty good too!
See you all in Bourneville!
Tony Watson, Invercargill,
New Zealand.
For Fathers Day 2009, my daughter has sent to me "Voices
of the Valley". I have a large collection of Welsh Choir
recordings collected over the years..The Fron has appeared on
several cassettes, among other choirs, but this is my first
CD sung by the Fron in its entirety..What a revelation! Magnificent!
From the choice of music to the beauty of the voices, a huge
success and well worth waiting for. I was born in Cannock, Staffs,
too many years ago, and my early life included church choir,
and being not too far from the Wales border and from a coal
mining family, the "Miners Anthem" or Cwm Rhondda
was a regular hymn at church and also in my home. This gave
me an early taste and love for Welsh singing. After emigrating
to NZ in 1965, I was lucky enough to be asked to join a group
of Welsh expats in setting up the "Auckland Welsh Choir"
of mixed voices and was taught enough of the language of Heaven
{phonetically} to be able to complete the repetoire of the choir.
Since retiring, and moving from Auckland, I have enjoyed choir
life at church by teaching our choir to sing one verse, in Welsh,
of "Guide me O thou Great Jehova"...More success to
The Fron..Diolch yn fawr.
Jean Redpath.
My thanks to the Choir and its Director for the friendly and
gracious welcome on Thursday, August 6. Mr and Mrs Beyler and
I had spent a long day in the car to reach Llangollen that evening
and it was all worth while when we discovered the Fron Choir
rehearsal. May you go from strength to strength!
Del and Allan Wilford, Bournville.
We both thoroughly enjoyed the trip to Poland with the Choir
and "Wags". Thanks to everyone for making us so welcome
within the group and a special thank you to Steve Cox for arranging
the tour. We will always have fond memories.
Victoria Larley.
Recently the Fron Choir gave a concert as part of the Chichester
Festivities and afterwards they very kindly visited my Grandfather
Raymond Shone in his nursing home. This was a fantastic gesture
and one which I know he greatly appreciated. Very sadly, Grandpa
died on Friday but I know the choir's visit meant a great deal
to him in his final weeks.With very best wishes.
Brian and Jaqui Ball, Worthing,
West Sussex.
Once again you exceeded all our expectations at your recent
concert in Chichester. We took some friends along and they were
just blown away by the beautiful singing. We thought that you
were very good the first time that we saw you, but even an untrained
ear like mine can tell that you have just improved every time
that we see you. We can't wait for the new CD (in November I
believe) but I suppose reluctantly we must as it isn't even
finished yet. Thank you so much for all the pleasure that you
give to us and everyone that hears you. Keep up the good work.
Anna Powell, Skipton, North
Yorks.
I want to thank all the choir for the concert at Grassington
in Yorkshire last Friday. I thought both the Choir and Ann Atkinson
were wonderful and highly talented. I felt tears down my face
as they sang " Land of my Fathers " with my welsh
father singing in welsh beside me. Thank you.
Betty Jacobs, Denver, Colorado,
USA.
I had the pleasure of hearing your rehearsal on May 18th, 2009.
I was there with a friend Marilyn Fagan and our friends Brian
and June James-Strong from London (June is Welsh originally
from Llanelli). How talented your choir is. Asking us to sit
smack dab in front was just so amazing. We felt the whole experience
was a "pinch-me-can-we-really-be-here" one. Thank
you for allowing us to hear your rehearsal. Best of luck to
you all.
Jacqui & Jim, Australia.
If you are thinking of coming to Australia we would be the first
to come to see you as we have got all your CD's, but if you
dont, keep putting out your wonderful music, we play them
all the time.
Elizabeth Pulford.
So sorry to hear you missed out on the Classical Brit Awards
but Im looking forward to watching the programme. I did
try very hard for extra votes - maybe next time. Best wishes
to every one.
Lorraine Macintyre, Australia.
What joy you are giving the world with your magnificent voices.
My grandaughter bought me your first CD and I have ordered the
other 2 as they have become available. Unfortunately I have'nt
been able to tract down your DVD in West Australia. I am not
even sure that It is available here. Please keep singing and
keep making CD's. We are all anxiosly waiting for your next
album. All the best for the future.
Adrianna, Chris, Catherine
and Francesca Glover.
Hi, just wanted to send lots of love to you all, and good luck
for the Classic Brit Awards! We look forward to the results!
XX
Ian Robinson.
I was shocked to hear about the sudden death of Phil Cowsill
over the weekend. I work for Fedex which delivers and collects
parcels to Phil's workplace. Although only knowing him for a
few years he was one of the nicest men you were ever likely
to meet. We used to have great conversations about cricket and
he would often ask me to keep him up-to-date with the scores!
Whenever he was off on one of his little trips with the Choir
he always had a beaming smile on his face like a Cheshire Cat!
Anyways, I'd just like to pass on my condolences on behalf of
me and my colleagues at Fedex. He was a great guy and will be
sadly missed.
Chris (nee Cowsill).
This is not an easy email to write, but I just want to say a
few words to ALL the Choir. Phil was my big brother and I want
you pass on my thanks to the Choir for giving him so much joy
and enjoyment for the years he was a member. He enjoyed his
life anyway, but the Choir was a big part of his life. He would
either phone me or text me when you were in any part of he country
singing, to tell me what he was up to, the most memorable was
a voice mail when he was at the party following the first Brit
Awards you were nominated for, I couldn't understand a word
he was saying, but knew he was having a good time and had one
or two drinks!!! I was, and still am very very proud of my big
brother Phil and love him very much. Both my Mother and I take
great comfort in knowing that he did enjoy himself and especially
with the Choir. So much love and thank you to ALL of you.
Heather & Bruce Young,
Victoria, Australia.
What absolutely beautiful music. We feel so emotional every
time we listen to your CDs - specially the rendition of "You
Raise Me Up". Some of your CDs are hard to obtain in Australia
though, what can you do about that? We were at a concert of
the Melbourne Welsh Choir last week and I understand that you
know of this choir as Ann and Alan DeJong have worked together.
Tim Moore, Beaumont, Southern
California.
I was born and raised in North Wales but a few years ago moved
to California. My wife who is American and I love listening
to your music. We have your CD's and have persuaded our friends
to purchase them also - there is quite a fan club over here.
Ann and Gordon Mather.
We are Canadians who first saw the Fron Male Choir on our local
PBS TV station. For my husband's birthday I purchased two of
your CD's and I wanted to let you know how much we are enjoying
them. My husband has been through an operation for a brain tumour
and you have no idea how soothing the Choir's music is to us.
We probably play the two CD's once a day and have another one
on order. Please pass along our thanks for such wonderful music.
You have made our days such a joy!
Joan Abley.
Hi. Just wanted to congratulate the choir on yet another WONDERFUL
CD, Voices of the Valley-Home. You just keep making better and
better music. My Welsh is getting better. Even though I don't
know the words in English when I sing along with you. But no
matter, I really love you voices and the music .Thank you all
for many hours of heavenly music. Just waiting, NOT very patiently
for the next CD, please don't let it be too long.
Lisa Wintermute, United States
of America.
While travelling abroad (UK) from the U.S., my parents went
to dinner to celebrate their 50th wedding anniversary. During
dinner, a lovely couple seated near them noticed my parents'
very different dialect and introduced themselves. The gracious
couple invited my parents to have tea with them. During their
brief visit the following day, their new-found friend said that
he wanted to play a very special CD for them. When my parents
heard the beautiful vocal music, they couldn't believe what
they were hearing. It was "Unchained Melody," a very
special song indeed to my parents.....it was "their song"
from their courtship. Not only that, but my mom's maiden name
is Welsh, so it brought on an even more special meaning to them.
My parents purchased, "The Voices of The Valley Home"
while in the UK and listen to the beautiful voices and songs
every day. When I visited my parents who are back from the UK,
they played some of the inspirational songs for me, and I couldn't
stop from tearing up....they were sooooooooooooooo deeply touching
and beautiful for the soul. I would love to purchase "Voices
of The Valley" with "Unchained Melody" on it.
How can I do that from the U.S.?
Reply from Allan
Smith. Thanks for your
e-mail and we are so pleased to know you're enjoying our CD.
For the future, we are working hard on getting all three albums
released in the USA and Canada, but for now, they can be bought
over the Internet through Amazon.co.uk
and shipped to the USA. Not all merchants ship outside the European
Union because of customs rules but if you follow the links for
"new and used" you will find ones that do and the
rates for shipping to the US.
Eve Barrett, Llangollen.
Thank you for being so kind for allowing me to photograph Ann
and the Choir. I came first with my photograph in the Urdd.
Julie Williams, Froncysyllte.
(Royal Visit Co-ordinator).
May I take this opportunity to thank Ann, Owen and all the members
of the Choir for your contribution to the successful day on
Monday the 2nd of March and the visit by HRH the Prince of Wales.
I have received a letter from the Palace saying how much the
Prince enjoyed the day. The feedback from the village has been
very positive and I am sure the day will be a talking point
for some time to come. Your presence certainly added to the
wonderful atmosphere.
Myra D Easton, Australia.
I am the conductor of an all male voice choir in Bunbury in
Western Australia. Recently one of our members returned from
the UK with one of your CDs. I was thrilled listening to it.
Your choice of repertoire and moods were just beautiful to listen
to, and we especially liked your arrangement of "Sailing".
Gill Britten.
Thank you all for a fantastic concert in Wrexham last night.
I cant tell you how much better it sounds when youre
at front of the stage.
Jeff.
Following your appearance on TV with Rolf Harris your 'Home'
CD was put on my Christmas list. I was so enhralled with it
that my wife has purchased the 'Voices of the Valley' and the
'Encore' CD's as well, so that I don't wear out the first one
too quick. Thank you for so many hours of beautiful music.
Scott E Stringer, United
States of America.
"For All Our Soldiers In Iraq". I love music and have
heard many great renditions of the song "Abide With Me",
yours is simply the most moving pieces I have ever heard in
my life. I fear for all our soldiers everywhere and should death
knock at their door I desire with much emotion that this song
to be in their hearts if that time comes. I think your Choir
is incredible; The Mormon Tabernacle Choir has been my favourite
for many years and now yours.
Marjorie Richardson, Yorkshire.
My husband and I spend many wonderful hours listening to the
Choir and especially enjoyed your latest one featuring Will
Martin singing "Home". My husband Bill was born near
Wrexham and left to live in Yorkshire to further his career
many moons ago but still has connections and has some family
connection with Owen Roberts.
Debbie Reynolds, New South
Wales, Australia.
I just wanted to add my appreciation for the music the choir
produces. I come from the Rhondda Valley, and now live in Australia,
and came by the first Voices of the Valley CD purely by chance.
Once I heard those fantastic voices I was hooked, there is nothing
that can top a Welsh MVC singing "Land of my Fathers"
it sent shivers down my spine. I also managed to get "Encore",
and "Home" as well, although I had to go to a UK website
for those and get them sent to me in Australia, well worth every
penny. I have even managed to convert some of my Aussie colleagues
to fans. I spend a fair amount of time in the car, I live about
an hour away from my work, so it's great to be driving down
the freeway, with the strident tones of "Battle Hymn of
the Republic" playing. I am torn between a favourite, of
"Wonderful World" or "Suo Gan" but all the
songs are just wonderful.. I bought my Father the set of CD's
for Christmas, so he is also keeping a welcome in the hills,
but is slightly closer to you as he lives in Bristol, UK. I
will keep visiting the website and try and coincide my visits
to the UK with one of your concert tours and then my world will
be truly complete.. Keep up the fantastic work.... I did manage
to settle in the right state for my lineage... new south Wales
(lol).
Keith Williams, Petersfield,
Hants.
Ive just been given and am now playing the Choirs
Voices of the Valley - Home CD with Imagine
to join another Fron CD commencing with Sailing.
Delightful indeed, pure hiraeth. Born in Esclusham Above, (The
Wern), Dad and his family come from the Rhos, Mum and family
from Pentrecelyn, Ruthin. My wife and I come home, from our
Hampshire base, to Ruthin three or four times each year. Ive
just realised that we might, if its permissible, come
along to a rehearsal or a local concert when we are next up.
Would you kindly let me know any convenient 2009 dates and whether
we might come along?
Reply from Allan
Smith. Thanks for your
mail and we are pleased to know you're enjoying our CDs. We
are very proud of all three! You'd be very welcome at any of
our rehearsals. We practise on Monday & Thursday nights
from 7pm to 9pm at Acrefair CP School - directions are on our
website www.fronchoir.com and choose "Visit Us" from
the menu. I recommend you contact us in advance just to make
sure we are indeed rehearsing on that date.Looking forward to
seeing you soon.
Denise Petch, British Columbia,
Canada.
Found the choir on Knowledge Network and was completely blown
away!
B. Wooding.
I really enjoyed the DVD as well as the CD. I bought them for
my family and friends for Christmas and sent them to my family
in Australia. My favourite was "The Rose", I played
it 'till I wore it out. Keep it up, can't wait for the next
one to come out.
Ken & Barbara Legg, Waterlooville,
Hampshire.
We have just enjoyed watching the DVD "Voices of the Valley
- Live", which brought back fond memories of our visit
to North Wales in July 2008. Together with some of our friends
and neighbours (Susan Harris, Tony & Janet Saunders, Ron
& Maureen Sheppard, Dave & Elaine Robertson) we stayed
at Trevor Hall for a few nights, and the undisputed highlight
of our trip was our Monday evening visit just down the road
to Acrefair School to sit in on the choir's rehearsal. We were
all made to feel so very welcome by all of you, and especially
by David and Ann, and felt privileged to witness at first hand
all the hard work that goes on behind the scenes before you
go on stage or into the recording studio. The sight of so many
familiar faces made the DVD so much more enjoyable - including
the documentary as well as the concert in St Jude's Church.
Thank you, all.
Les Lacey, Rogerstone, South
Wales.
I had your C.D. as a Christmas present and when I played it
I broke down in tears at the music and the pleasure that it
gave me. The complete compilation and musical direction was
fantastic. As well as being almost blind I can hardly walk so
the music to me brings me so much pleasure. God bless you all,
and have a happy New Year.
John Tinkler, Northumberland.
Just a note to say that the piece "Green Green Grass of
Home" is just what a Male Voice Choir should sound like.
Really great! More of the same please.
Ian Edwards, New Zealand.
We have just recieved your CD (Home) may I say it brings back
memories of home (Ewloe). We now live in Opotiki, Bay of Plenty,
New Zealand, but you cannot beat a good Welsh choir no matter
where in the world you live.
Liz Lazenby, Victoria, B.C.
Canada.
I now very happily have the three discs
of the Fron Choir...Wonderful music...played over Christmas...I
do hope you gentlemen will consider making a Christmas CD.....all
the old favourites like Silent night...and many more.....if
you all put your Santa hats on it would be great...There are
so many great songs out there...the old war songs too would
be nice.....If you ever come to Victoria on the west coast of
Canada...I'll be first in line to see you.....Keep up the good
work lads...
Tim Dykes, Northallerton,
North Yorkshire.
Thank you for such a brilliant CD and the "Live" DVD
is just outstanding. I was glad to see your partnership with
The Salvation Army as I am an Officer in The S.A. Keep up the
good work and keep singing, you bring a lot of joy to a lot
of people.
Elizabeth Pulford, Chester.
The new CD is super, I had it for Christmas. Calon Lan with
Cerys brought tears to my eyes as does a lot af your songs.
I am originally from Pembrokeshire, cannot speak welsh but I
feel I understand it. Thank You So Much.
Hector Macleod.
I've just being listening to the CD "Home" over and
over again - its superb. Not sure now whether Calon Lan has
replaced Myfanwy as my all time favourite. Thanks for sharing
your wonderful Welsh voices. I'm Scottish - it must be the Celtic
blood that makes me so at home with the wonderful Welsh singing.
Wishing you a very successful 2009.
Alan Martin
I love listening to the Fron Male Voice Choir and I would love
them to sing "You Are My Sunshine" on the next CD.
Jenny Rasmussen.
Greetings from Australia and wishing you all a very Happy Christmas.
A short note to let you know the endless pleasure I get from
your 3 CD's. I hope you will produce some more and include the
hymn "God be with you till we meet again !"
Sue Davenport, Wonga Beach,
Far North Qeensland, Australia.
Just received "Home" from my Mum in Oswestry. It's
great. I love "Two Little Boys" it brought Tears to
my eyes and made me quite home sick as it's 3 days 'till Christmas.
I have always loved Rolf from about 4 years old when "Boys"
was released. My son who is six now likes it too. Another great
triumph for the choir. Hopefully this time next year I will
be in Oswestry and will be able to catch a Christmas Concert
if you are doing one with Porthywean Band just a little hint
from an x member. Love all 3 CD's as it helps keep home real
for me to listen to them. Have a very Merry Christmas.
Betty Windmill.
I'm listening to "Encore" at the moment - never tire
of hearing the songs and have just about worn out both CDs.
I must look out for "Home" - don't get to the shops
all that often and then most times forget!!!!! Yes, I'm 82,
so no wonder!!!!! I love the hymns - have been in the Church
all my life and just love Church music, well the older style
I mean, not the new stuff that has no rhythm in it. Also love
"The Rhythm of Life" - a good finish to a great CD.
Hope you don't mind my raving on but I do love your work. This
is mainly to wish you all The Compliments of the Season and
a Happy and Healthy and Musically Productive New Year.
Fiona Jerman, Help the Aged.
The Choir were wonderful - I hadn't heard them live before-
and in Ann's absence Dave did a grand job carrying the concert
- thank you very much Dave. Alex stepped up on the piano and
Owen did a grand job running back and forth between the organ
and the piano! You'll be delighted to hear we raised nearly
£5000 for isolated, vulnerable older people in the community
and that was no doubt down to the Choir's presence. Help the
Aged would be DELIGHTED if the choir would be able to perform
for us in Manchester Cathedral again next year. Thank you all
once again.
Tony Farmer, Surrey.
I just wanted to say thank you so much for dedicating 'How Great
Thou Art' to my Mother and the memory of my Dad - my Mum was
really moved by it and it brought tears to both our eyes. I
know that my Dad would have loved your music. Your concert was
fantastic and if that was with members missing, I cannot wait
to hear the full choir at your St Davids Day Concert in Wrexham.
It was also special to hear "Land Of My Fathers" which
I requested to Richard on the night. Please extend both mine
and Mother's thanks to the choir for the dedication and we both
look forward to seeing you in March. Kindest regards and continued
success.
Jackie Llewis.
Yet another great Saturday lunch-time listening to your wonderful
singing. I hope your success continues. Can't wait for your
next CD.
Louise Aubrey, Event Organiser,
Nightingale House Hospice, Wrexham.
I am writing to thank you all so much for your fabulous performance
at the Nightingale House Hospice "Celebration of
Christmas" concert at Chester Cathedral on 11th December,
2008. The feedback we have had from members of the audience
has been tremendous and we cannot thank you enough for your
support of the Hospice. Please pass on my thanks to Ann Atkinson,
accompanists Caroline Tate-Lovery and Alex Hughes, and every
single member of the Choir. Happy Christmas and best wishes
for a successful 2009.
Gilmour Pemberton.
What an amazing Concert and boost to Nightingale House Hospice
funds after your wonderful efforts at Chester Cathedral on Thursday
night. Every member of the Choir deserves a Knighthood !! We
wish you and yours a Happy Christmas and Peaceful New Year.
Del & Allan Wilford,
Bournville, Birmingham.
A splendid concert at St Francis Church, Bournville, on the
6th of December. Although the Choir were depleted in numbers
due to illness, they performed admirably with Ann conducting
and singing with her usual verve. As organisers of the Concert
for the Foresters Roman Way, it was very pleasing to get such
lovely comments from the audience after the show and to have
raised a considerable amount of money for the Acorns Childrens
Hospice. Wishing everyone a very Merry Christmas and a happy
New Year.
Jane Jennings
Just a quick note to say how much I enjoyed the concert at Chester
Cathedral last night. What a great way to start the festive
period! Your singing made me cry.....in a good way, and along
with Aled, Anne, Kings School and Pheonix Brass I had the most
wonderful evening. As a single mother of 12 year old twins,
I do not get to go out too often, so this was such a treat.
Wishing you all a very merry Christmas.
Catherine and Francesca Glover.
We just wanted to write to say thank you for such a lovely evening
that we had last night in Bournville. All your songs sounded
beautiful in the church- especially 'The Rhythm Of Life'! It
was very kind of you to do the request for us and we did enjoy
it. It was even better because it was our first time seeing
you in concert. We will both now have all your songs in our
heads for weeks now!
Thank you once again and have a lovely Christmas.
Derek Lammers-Wood.
I have just added your third album to my collection. Congratulations
and thank you for yet another sublime, relaxing album. I work
for the emergency services and listening to your albums in my
work response car is the perfect way to relax after stressful
calls. Listening to HOME, I began to imagine how an album of
Christmas songs and Carols would sound given the Fron treatment.
Also versions of other songs which I can imagine would sound
fantastic sung by your Choir, in particular two of my favourites,
the Hollies - "He Ain't Heavy" and the Mike and Mechanics
- "Living Years". Please keep up the good work and
thank you.
Tony Farmer, Surrey.
Hi, I am attending my first Fron Concert this Saturday in Bournville
and travelling up from Surrey with my mother who was 80 last
month. We are both really looking forward to the concert. I
have all three of your CD's and listen to one most days. My
current favourite tracks are Myfanwy and Sailing By which remind
me of my father who passed away nearly 30 years ago. He was
a very proud Welshman from Dowlais nr Merthyr Tydfil and would
have loved your music. I would like to ask if you could dedicate
a song to my mum Barbara Farmer and the memory of my dad George
at the concert on Saturday. If posible How Great Thou Art (a
favourite of my mum) or All Through the Night. I appreciate
this may not be possible as they may not be part of your current
repetoire. If not maybe a song of your choice. We also have
tickets for your St Davids Day Concert in Wrexham. Keep on recording
the fantastic music! Kindest Regards.
Lucas de Jong, (MD Melbourne
Welsh Male Choir) Australia.
In the 1990's Ann Atkinson and I worked together in some operas
in London and Wales before I moved back to Australia. Through
a curious coincidence I have now taken a position as the MD
for the Melbourne Welsh Male Choir and have recently returned
from London after participating in the Massed Choirs Concert
at the Albert Hall under the baton of Hayden James. I have discovered
the wonderful recordings of the Fron Choir and in doing so I
have also discovered that Ann is your MD. The Melbourne Welsh
and I spent last weekend in workshop and concert with Alwyn
Humphreys, so my head is full of Welsh Choir repertoire. Our
gentlemen are quite impressed with the CDs that the Fron Choir
have produced so I send you compliments from them all.
Pat Jacobs, Canada.
I am English but have lived in British Columbia, Canada for
30 years, I heard your choir singing on our Knowledge Network
T.V, and I tracked down your CD "Voices of the Valley"
via Amazon.com and purchased a copy of it. Whilst sitting and
enjoying your beautiful CD, I thought there is no doubt only
the Welsh can produce voices like that, then doubt set in and
I looked at the CD to make sure they were Welsh singers, other
than the write up on Ann Atkinson there is no mention of where
the singers come from. With voices like that you must be very
well known in the U.K. and Europe and where you come from is
common knowledge, but the rest of the world might not know.
When you next make a description for a CD do you think you could
say (if I am right) that you are from Wales. Wales should get
the credit for producing those wonderful voices.
Reply from Allan Smith.
Thank you for taking the time to write
to us, and for your kind words and comments. We are indeed from
North Wales - in the beautiful Vale of Llangollen. The choir
was formed in a small village called Froncysyllte in 1947 (pronounced
Vron-cuss-ulth tay. There is no letter V in the Welsh alphabet
and the V sound is written as a single F),
but as our full name is rather difficult to pronounce correctly
we are usually known as the Fron Choir (Vron Choir). You are
quite right that our CD information does not include much in
the way of our geographical location and you have highlighted
an issue that we can address in the future.
J. Beachus, Calne,Wiltshire.
The new CD has brought my family much pleasure. My grandmother
was from the village and her youngest brother Idris Jones (bass)
sang with your choir for many years. I recently had the privilege
to gift the CD to an elderly lady I visit in the course of my
work, also from Fron. We sat and listened to it together and
it made us both weep, the beauty of your voices was a joy.
Thank you for keeping this lovely traditional music alive.
Chris O'Connell
Thank you for some of the most beautiful music I have heard
- my daughter gave me 2 CDs of your music as a gift and they
must almost be worn out! as I listen to one of them at least
once a day! My favourite piece is Ar Lan y Mor - such a moving
song. Any chance of a concert in High Wycombe Reading Oxford
area? Best wishes and keep singing.
Keith Reading
I have just bought your third album, and , as with the previous
ones, is very enjoyable. May I make just one comment please,
Men of Harlech is,as I remember my late father stating, the
regimental march of the Welsh Guards. He served in the regiment
during World War 2. That recording would be even better I feel,
if the Welsh Guards Band had accompanied the singing of the
song on the C.D. Would that have been possible, or are they
abroad in Iraq, or somewhere? I know the area around Froncysyllte
fairly well, as my late father was the vicar of Pen-y Cae until
his retirement in the early eighties.I have walked over the
aqueduct a number of times, and this year, walked up to Castell
Dinas Bran again! Keep up the good work everyone.
Reply from Allan
Smith. Thanks for taking
the time to write to us, and we're happy to hear you like the
third CD. Yes, it would have been nice to have the Welsh Guards
with us and I'll pass on your comment to our Producer - who
generally decides these things. If you're ever around the area,
please call in to one of our rehearsals at Acrefair School -
Mondays & Thursdays - where you'll be made very welcome.
Adrianna and Chris Glover.
Hi, just wanted to wish you all the very best of luck with the
new Album! We are so looking forward to the Concert in Bourneville,
it really is the most wonderful venue! My two youngest daughters,
Catherine and Francesca will be joining us for the evening,
this will be their first live performance of your wonderful
Choir, they will be so excited! Again, our very best wishes
to you all.
Nora and Dick Wilson, Ireland.
I really love this C.D. and I have just discovered that you
have 2 more C.D's so I am off to the Record Shop to buy or order
them. Do you ever do concerts in Ireland ? I would travel to
see the Choir and so would my husband. Keep up the good work
Sue Brodie.
I very much hope that the Choir and Rolf got as much out of
today as the spectators who attended the "Silence in the
Square". Those who gathered in Trafalgar Square were clearly
very moved by the proceedings and particularly delighted to
see and hear from Rolf, who is obviously loved by the public
everywhere. The performances by the Choir ensured there was
not a "dry eye" in the Square - you are truly wonderful.
Julie Preston, Llanfairtalhaiarn.
What a wonderful CD, even better because it is our
bridge at Llanfairtalhaiarn that you are crossing! I am particularly
interested because I live on School Lane where a photograph
in the little booklet has been used.
John Butters
Congratulations to all members of the choir for their magnificent
achievements over the years. Particular congratulations to the
'Father' of the choir, as I discovered, when I saw him on the
the BBC Breakfast programme last week. I recognised Dennis immediately
and fifty years rolled away for me. I lived in Trevor in the
late fifties and worked with Dennis at the then major chemical
complex in Ruabon. I was a chemical engineer there and Dennis
a mechanical engineer, so we had a lot in common though not
in 'serious' singing I must add. I got my singing at Saturday
night visits to the work's Social Club though as I remember,
Rhos Choir members were strong on the ground there too. Again,
heartfelt thanks to you all for the pleasure you have given
to so many people all over the world. And Dennis, it was great
to see you again (if not in the flesh) and looking so well after
all these years.
Betty Windmill, Melbourne,
Australia.
You can't imagine what pleasure your CDs give me - I have "Encore"
playing at the moment whilst I work on the computer and other
things. I have that one and also "Voices of the Valley",
but must look for more at my local ABC shop. I haven't read
any of the other messages sent to you so don't know what others
write - I just wanted to convey to all your Members how much
I love listening to the Fron Choir. I love to sing along with
you too but it's not a sound you would like to hear!!!!! LOL.
I live in a Retirement Village and we have a Male Choir here
which gives entertainment every now and then - the Residents
love it.
Ken Dewerson, Kelowna.BC
Canada.
Just watched your documentary on TV - what a great show. I am
an Englishman living in Canada and my Mothers maiden name is
Jones so I must have some Welsh blood in me. Must buy your CDs.
Thanks.
Brian and Jaqui Ball, Worthing,
West Sussex, England.
We have just watched the new DVD from St Jude's in London. How
we wish we had been there! So many of our favourite Fron songs.
We didn't know the story behind 'Softly when I Leave You'. Brian
says thanks for 'Glory, Glory Hallelujah', especially as he
was singing 'When The Spurs Go Marching On' at the end. Jaqui
says thanks for 'How Great Thou Art' and for the 'Welsh Lullaby'
which we will be playing for our new Welsh grandson, James Ellis
Ball, born in Cardiff in September. Looking out for the new
CD next week - can't wait to hear Calon Lan.
Marilyn, Canada.
I am a transplanted "South" Wales girl and share your
passion for male voice choirs (Welsh of course). When I'm feeling
homesick I put on a Welsh MVC CD sit back and listen to that
"awesome sound" that only comes from Wales (usually
I have a little cry!!). I was back in Wales in May this year
(after a 20 year absence) and was hoping to attend some MVC
concerts, unfortunately though there was nothing on at that
time. Many moons ago (more than I care to remember!) I sang
with the Duffryn School Choir and watching your choir traveling
by coach to venues and competitions on the television brought
back many very happy memories. May I take this opportunity to
wish your choir continuing success in the future.
Liz Lazenby, Victoria, B.C.
Canada.
I just received two CDs from my cousin in the UK... you have
made my day.... this oldie is very very happy to hear your beautiful
voices.... I take them out in my car and turn up the boom boom
box... never to old to do that...God Bless you all for making
an ex brit shed a few tears... I do hope you will come you to
beautiful Vancouver Island one day and sing for us in Victoria
the capital...... Keep the music coming...
Sally McPherson, Ontario,
Canada.
I am a big fan of your Choir, originally from N Wales and now
living in Canada. I will be visiting my Mother for Christmas
(all of Dec) and was wondering if you would be performing anywhere
close to Penrhyn Bay (where my Mother lives and as she is in
her 90's, traveling too far at night is difficult). Do you have
any plans to visit Canada in the future as I do hope I will
be able to see one of your performances live?
Ben Davies, Vancouver Island,
B.C. Canada.
Im writing from Vancouver Island, British Columbia, Canada
and just wanted to say that I was over at my folks house
the other night and watched a program called the Worlds
Oldest Boy Band which highlighted the choir. We thoroughly enjoyed
the story and the songs. My parents are from South Wales and
Ive visited the country many times, the last time we were
near Llangollen for a few days. If you are ever planning a tour
to Western Canada, please let us know as I can guarantee a sellout
in my town of Comox. All the best to the lads and keep the CDs
coming!
Mary Mack, Red Deer, Alberta,
Canada.
I have just spent a glorious hour listening to your documentary
on the Knowledge Network. Any chance of your group considering
a visit to Canada in the near future, if so, please include
western Canada. I have many happy memories of listening to the
lads from Wales singing at rugby games in Scotland. Wishing
you every success in the future.
Lizzy Lazenby, Victoria.
B.C. Canada.
Saw you all on the telly last night...fine looking bunch you
are....lovely lovely voices...you make us ex brits really homesick....got
two other ex brits here that are wanting your music...keep up
the good work....keep them thar voices fine tuned....wonder
if we will ever see you here in Victoria on the west coast of
Canada ?
Christina Dutkowski, British
Columbia, Canada.
My name is Christina and my husband and myself live in British
Columbia Canada. This evening we watch a wonderful documentary
about your fantastic male singers on PBS. Your music, out look
on life and wonderful energy was such an inspiration. I will
for sure be purchasing your music and telling other about it.
I truly think the Lord has given all of you a wonderful talent
and a way of making people happy. Keep up the amazing work,
I will look forward to future compilations and hope one day
your group can come to Canada.
Yvonne Topf, Kelowna. B.C.
Canada.
Just saw the program about your choir on TV. Wow! If you ever
plan a tour of Western USA and Canada we would be interested.
We are 500 km from Vancouver.
John & Kathleen, Parksville,
B.C. Canada.
We had a chance to watch your TV show; "World's Oldest
Boy Band" here on Vancouver Island this evening. It was
really enjoyable and being a singer myself, I can appreciate
the commitment that goes into your ongoing musical program.
You have all come a long way since we met up with you in Edmonton,
Alberta back in the early 1980's when you were doing a tour
of Western Canada. I'm still singing on this side of the world,
but only in my quartet. Gave up the (I know this is probably
a dirty word?); "barbershop" chorus last year!! With
all best wishes for the future.
Peter Williams, Whitchurch,
Shropshire.
On behalf or The Rotary Club of Whitchurch can I say "Diolch
yn fawr iawn" to all choir members, Ann, Owen, Caroline
and Alex. The evening was a great success and those who missed
it were the losers. I trust that everyone in the Fron managed
to catch the coach home, as some of my rotary friends and the
members of the choir were last seen in the pub enjoying a second
concert! Once again "Diolch yn fawr" for giving Whitchurch
a memorable evening.
Bill & Hazel Patton,
Solihull.
I am writing to thank you for the warm welcome extended to my
wife and myself last week when we visited your choir practice.
It was our first ever visit to such on occasion and we learned
a little of the effort and attention to detail that is needed
to bring out the best in the music. We felt very privileged
to be invited to the front at the end of the evening to be sung
to (or was it sung "at"?) by the choir. It has given
us a very memorable experience we shall always treasure. With
many thanks and best wishes to all.
Sue & John Connerty,
Walking With Giants Foundation
We write to say a very big heartfelt thank you for the donation
of £545 raised during your recent concert. This is very
generous and we are extremely grateful to all the people who
have kindly supported the "Walking With Giants Foundation".
The £545 will help towards financing travel and accomodation
costs for MOPDH families from the UK and other parts of the
world to attend the 1st WWGF annual convention, which is being
held here in Liverpool in October 2008, and will allow individuals
and families affected by MOPDH to meet and thereby help to alleviate
the isolation that MOPDH brings. Click
to see the "Certificate of Appreciation"
Ann Able, Blackburn.
I don't know if you will remember me but we met the Choir in
Cyprus when we stayed at the same hotel and again at the concert
in Preston. I know it's a bit late but I wanted to thank the
Choir for the wonderful singing that we heard at that concert,
both during the event and afterwards in the bar. It was fantastic
to know that the guys love their singing so much that they put
all their enthusiasm into it even when they don't have an audience.
One of the "lads" said you were about to go back into
the recording studio to record your third CD. I hope everything
went OK and I look forward to it coming into the shops. I see
you are in Manchester Cathedral in December and hope to be there
and to say hello.
Glenis & Peter Harris,
Christchurch, New Zealand.
Your wonderful CD was sent to us by my one remaining cousin
in England. My grandmother was Welsh (from Neath) and we always
make a point of attending any Welsh Choir concert here in Christchurch,
New Zealand. We have had a number of visits from Morriston,
Llanelli, Aran and Pendyrus. We realise it is a long way, but
any chance of an Australasian visit??
Reply from Allan
Smith. We
are not discounting an Antipodean visit, but the Choir is currently
planning a tour of Canada and the USA. Three of us did in fact
visit Australia late last year to promote the CD (Brisbane,
Melbourne & Sydney) and managed to get it to Number One
in the Classical Charts for a week or two, so who knows what
might come from that?
Richard and Celia Mackay,
Kilworth House Hotel
We thought the concert on Saturday was just perfect and will
long be remembered by all who were lucky enough to get a ticket.
I have had wonderful feedback from many of the audience all
asking if we can do it again sometime - let's hope so! Please
pass on our sincere thanks to Ann and the whole Choir for providing
a most memorable evening at Kilworth. The singing in the log
cabin after the show will always be a personal memory for us
each time we sit in there. Thank you once again and we do hope
that we can repeat the experience soon.
Elizabeth and Glyn Hesketh
Chairman, all members of the committee
and every chorister of the Fron Choir. On behalf of our son
Jon Hesketh and Mel Danidge, we would like to thank you all,
for allowing us to be able to sell tickets (50) for the "Walking
with Giants" charity for our granddaughter, and her three
friends in the UK, and part of the 100 in the world. £500
was made, plus £100 donations to make a grand figure of
£600. Special thanks to Ann and Alwena for their concern
for her. Finn is now in New York, Detroit to see the Professor
of Genetics.
Mike and Dianna Bevis.
I am writing to say how much we enjoyed the concert given by
the Choir at the Royal Festival Hall in May. We had a lovely
weekend in London but the "icing on the cake" was
the surprise we had at the concert when we heard the choir sing
"The Rose" for us on our Wedding Anniversary.We wish
to thank members of the choir who kindly signed our programme
for us and for the memorable evening and the wonderful singing
of the Choir.Good luck to you all and we look forward to buying
your next CD.
Mr Nigel Kiely, Consultant
Orthopaedic Surgeon,
Robert Jones and Agnes Hunt Orthopaedic Hospital, Gobowen.
I would like to thank the Choir for a splendid evening last
Friday at Llay. We all had a most enjoyable night and raised
a good sum for our appeal. The money will go towards our new
centre for the treatment and research of muscle disorders in
children, and so will be of great benefit.
Allen & Steve
I was lucky enough to be at your concert at the Birmingham Symphony
Hall in May and what a fantastic place to hear such wonderful
voices. I and my partner (who was not a fan 'til he went) really
enjoyed the whole concert and it was a shame when the concert
ended. I have got both CDs and look forward to the film!!! All
the best in the future hope to see you soon.
Betty & Arnold Jones
(nain Matthew)
This is to congratulate you on the tour just finished. Thank
you for the dedication in the concert at Preston it was a complete
surprise. We want to thank the choir for the welcome when we
travel to concerts with you. We really feel proud to be part
of your success. That first choir in 1947 would have never have
believed the choir would still be going 60 year later and known
throughout the world. We want to wish you another excellent
third CD and hope we can still travel to some of your concerts.
Diolch yn fawr.
Anna Palazon, Director, Help
the Aged in Wales.
I write to you to thank you for your friendships and fund-raising
support for Help the Aged over the last year. Your efforts have
not only helped raise funds for our Isolation Campaign, but
also awareness of Help the Aged and the work undertaken by our
charity. My colleagues Iwan Rhys Roberts and Glenys Hughes-Jones,
who have had the privilege of meeting the Choir and the Ladies
Committee, were both very enthused by the warm welcome you extended
to them at the launch of your CD, 'Voices of the Valley
Encore' in Llangollen earlier this year, and also at your recent
concert in the "Stiwt", Rhosllannerchrugog. Your donation
of £400 from the Choir's own coffers to top up the amount
raised from the sale of the Fron Male Voice Choir's calendar
was also very generous, and I'd like to thank you very much
for this kind gesture. I'd like to take this opportunity to
wish you and the Froncysyllte Male voice Choir all the very
best with your future endeavours, and hope that our paths will
cross again.
Sandra Jones.
We were given tickets to see the Fron Choir in Preston on the
24th of May and as we used to live near Wrexham it was like
going home. It was great seeing and listening to their music.
Will Martin singing with them was great as we have never heard
or seen him before and the Brass Band were excellent. Looking
forward to the new CD of the Choir being released - can't wait.
Margaret Fowler.
Thank you for a great night on Sunday at the Tower Hotel, London
Bridge. You made our weekend.
Yvonne Hardy
Just wanted to thank Ann Atkinson and the members of the Fron
Choir for such a memorable evening at the Royal Festival Hall
in London yesterday. The concert was absolutely wonderful and
I was brought to tears with the Choirs rendition of 'Bring Him
Home', one of my favourite songs - one which I hope will be
included in the next album. It was wonderful to have the Fron
visit London at last as when I saw them in Windsor last year
we weren't sure if we would have the pleasure of welcoming them
to London. Thank goodness the opportunity arose and what a wonderful
evening was had by everyone who attended. It certainly was a
memorable evening and I sincerely hope that the Choir will be
able to fit in another visit to London in the not too distant
future. I really can't thank you enough for the enjoyment Ann
and the Choir bring to their many fans. Can't wait for the next
album.
Vaughan Pendred, Oxted, Surrey.
Just a quick note to thank you and the Choir for a thoroughly
enjoyable performance at the Royal Festival Hall last night.
Jenny Flude and family, Stafford.
On behalf of myself and my family I would like to thank you
so much for the beautiful tribute you gave us on Friday night
at the Birmingham Symphony Hall. It was more than we could ever
have expected and it truly did make our night. We all had a
tear in our eyes and my Dad was so thrilled that he hasn't stopped
talking about it! We thoroughly enjoyed the concert despite
the fact that we were up in the gods! I'm sure it won't be the
last time we come and see you perform. Thank you so much once
again for a truly wonderful evening and good luck with the rest
of your tour. x x x.
Paul Hanmer, Chairman "Stiwt
Friend's".
As Chairman of the "Cyfeillion y Stiwt Friends" I
write to express our sincere thanks to you for making the concert
on Saturday 10th of May here at the "Stiwt" such a
huge success. As you will be aware it was a sell-out, and all
the feedback from the evening was very positive. The audience
came from quite a wide radius, and were extremely complimentary
in their praise of the evening's entertainment. We, as a fund
raising committee, are most grateful to you for attending at
a very busy time in your schedule to help us raise funds for
our beloved theatre. Please pass on our thanks to Ann, Alwena
and all the Choristers for their input in making the evening
such a success. Our volunteers (stewards, shop helpers &
programme sellers) commented on everyone's friendly manner which
made their jobs so much easier. Thanks again for everything,
and we hope to see you back at the "Stiwt" in the
future.
Caroline Smith-Jeffs, Marchwiel,
Wrexham.
Firstly, may I congratulate you and the choir for yet another
outstanding performance at the Rhos "Stiwt" on Friday
9th May. It was absolutely superb. Also, I would like to 'Thank
You' so very much for involving Louis. He was absolutely thrilled
to bits. He was ecstatic to be up on the stage with you all.
You truly made his night. He has talked of little else since
and has taken the pictures I took into school to show his music
teacher and told her all about his magical "debut"
with the Fron Choir!- you have made a little boy very very happy.
Glyn Davies.
I took a party of nine people to your concert in Ipswich and
I want you to know how much we all thoroughly enjoyed the performance
of the Choir and the supporting cast - it was just fabulous.
There was a particular emotional link for me with the Welsh
hymns and anthem since I was born and grew up in the Swansea
Valley and am Welsh speaking. Whilst I have lived in East Anglia
now for more than 40 years, on occasions such as your concert
it reminds me just how Welsh I am.With thanks and best wishes
to you all.
Carole and Alan, Preston.
We met you all at the Avanti Hotel in Cyprus last year (I was
one in the wheelchair). We said we would come and see you at
the Guild Hall when you were there but unfortunately we will
be in Bournemoth visiting family. So we send you our apologies
and are dissappointed we won't see you. We hope all goes well
and that we will meet again some day.
Adrianna and Chris.
Just wanted to say a huge thank you to you all for a fantastic
evening in Birmingham! My mum-in-law Lynne was enthralled with
the singing and music, we are truly blessed to have you! Hope
to see you in Bourneville.
Jenny Flude, Stafford, Staffordshire.
My Dad is a huge fan and for his birthday this year myself,
my brothers and sister are bringing him to see you at the Birmingham
Symphony Hall on the 16th of May 2008. He introduced us to your
music a couple of years ago and when we lost our mother in March
2007 he wanted 'The Rose" played as we entered the church.
It was extremely moving and now whenever we talk about
her we inevitably end up playing your CD and that song in particular.
They were married for 48 years and not a day goes by when she
is not deeply missed. We are really looking forward to the concert
and hope 'The Rose" will be part of the nights repertoire.
Best of luck to you all X.
Adrianna and Chris Glover,
Daventry, Northants.
.Hi all, hope all is going well!! We are coming to see you at
the Symphony Hall in Birmingham on the 16th of May and we are
bringing my mother-in-law, Lynne as a surprise treat yet again.
She is an amazing lady for 87, still sings, mostly Welsh songs
of course, and although she has to spend a lot of time in her
home these days, still enjoys life to the full! It will be great
to see you all again, it seems such a long-time since the Bourneville
Concert last November, Chris was truly moved by the lovely surprise
request! Take care, try and get some rest, its going to be another
wonderful, but clearly fun time once again for you all on your
tour!
John and Elsie McCavery.
To Neil, Matthew and the rest of the Fron Choir - "Good
Luck with the Classical Brit Awards"
Dai Davies.
Four of us, three "locals" from the Dee Valley, came
to the Pavilion in Bournemouth and enjoyed an "emotional
journey". My sister Deleth and I were brought up in Trevor,
attended Garth Primary School and then Dinas Brân. Since
then we have become "Missionaries" in the south of
England! My father Edward (Ted) Davies from Froncysyllte and
was once a member of the Fron Choir and I have very fond memories
of Saturday evenings at the Bryn Howel Hotel after the Male
Voice Choir Competition at the International Eisteddfod where
"many voices" would come together for a very enjoyable
rendition. It was wonderful to touch base with Owen (our second
cousin) and John Evans after more than thirty years! We very
much enjoyed the concert, but if constructive criticism is okay,
felt the Brass Ensemble on occasions drowned out the simple
harmonic beauty of the male voices. I think we are purists!
Best wishes for the future.
Brian and Jaqui Ball, Worthing.
Thank you for a great evening at Bournemouth Pavilion on Sunday.
We really enjoyed it, especially "Creation" at the
end of the first half. A special thanks for the rendition of
Calon Lân in the bar afterwards which made my evening
and was very special. Why not put it on the next CD? You know
it makes sense! All the best for the rest of the tour.
Martin and Beryl Campbell,
Inverness.
We were at the Glasgow Concert Hall on Sunday 13th April to
hear the Choir. They were excellent as was the young New Zealander
William, and the Brass Ensemble. It was my Christmas present
from my husband and it is the best one I have ever had.
My roots are in Anglesey and I spent many a day trip from Liverpool
to Llangollen as a child so many happy memories were revived.
We live in Inverness and have a wonderful Theatre that you could
maybe visit. I realise it is a long way from where you all live
but we know you would get a wonderful reception if you came
here. Thanks again for a wonderful evening.
Adele from Acrefair, and
Pam (the leggy blonde).
Diolch yn fawr for a most memorable Friday night at the Bridgewater
Hall. We thoroughly enjoyed our evening both at the Hall and
in the "Briton's Protection", where the highlight
had to be the heart-rending performance of Calon Lân.
Your voices make us proud to be Welsh. We hope the rest of the
tour goes equally well.
Ian and Lynne White, Scunthorpe.
We have just returned home from seeing you in concert for the
first time at the Bridgewater Hall in Manchester. A lovely venue
and wonderful performance, not forgetting the amazing Fine Arts
Brass, Ann Atkinson and Will Martin - what a star in the making.
We thoroughly enjoyed the Choir's performance and look forward
to seeing you all on your next tour. We can't wait for the next
CD - your two previous are just about worn out. Once
again, well done to all concerned on a great concert.
Luke Todd, South Wales.
Just a quick note to let you know that I really enjoyed your
concert in Cardiff last night. I had heard many wonderful things
about your choir in the past and it was the first time that
I managed to hear you sing. I must admit that there is something
very special about a male voice choir and I think it's wonderful
that you have been going for sixty years and have a bright future
ahead of you. I hope that your tour continues to be successful
and look forward to seeing you perform again when you are in
South Wales.
Pam & Ian Browne.
Just a few lines to say how much we enjoyed the concert on Sunday
night - every bit as good if not better than last year - we
particularly enjoyed Anne and of course Fine Arts Brass who
make those instruments do things they probably weren't designed
to do. It was lovely to see you all, and hopefully we'll be
able to do it again next year. Dad is enjoying the calendar
- he's now looking forward to August! Keep up the good work.
Glyn Smith.
My Wife and I were given tickets for the Cardiff Concert as
Christmas presents and duly attended the concert on April 6th.
We would like to thank the Choir for what turned out to be the
most fantastic Christmas present we have ever received. The
singing, the presentation and the venue were absolutely superb
and we wish the Choir every success on their tour. We thoroughly
enjoyed the piece about "The Creation" and would like
to know if there is a record available of the Choir singing
it?
Reply from Allan
Smith. Regarding "The
Creation"; we wanted to give our audiences a little taste
of what we do when not producing "easy-listening"
records, and this is one of the pieces we use in competition.
We love the challenge that such pieces pose, and are so glad
you enjoyed it too. To answer your question, we do not have
this on a CD although we did win a Llangollen Eisteddfod with
it as one of our choices - so others must also share your views!
Sarah Bynum, USA.
I hope to win the contest of " the person who travels farthest
for a Froncysyllte Concert" in April 2008. I have been
a fan of the Choir since hearing your music on Virgin Airlines
last year and I recently persuaded my mother to buy and send
me the "Encore" album. She sent it begrudgingly because
she had heard it first...... So in April my American husband
and I will fly from the Americas to take my mother and aunt
to Bournemouth for the concert on the 20th of April. I'm already
counting every minute until then.
Bob Rix, Co Durham.
"'Would you like to join?" It says at the end of your
members page. I wish I could but I am a member of two Male Voice
Choirs here in Co Durham with practice in Stanley and Consett
each week. I also sing with two mixed voice groups at The Sage
Gateshead every Monday and Tuesday. As you can imagine this
keeps me rather busy. Good Luck to the Fron Male Voice Choir,
long may your notoriety continue.
Pat and George Machin.
We have just received an e-mail from Canada, with some very
happy news for us. We brought our son up to go to Church but
when he got married he drifted away like so many do. We used
to take our little granddaughter to Sunday School and Church
when she stayed with us in Manchester but they now live in Calgary.
I had a feeling that the music on your CD would have a very
deep meaningful effect on him, and it has. They have all decided
to start going to Church again. Well, another prayer has been
answered and it is all down to your beautiful singing and music
- God moves in a mysterious way. Thank you, I cannot tell you
the very real happiness this news has brought to us. Panis Angelicus
has always been a very special favourite of mine and at this
point, I must say that the beautiful singing of Ann Atkinson
is so lovely, and she blends in so beautifully with the Choir.
God Bless you All.
Richard Lewis, Maidstone,
Kent.
Having had 'The Voices of the Valley Encore' CD for Christmas
I was compelled to buy the original album too! What a fantastic
selection of songs on 'Encore', both in terms of content and
style. I wasn't quite sure what to expect, but I've found myself
playing the album over and again, with 'Rhythm of Life' being
a particular favourite and a fine, lively song to end with.
It works very well for a male voice choir. 'Bridge over Troubled
Water' is also a favourite and the rendition of 'Guide Me, Oh
Thou Great Redeemer' is superb. As one who visits North Wales
for a week's holiday each year, some of the traditional Welsh
songs on the album bring back memories, and I shall endeavour
to see one of the choir's performances this year, although this
might have to be one of those in England because of the timing
of my holiday. These albums have kindled an interest in male
voice choirs and I will certainly look out for any future releases
by the Fron Choir and might be tempted to buy some CDs of other
such choirs!
Pat and George Machin, Colwyn
Bay.
Hope I am not a nuisance e-mailing you again, but I had to let
you see an excerpt from my son's E-mail received this morning:-
"The CD arrived today and had a good listen to it. Will
play it in the car as its really nice. You don't get that kind
of stuff over here". Is it possible you could let me know
when you are touring Canada and whether you will be in Calgary
at any time? You have another 3 fans over there already and
if I know my lad he will be telling everyone at work to go to
your concert.
Reply from Allan Smith.
Thank you once again for your e-mail and
interest in the Choir. We have for some time been exploring
the possibility of releasing the CD's in North America with
our Management and Universal Music, and following that up with
a concert tour. If and when it happens, you can rest assured
that Canada would be prominent in our thinking.
Gwilym and Megan Evans, Sidney
BC, Canada.
My brother Gwyn, who now lives in Manchester, sent me your second
CD for Christmas. I could not have wished for anything better.
Absolutely heavenly!, you are such a credit to Wales. I have
just requested a few songs from "Encore" to celebrate
St. David's Day here on Vancouver Island on a request show on
CBC 2 called "Here's to You". I hope they play the
tunes that I asked for and I hope that the rest of Canada is
listening too. They will be as bowled over with emotion as I
was. Keep giving us more of this wonderful singing and maybe
one day soon you will come and visit us so that we can experience
a "live" concert. Diolch, diolch diolch!!!!!!!!!!!!
John Tanner.
Firstly let me say "Thank You" for bringing wonderful
music back into my life. It makes me emotional & I put this
down to having Welsh Relations who live in the Rhondda Valleys.
I am wearing out my copies of "Voices of the Valley"
& "Encore". When can we expect the next CD? Will
you ever do a DVD of any of your live performances? I can only
hope the answer to both my questions is soon. Best wishes for
the future & keep on bringing your songs into our lives.
Patricia Machin, Colwyn Bay.
We purchased "Encore" recently and it has given us
enormous pleasure listening to it (over and over again!!). We
especially love the ones sung in Welsh even though we do not
understand the language. I have asked around and found out what
some of the titles mean in English so we have a rough idea.
I have purchased another copy and sent it to our son and his
family in Canada this week, as he visited Wales so much in the
past, before he was married and our little granddaughter keeps
saying she wants to come over to
"Walus" (she is not very good at spelling in her E-mails
yet!!!). We have lived here in Wales in a retirement flat in
Colwyn Bay for the past 5 years, but have travelled all over
North Wales many times in years gone by and have always wanted
to live in this area. We now feel like we have "died and
gone to heaven" after spending all our lives living 6 miles
outside of Manchester. "Voices of the Valley Encore"
is excellent, very inspirational and uplifting.
Carol Mutton.
There is nothing more beautific to listen to than a Welsh Male
Voice Choir. As a result of my interest I treated myself to
your "Encore" CD, which I bought primarily because
it contained three of my favourites namely, "How Great
Thou Art", "Panus Angelicus" and the "Chorus
Of The Hebrew Slaves" and was very disappointed with all
three. I did not expect to hear a female soprano in a Male Voice
Choir and the emotional "Chorus Of The Hebrew Slaves"
was spoiled by an overblown introduction and an unnecessarily
obtrusive piano accompaniment.
Reply from Allan Smith.
Thank you so much for your e-mail and
what a pity that our rendition of your favourite songs failed
to match your expectations. Hopefully some of the other 11 tracks
on "Encore" were to your liking. Our Arranger and
Producer Jon Cohen tries to frame and underscore the Choir to
bring out its best and we are very pleased with the results.
The "female soprano" is our Conductor Ann Atkinson.
In Concert she is the regular soloist for several items in our
repertoire, so we felt it was appropriate for her also to be
our soloist on the recordings. So once again, sorry that you
were disappointed.
Michelle Mills-Porter, Birmingham.
SUBLIME! -Just listened to your first album 6 times back to
back!
Her Majesty The Queen.
Click
to read the letter
Sue Davenport, Near Port
Douglas, Australia.
G'day from the Far North of Queensland. Just doing the ironing
on a Sunday afternoon listening to "Encore". Must
say it's very good and relaxing to listen too. All I am seeing
in my mind is my home and the surrounding valleys of North Shropshire
and Wales - being an expat from Oswestry. It's a few years ago,
maybe 6 or 7, that I was at the Church for the Christmas concert
with the Porthywean Silver Band - I'm an ex member. I really
enjoyed the first CD and the second was just as enjoyable, once
my Mum was able to send it to me, "Encore" has been
difficult to get in the local area back home SOLD OUT of course.
I also watched the "Susie Show" (not usually as I'm
not keen on her), but when I saw an advert for the show and
saw that some of the Choir was going to be on I didn't miss
it. Keep up the good work and I'll await the next CD.
Michelle Mills-Porter, Birmingham.
Just a very quick note to say "thank you" for a fabulous
album! I got it for Christmas, and I simply cannot stop playing
it. It¹s just marvellous. I have been looking at your web
site and I would love to have come to your show on the 2nd of
February, but unfortunately it's our annual show on the same
day! Poo! I will definitely come to another show once that¹s
out the way. I love singing along to all the tracks, which I
can do comfortably as a Ladies Bass singer - I am the PRO for
a Ladies Barbershop Chorus, the "Second City Singers",
and we are ranked about 7th in the country. I am sure that my
Great Grandfather would have known some of your original members.
In addition to being a well known Bass singer, he was the conductor
of several choirs in Birmingham from the 1940's and onwards.
He was Thomas Osborne. Anyway, thanks again for a fabulous album,
you have replaced Treorchy as my favourite Male Voice Choir
now, so can't wait for the next album. We¹re recording
an album this year, (amateur) so I might drop you a copy.
Polly Shamy, Peterborough,
New Hampshire USA.
When I was in North Wales last summer I was introduced to your
music and ended up buying many copies of your first CD as gifts
for friends. If you ever plan a North American tour I would
appreciate knowing as I serve a UCC (like URC) church in Peterborough,
NH, and we would be interested in hosting one of your appearances.
Thank you for the joy you bring to so many people.
Yvonne Keniston, South Australia.
Hello all..... Was given "Voices of the Valley" by
a friend .... how wonderful you all sound...... God bless.
Joan Abley.
WELL. What can I say, just you are all fantastic, and yes I
have got the new CD "Encore", it was on order just
as soon as you told us it was to be released. Can't wait for
the next one - sorry to over work you guy's, but you are so
good. Thank you for yet another wonderful CD, I now have two
on my CD player that never come off.
HAPPY NEW YEAR TO YOU ALL AND YOUR FAMILIES.
Alwyn James, Pyrénées
Orientales.
A wonderful, wonderful Christmas present of your Encore CD has
already given me hours of pleasure in a valley very different
from the one I was brought up in, when, half a century ago,
I got along to every concert by the Tredegar Orpheus.The male
voice choir repertoire has exploded since those days, although
I miss the old test-pieces of "Martyrs of the Arena",
"Crossing the Plain" and such like. Do any male voice
choirs ever record one or two of these? Alas, they may not have
the commercial fit for todays buyers. May I suggest one
revival which would suit Fron down to the ground and would be
a stellar hit, "Top of the Pops" even? Many years
ago, my uncle Tom Seyes ran a London choir, the St David Singers,
who did some film and radio work in the 1930s. He arranged for
Welsh male voice choir the Richard Genée comic fantasy
"Un Potpourri Italian", an "Italian Salad",
in which a jumble of Italian musical terms are sung in the style
that they suggest. The old 78 record regularly turned up in
radio request programmes. I havent heard it since those
days but it would wow audiences and CD buyers.Your choir has
a style and, I fancy, an extravert tenor to make it zing. Strangely
your repertoire does not seem to have anything in Italian
surely the delightful Ann Atkinson will confirm it is the loveliest
of all languages in which to sing. Once again, thanks for the
pleasure you have given to me and mine.
Ian White
Just want to say how wonderful your music is. I used to be a
church choir boy myself and choral singing is just so beautiful
especially when song by God's voices. I have never heard any
one who can sing as beautifully as the Welsh especially the
Fron Choir. It fills me with tears of joy and happiness. Hoping
to make Manchester in April to hear you live for the first time.
Bravo, keep up the beautiful singing.
Christine Jones, Rhondda.
I have just played Voices of the Valley Encore and was disappointed
as I really enjoyed the original. I thought it was technically
good but it lacked the passion that was in the first CD.
Christine Roderick.
My daughter gave me "Voices of the Valley" for Christmas.
Wonderful harmonies. Keep it up boys
Adrianna and Chris Glover,
Daventry,
Northants.
Hi, just wanted to wish you all a very Merry Christmas! I am
sure you are all busy and looking forward to a family break
over the Christmas period! All the best for 2008, cannot wait
to seeing you all at the Symphony Hall in May.
Wendy MacKenzie, Hertfordshire.
Thank you to the Fron Choir for their second CD. I enjoy them
very much, especially Exodus. It leaves me spellbond. I look
forward to the next CD and wish the choir a Very Happy Christmas.
Joan Harpham, Canada.
I just received your CD from my cousin in Wales as a Christmas
gift in the mail. It is so brilliant and nice to hear all these
miles away it makes us homesick. Thanks to everyone in the choir,
and please, when you all get together, I want them all to know
their music is brilliant and makes us feel close to our Homeland
all these miles away.
Jackie Lewis, Manchester.
What a wonderful way to spend a Saturday lunchtime, listening
to a fabulous concert. Thank you so much. I also loved the Calendar.
Margaret McLean.
I would like to thank the Fron Choir and everybody concerned
in the production of the wonderful music on both CD's and wish
you all the best for the coming season. Have a Very Merry Christmas
and a Happy and Prosperous New Year. Thanks again.
Yvonne Hardy.
Just a note to let you know I received my new CD a few weeks
ago and have been playing it constantly ever since. I love it
and many congratulations to everyone for reaching the No:1 slot
on Classic FM Radio. I am now awaiting release of the tickets
for the concert in May and can't wait to be part of the audience
and enjoy a live performance once again. My very best wishes
to everyone for a very Happy and Peaceful Festive Season and
every success in 2008.
Ally, Cambridgeshire, wishing
to be in Capel Curig!
After being woken every morning by Voices on my alarm, I wanted
a change, so have just bought Encore. The lady in Woolies asked
me if I wanted a gift receipt, to which I replied -No it's for
me! - perhaps she thought I looked too young to enjoy good music!
Encore is wonderfully emotive - takes me back to the wonderful
times I've had in Wales. Diolch yn fawr iawn.
Maggie Pugh, USA.
I happened to click on the film clip of your appearance on what
seems to be the BBC "Today" show and of course had
to investigate further. I was born a month after your choir
was formed and grew up with Welsh music beginning with "
A Nation Sings" on LP. I bought your first CD and what
a surprise that your second was being released the next day;
so I ordered that one too. I've had the first one for a week
now and have played it over and over-at home, in the car, at
my brother's. and it will accompany my to my niece's' tomorrow.
"Encore" came today and is playing for the second
time as I write this. I didn't think it could get any better
but it is. Your selection and mix is wonderful ; I'm looking
forward to your next release as there are a few unrecorded selections
in your repertoire!
How wonderful it would be to see you on tour here in North America,
but until then I'll be listening. Diolch yn fawr for your beautiful
music, and congratulations on your well deserved recognition.
Janine, San Diego.
Good Morning Choir. It is 8am, just opened yesterdays mail and
recieved a copy of 'Voices of the Valley - Encore'. I have just
had the best morning, played it twice already and 'Rhythm of
Life' 5 times.Truely fabulous.Guys you have excelled yourselves.
Now you have the travel bug how about San Diego? Merry Christmas
and Best Wishes to you all for 2008.
Brenda, Cottage Fields, St.
Martins.
Saw you all in the concert in Walsall and had a wonderful afternoon.
Good wishes and success for the new CD.
Michael King, Grantham.
Just brought your ' Encore ' album, another wonderful selection
of music. I have a long association with friends in Merthyr
and I am transported back to the Valleys. Both albums are played
and played. Thanks very much. More please.
John Holland
Having read in The Times a few weeks ago that the Fron continued
to prosper I was reminded of my days in the City of London.
In the mid to late 70's my then employer's senior litigation
partner (Eddie Sibley of Berwin Leighton, solicitors) asked
if I could help a friend of his. The Froncysllte Male Voice
Choir wished to set itself up as a registered charity and Eddie
asked if I could help. I cannot recall if Eddie's friend was
a member of the choir or perhaps a local solicitor. Thus, I
cannot recall the name of the person with whom I was put in
touch. You see, my task was to advise on and subsequently draft
the Trust Deed constituting the Fron's charitable status and
to communicate with the Charity Commission in order to get its
approval to that Deed. So long ago and I was pleasantly reminded
by the Times article. I am delighted that you continue to prosper
(in spite of my small contribution all those years ago!) and
wish you continued success.
Bernard D.W. Wright, Ponteland,
Northumberland.
I am writing to say that my wife and I have enjoyed listening
to your latest recording on CD, " Voices Of The Valley
Encore ". When I wrote to your Chairman in April this year
I enquired whether it would it be possible to include the lyrics
of the songs in the booklet accompanying future Fron albums?
I am pleased to see that you have enhanced the album by so doing.
Thank you. When you produce another album, hopefully in 2008,
please consider including an English translation of songs having
Welsh lyrics? I am pleased to say that we have seats for your
visit to The Sage on the 9th May, 2008. Apparently, tickets
are selling fast. I am sure it will be a great success as was
your last visit earlier this year. Unfortunately, we were unable
to obtain a copy of your programme at The Sage this year, perhaps
additional copies could be made available in 2008. Trust you
have a most enjoyable tour in 2008, roll on the 9th May !!!
Alastair, Lyndsay and Toby
Dobson.
A really fantastic CD, please keep them coming. In fact, We
think you should enter X Factor next year and show the nation
what real talent is all about!! You should release Rhythm of
Life as a single and watch it fly off the shelves - great stuff,
we wish you every success.
Mrs M. McLean.
I have recently bought the new CD and I am enjoying it very
much.Thank you.
Christine Mose.
I recently watched a clip on BBC Breakfast featuring the Fron
Male Voice choir and the Voices of the Valley Encore CD. It
was beautifully sung in a lovely setting.
Catherine McGrath, Holywell.
I am sitting here listening to Encore with tears streaming down
my face. I could listen all day to your beautiful voices so
thank you all so much. I never thought I would hear Yesterday
and Falling in Love sung better than by their original artistes
- the Beatles and the lovely Everly Brothers - how wrong I was.
I watched the BBC interviews and recognised Talacre/Gronant
immediately. Thank you for using the lighthouse and beach for
your promotional video recording - I would have loved to have
been there to see you all. The inclusion of the words are so
welcome - especially for Ar Lan Y Mor, one of my favourites,
thanks to Bryn Terfel of course. I am English by birth, just
across the water in Wirral, but live not that far from you all
in North Wales, near Holywell, so am Welsh now. I will take
you all up on the offer to sit in on rehearsals at Acrefair!
God Bless you all.
Chris Ladkin
Well I didn`t think the 2nd
CD could be better than the 1st one, got that wrong didn`t I.
Just bought the new CD and I think it`s fabulous. I`m not biased
because I`m a Llan girl now living in the midlands, or that
my brother is in the choir (Phil Cowsill) but because you have
ALL done the Taffs proud, the Rhythm of Life, made the hairs
on the back of my neck stand up.Well done to you ALL on another
number one album.
Beryl Trimby
I had to write to you again
.I thought
it was Christmas this morning as the 2nd Fron Choir CD came
through my door, brilliant! Just as enjoyable as the first one.
It has been playing on repeat all day and it gets
better and better. How great to have the words as well, as I
love singing along, albeit out of tune and very quietly so as
not to spoil the effect. Keep producing
how
about an operatic one next time?
Annette Hobson, Walkeringham,
South Yorks.
I always get goosebumps when I hear the Welsh National Anthem
being sung at rugby matches, and now the goosebumps are doing
overtime when I listen to your CD as I work about in the kitchen
or anywhere in the house! What wonderful, wonderful voices and
the music is the perfect accompaniment. I am about to order
your "Encore" CD and cannot wait to hear it. I am
Scottish, but always looked forward to the Welsh rugby invasion
in Edinburgh during the (then) 5 Nations rugby tournament. Your
music and voices are wonderful, keep up the good work and I
wish you every success for the future.
Paul Dilks, Chairman, Nottingham
Male Voice Choir..
Hearty and many congratulations on the achievement of your 60th
year, and thank you so much for being such fine ambassadors
for the Male Voice singing art .
June & Bob Hopkins, Dundee
We were staying at your hotel in Paphos and have just returned
home. We enjoyed your performances both informal in the pool
& more formal at the evening concert. The camaraderie between
you all was so nice and we were all a bit lonely after you left.
Chris appeared after aerobics on Thursday and suggested that
we sing the "Banana" song but it didn¹t happen
! We live in Dundee and would be keen to hear dates when you
will be up in Scotland..
Rob Elliot, Wessex Male Voice
Choir
I was on the way home from Kent last night and heard the Choir
on Radio 2 - great stuff. I arrived home to see and hear the
video clip with "Yesterday" - it's fantastic. I wish
you well on the forthcoming CD release and lots of publicity
to go with it. You carry the torch for the whole Male Choir
tradition. Keep it going chaps we are all very proud of you.
Geoff & Janet Davies
I just had to write to thank Ann and "The Boys" for
the wonderful concerts that she and the Choir gave in St John's
School, and St Barnabas Church whilst you were in Cyprus. The
choir made such an impression, that many of our ex pat friends
are still talking about the Welsh Night, with a little bit of
"Hiraeth". As an ex Fron Chorister (first tenor) for
20 years, it was great to meet up with so many old friends and
fellow choristers, and you gave us such a warm welcome. We are
eagerly awaiting release of your new CD. Diolch yn fawr iawn
o galon.
Tom Jones, Rochdale
Greetings. It wonderful to see that the Choir has gone from
strength to strength. My father, John Hugh Jones, is in the
photo's of 1947 - 49. My mother is still alive and in her 80's,
and now lives in Mold. Keep on singing.
Brian Robertson, Tamworth
NSW, Australia
The ABC had a wonderful interview with one of your group, hence
I managed to get the CD which is distributed by the ABC bookshops
in Australia. I can only say how wonderful it is to listen to
your beautiful voices. Well done! You must all be so proud as
a group.
The Saltash Ladies Choir,
Devon
To all the members of Froncysyllte Male Voice Choir - congratulations
on your 60 years of singing. We read your story in the Daily
Mail and have listened to your CD - may you go from strength
to strength. We also celebrate 60 years in 2008.
Beryl Trimby
Heard the choir in St Asaph Cathedral last night, left our
expectations at the starting gate, I have never heard such a
sound in my life, was totally transported, transfixed, .......
not enough words in the dictionary to explain my feelings, it
was not just entertaining it was also a very moving, spiritual
experience. The silence in the Cathedral after the singing of
"Abide with Me" was almost tangible, and the only
time there was no clapping. The concert could have gone on all
night and I don't think anyone, other than the choir, would
have fallen asleep. Also must mention Glain Dafydd whose playing
of the harp was 'magical' and greatly enhanced the evening.
For such a young person she has such poise as well as being
a brilliant harpist and we will obviously be hearing a lot of
her in the future. Thankyou is such an inadequate word, but
nonetheless, thankyou.
Robert Sells
Whilst enjoying my cocoa night cap I thought I would congratulate
you on tonight's gig at St Asaph. You have worked so hard with
that excellent choir and the results are terrific. You seem
to have set new standards of articulation, diction and balance:
not many of your compatriot groups could have done justice to
the Brian Hughes piece as you did. Enjoy each new success as
it comes.
John Mason
Congratulations on the concert in St Asaph on Saturday, Kathleen
and I enjoyed it very much, in fact we are of the opinion that
it was the best choir that we have ever heard, which together
with a nicely balanced programme made it a fantastic evening.
Carol Vickers (nee
Hart) Melbourne Australia
Congratulations on a very successful visit by the choir members.
I heard them on the radio in Melbourne and felt very homesick,
and proud to be an Abernant/Cefn "girl" !.
David Jull MP, Logan City,
Australia
Thank you all very much for your visit on Friday last to 101
FM in Logan City and for your appearances on our Popular Classics
programme. We still receive great reaction to your CD. I hope
the trip home, although long, was not too arduous and you made
it on time for Choir Practice. On behalf of Syd Abrahams and
myself, very special thanks again and we look forward to a Brisbane
Concert in the not too distant future.
Nerys Owen.
I had to send you a note to tell you how much pleasure your
CD gave to one of Wales famous sons. (Ivor Emmanuel). I was
with Ivor at his home in Spain two weeks before he died. We
arrived at about 10 o'clock in the night, and although Ivor
was not a well man he sat with his cousin Mary and myself and
spoke of the thrill your choir had given him. Someone had sent
him a CD, and he couldn't get over it. He was full of admiration
and praise for the beautiful sound of the choir. He went back
into hospital the following day, but I can assure you The Fron
"Abide with Me" was with him to the end. I had a call
from Spain last night, and was told that part of the CD was
played at his funeral on Monday. I know that Ivor's widow intends
writing to you, but I wanted you to know what pleasure your
choir gave to the famous son from Pontrhydyfen during the last
few weeks of his life. ( Diolch yn fawr am y pleser gafodd Ivor
wrth glywed eich Cor).
Reply from Allan
Smith. Thank you so
much for your mail. We are all so very sorry to hear of Ivor's
death - he really was one of Wales' famous sons. Many of the
choir remember him with great affection from a session at the
Strawberry Recording Studios in Stockport in the seventies,
which resulted in a very successful record - "A Salute
to Wales". Undoubtedly, his voice will continue to be heard
by many, many people, not just in Wales but all over the world
for many years to come. It is a very great honour to know how
much he enjoyed our CD and we are humbled to hear that it was
played at his funeral.
Ann Tetlow
I have the "Voices of the Valley" and would like to
know if there are any plans to record a second CD as I think
it is wonderful.
Phill Jones, Blaenau Ffestiniog
Just a short e-mail from the Brythoniaid Male Voice Choir from
Blaenau Ffestiniog to say many congratulations on your success
with the CD and also at the recent Brit awards ( who's Paul
McCartney anyway ). It's nice to see a choir from North Wales
being so successful and bringing a spot of publicity up North
for a change. By the way, if you arrange something for Australia
and want some page turners, we have 55 of them in the Blaenau
area.Well Done.
Sue Stark, Australia
(a Llangollen girl)
Love the CD. It makes me so proud of my heritage You had a mention
on a Perth radio station in Western Australia a couple of weeks
ago and some tracks from the CD played - the response was overwhelming.
I can only say keep the Valley Singing..
Gillian McGovern
I heard Voices of the Valley on a chart show, bought it immediately
and another 3 for presents. I was excited to find that Fron
is near Ruabon, where my grandfather was born (I live near Edinburgh)
- I may even be related to some of your members! My husband,
who otherwise is a rock music fan, puts it on at night in bed
to help him wind down and says its the best CD he owns, but
he plays it so much I would really like to hear some more of
your repertoire.
Reply from Allan
Smith Thank you for
your mail - it's always good to hear that our music is being
received so well, and by a 'rock fan' - no less! The Choir have
just finished recording a follow-up CD to 'Voices of the Valley'
which should be on general sale around October/November. It
promises to be as good, if not better than "Voices"
and we are all very excited about it.
Yvonne Hardy
I was very fortunate in being able to attend the visit of 'The
Fron Choir" to Windsor and it was the most enjoyable experience.
I would like to know if there are any plans for the Choir to
perform at a London venue? - if not - why not??? We have some
very good venues in and around London especially now that the
Royal Festival Hall has re-opened plus the 02 millenium dome
and Wembley, which I am sure this superb Choir could fill very
easily. I had the added pleasure of speaking with your excellent
Conductor - Ann Atkinson - after the performance and she didn't
think there were any immediate plans to perform in London or
surrounding area but I sincerely hope that you will bring this
excellent Choir into a broader spectrum in London. I think you
are absolutely fantastic and would love to see you perform again
but your website shows you are only playing in venues well out
of the reach of London. PLEASE, PLEASE put this suggestion to
your management. The Choir has many fans who would love to be
able to see you perform and not just listen to your excellent
CD, which has now - quite rightly - gone platinum.
Sheila Nottle
I have recently heard some of your music and breathtaking is
the word that comes to mind.
Emily Curwen, Bath
I discovered Fron Choir entirely by chance as I was listening
to Classic FM yesterday morning. 'Shenandoah' came on the radio
and brought me to tears. I then bought 'Voices of The Valley'
and the rest of your music has had the same effect! I am a music
A level student and my love for classical music has grown hugely
throughout the past year with the help of inspirational music
such as yours. I am a flautist but I also enjoy singing and
have sung in a couple of choirs. My school choir competed in
the final of the BBC Radio 3 Choir of the Year in 2005, which
was an amazing experience. So, thank you for this beautiful
album which will, no doubt, bring me hours of enjoyment. Good
luck for the future and perhaps one day I will pop in for a
visit!
Paul Gilchrist
I just wanted to thank you for arranging for a song to be dedicated
to my parents when the Choir performed at Llanfair Caereinion.
They were so thrilled to have this done that they have been
telling all their friends and it was a highlight of their 50th
Wedding Anniversary weekend. Once again, thank you very much.
Stuart Flint
I just wished to thank your Choir members for the wonderful
C.D. recently released which has given me hours of listening
enjoyment. For over 45 years I have been involved in Male Choir
singing and have always been troubled over those years as to
why Male Choral singing does not get the air time on either
radio or T.V. and to suddenly be hearing The Fron Choir nearly
every day on Classic F.M. and other radio and T.V. programmes
has gladdened my heart more than anyone will know. I often visited
Llangollen in my youth in the 40s &50s when my Uncle, the
Rev Sidney Austin Price, was the Methodist Minister in the Llangollen
Circuit and lived near Ruabon. The times I travelled the Canal
was many and it was in this period that my love of Male Voice
singing began, although being of Welsh blood via my Grandmother
Gwenillian (dare I say from South Wales), I was born in England
into a family where choral singing and brass bands were a part
of my everyday life. It is of little surprise that my love of
singing in and hearing Male Choirs is still as strong as it
was in my teens.
Malcolm Bowker
It is quite by chance that I discovered the Fron
Choir. I borrowed a CD from our central lending librarys
music section, and how glad I am. The quality of the recordings
and the arrangements are wonderful. Im only a novice at
this sort of thing you understand but I know a good thing when
I hear it. I was so moved when I heard the first track We
are sailing that I was overcome with emotion. It brought
back such vivid memories of all those British service personnel
setting sail for the Falklands conflict.
Adrianna Glover, Daventry,
Northants
Just wanted to send a quick email to say how much we enjoyed
your wonderful singing at the Classic Brit awards on ITV 1,
really beautiful. It seems ages since we saw you all in Birmingham
in March. My mother-in-law, Lynne, who you dedicated a song
to, still talks about it. Hopefully we will be able to visit
you all one day, a lovely excuse to visit Wales!! Love to you
all.
Joan Abley, Hampshire
I was given "Voices of the Valley" by my grandson
for Christmas and I now have 3 CD's of your choir plus 10 other
welsh choirs and I can honestly say that they are never off
my CD player. The other choirs are very good but I really think
your choir is by far the best. Every word you sing is so clear
that I find myself singing along, even in welsh and I am not
welsh. You have a fan for life here, old admittedly (72) but
a faithful fan. Thank you for so many hours of pleasure. My
best wishes for your continued fame.
Brian J. Ashley, Llanfair
Caereinion
Last night my wife and I treated Jerry Gittens, (who lives here
in Llanfair Caereinion and used to sing with your choir) to
the concert at St Mary's. He, as were we all, was thrilled.
He quietly joined in with most of the choir's repertoire and
spoke to a few of the longer serving members during the interval.
His eyes glistened with nostalgia and I suspect he's still smiling.
You made an old man very happy. And what of the singing? Enthralling,
spellbinding, arousing; what can one add to the accolades heaped
upon you; except perhaps to say that it's amazing and inspiring,
to see, and hear, what 60 seemingly ordinary people can achieve
when they put their shoulders to the wheel. Your success has
been earned - enjoy it.
Heather, Vancouver, Canada
Congratulations to all on your "overnight" success(!)
and a big thank you for your "Voices of the Valley"
from a lonely expat. I love the view on the cover of the CD.
Can you please tell me where this picture is taken? Any plans
for a North American tour as I'm sure you would be very successful
here. Best wishes.
Reply from the
Fron Choir Treasurer Allan Smith - The
picture on the front cover of the CD was taken on the summit
of a hill above Llangollen in North Wales amongst the ruins
of Castell Dinas Brân (Crow Castle would be a rough translation),
and was taken at 5 am as the sun was rising. It features a few
of our younger, more agile members as the climb up to it is
quite strenuous.
Brian and Jaqui Ball Worthing
My wife and I were at St Davids Hall, in Cardiff for your concert
which was fantastic. We had travelled from Worthing in West
Sussex to see my brother and the wonderful choir he is in. "Voices
of the Valley" has been nearly worn out here but could
I put in a request for Callon Lan song on a future CD please.
The first time that we saw the choir was at Bournemouth a few
years ago, long before you were this 'famous'. It was at a concert
given for a retired President of the choir I think and it was
with the Bournemouth Male Voice Choir as well. Bournemouth were
on in the first half and they were really good. Never have I
experience what happened after the interval when you started
singing. I thought that the roof was going to come off. A magic
moment for sure. Hopefully you will be touring the south at
some time so we are really looking forward to seeing you all
again.
Dawn Holland.
The Voices Of The Valley C.D. has given us many hours of enjoyment
during the past couple of months and it deserves to be back
at Number One on Classic F.M..
Jean Heyes - Besses o'th'Barn
Band
Well what next for our friends from Wales. I heard it on the
radio yesterday travelling back upnorth - we were listening
to Classic FM and they mentioned you and the Classical Brits.
Well I'm spreading the news and asking people to vote so lets
hope you win. Even if you don't, what an experience you have
all had this year. What will be next ? Congrats to you all from
Besses, especially to Ann who deserves some publicity. Hopefully
when the dust settles we might be able to do another concert
together. Fingers crossed.
Wendy Norman (nee Jones),
London, Ontario Canada
It is such a pleasure to send this email to you with regards
the wonderful Fron Male Voice Choir CD which was given to me
as a Christmas gift 2006. I am a Welsh girl residing in Canada
and have been following the remarkable life story of this choir.
The CD itself transports me back to Wales in an instant and
once again allows me to feel so proud of my Welshness. My favourites
are too numerous to mention but I will say that I can't wait
for your next CD to happen. I am hoping to return to Wales this
summer and look forward to visiting the valley and perhaps hear
the choir practice. Keep up the wonderful work, the powerful
singing and the joy you send to all of us no longer living in
Wales but will always have their welsh spirit within them. I
hope you plan to visit Canada real soon. With warm wishes and
great appreciation to you all.
Trevor Jones (AUSTRALIA)
I am delighted to see the Vron Choir doing so well, it brings
back a wonderful memory for me the last time I was over in Wales.
My brother David who is a member of the choir and his lovely
wife Angie were renewing their marriage vows at Vale Crucis
Abbey" in Llangollen. Anne, the conductor of the choir,
with the aid of some members of the choir sang I'll walk beside
you, and it was a wonderful rendition. Afterwards we all retired
to a small reception and the choir members gave us a little
concert on their own. All of a sudden Anne who knew I loved
singing in a choir asked me if I would like to join the boys
in a rendering of "Myfanwy". I was over the moon and
I joined the baritone section and gave it all I had. It touched
me very much to be included in a wonderful moment, and I will
remember it as long as I live. Thank you Anne and the boys all
the very best in the future.
Alan Jenkins, Cardiff
After listening to the Choir at St David's Hall recently we
are excited to find we will be in Cyprus during the same time
in October. Can you please forward the venues for your tour
so we can have the great pleasure of listening to you again.
Peter Mountain, Sunderland
I had the pleasure of seeing and hearing your performance at
the Sage Gateshead on 1 April 07. My first experience of your
talents was a CD bought for me by my wife for Christmas. My
experience on the 1st April was out of this world. Both my wife
and I had an extremely enjoyable evening and look forward to
the next tour which we will be looking out for.
Nita Prior, Connecticut USA
Thrilled to read on the BBC News that you have been nominated
for the Classical Brit Best Album award. Well done, we look
forward to many more of your wonderful CD's.
Angela Whelan, Fine Arts
Brass
A huge thanks again for a very enjoyable tour with the Choir.
All the best of luck for all your future endeavours and I look
forward to seeing you all on "the box" at the "Classical
Brits". Thanks especially for the kind gift - Baby Ben
will wear it with pride when he finally arrives!! Kindest regards
to you Ann, Alwena and the rest of the Choir.
Shaun Edwards, Wrexham
Just thought I would send you a quick e-mail to say I thoroughly
enjoy listening to your CD Voices of the Valley. We've actually
just taken a copy up for my Uncle who is now living in Scotland
so expect to get a few Scottish fans as well. My Mum is also
an avid listener of the CD playing it constantly in her car
except, being a Man Utd fan, has to constantly skip track 09
despite me telling her it's from Carousel! Kind Regards and
best wishes for all your future endeavours!
Bernard D.W. Wright, Northumberland
Over fifty years ago I was a second
tenor in an evangelical male voice choir in Portsmouth which
gave mutual pleasure to the members of churches of different
denominations and the choir members. My wife presented me with
the "Voices of the Valley" CD as a Christmas present
and as a senior citizen I have most things in life and Christmas
presents from the family are really unnecessary. However, the
Fron Choir album is a present to treasure. For the past fifty
years, I have been unable to attend cinemas and theatres owing
to the restriction in leg room for my disability. However, I
am grateful to my wife for making arrangements for me to attend
the Fron Choir Concert at The Sage, Gateshead. The expected
discomfort throughout the three hours was greatly ameliorated
due to the emotions I felt listening to the renditions by the
Fron Choir which were both moving and warmly inspiring. It is
indeed a gift to have a fine singing voice, and in particular,
the lovely voice of mezzo-soprano and conductor Ann Atkinson,
also the unexpected humour by the artists was good to see, particularly
with the singing of "Lazy Bones". Also, mention should
be made of the humour and voice of tenor Alfie Boe, and the
talented Fine Art Brass who accompanying the choir. May I wish
the members of the Fron Choir and those concerned with the production
of the albums every success in the future.
Mike Packham, Utah USA
We're home safe in the USA but with fond memories of our UK
vacation. Our evening with Fron was a highlight of our trip.
Thanks so much for the picture on the webpage. With all the
excitement that night I didn't take any still shots--just video,
so your pictures are a treasure. The ones of your tour were
fun to look at now that we recognize so many faces. I'm glad
that you are enjoying the CDs of our Choir, we surely enjoy
the CD we were given that night. My wife will wear it out, I'm
sure.
Samantha, California USA
Have just listened to your 'Voices of the Valley' album. Truly
wonderful and heartening to hear those lovely voices and ballads;
especially "Land of my Fathers", "Abide with
Me" and "All through the Night". My Father lived
in Penarth, near Cardiff; although passed on some 9 years ago.
It fills me with tremendous pride and joy to hear those voices
of homeland. Another album soon please. All the best, keep going.
Mary Martin
I purchased your CD after Christmas on the recommendation of
a family member. I was simply stunned at the music and the wonderful
singing and moved beyond tears by the some of the tracks
especially "Abide with Me", "Jerusalem"
and "Unchained Melody" all music used at the
funeral service for my late husband, Michael, a police officer
who sadly died last June aged just 50. Michael was a lifelong
brass musician and would have loved your music just as my daughter
and I do. When are you touring in the South of England? We would
love to see and hear the choir live. With grateful thanks and
best wishes to the choir.
Marama Williams, Oswestry
I would like to thank the choir for the Happy Birthday dedication
at the Llandudno concert. We had a great night.
Alistair Campbell, Birmingham
What a great night! I sing with the Birmingham Icknield Male
Voice Choir and was given tickets to your concert for a birthday
treat, and what a treat it was. Starting with Alfie Boe who
has such a fine voice and such a great sense of humour, and
then such a great programme from the choir. I must admit I was
a little concerned when I saw on the ticket that you were appearing
with a brass band as I have heard many choirs overwhelmed by
brass. But what a delight!, a small group of quality players
who played and accompanied so well. My only regret from the
evening was not being quick enough to get a programme. The highlight
for me was "World in Union" which was stunning and
I loved the soft Welsh songs which showed a real control of
tone. Your audience was very warm and appreciative, the atmosphere
light-hearted and the music wonderful. I hope you go from success
to success. Please hurry back to Birmingham.
Margaret and Neil Wallace
Just a note to say what a marvellous
experience the concert provided at St Davids Hall. The blending
of the voice was as wonderful as on the CD. We also enjoyed
the Brass quintet. We wish you all the best for the future -
we're looking forward to the next CD.
Pamela Lloyd-Jones
Fabulous CD - treated myself to it at Christmas - when is the
next one coming out - my grandson says he's fed up of hearing
this one!! Good luck to you all.
Adrianna Glover
We had asked you to dedicate a song in Welsh for my Mother-in-law
Mrs Lynne Glover at the Symphony Hall and we were delighted
when our request was read out by the compere. As it happens,
the hymn you dedicated happened to be a favourite of her Father
and brought back many happy memories. We all enjoyed the concert
immensely - especially Lynne! - and hope to be able to see you
all again. Kind regards and thanks again.
Kay Jones, Salford, Lancashire
Just before Christmas I bought your CD "Voices of the Valley"
- please hurry and make another one as I have almost worn mine
out.. Before my dear husband died, we used to go to the Male
Voice Evening every St Davids Day to listen to a visiting Welsh
Choir. I miss that so much. Imagine my delight when my youngest
daughter took me to the Bridgewater Hall to hear your Choir
as an early Mothers Day present. We both enjoyed it immensely.
Thank you for singing "The Rose", Gaynor, my daughter
was hoping the choir would sing "Bring Him Home" -
perhaps you'll include it on a future CD. Diolch yn Fawr for
bringing so much pleasure to so many exiled from those lovely
Welsh hills.
Carina and Malcolm Brown
Congratulations on your past and present successes (they could
not have gone to a better Choir) and good luck for the future.
We thoroughly enjoyed your concert at Llandudno - it was excellent.
All the very best to you all.
Moira Flint, Surrey
I saw the Choir at St David's Hall on Sunday the 11th of March
and thought the concert was wonderful. My husband bought me
the CD a couple of weeks ago. I love it. I was born in Wales
but now live in Surrey.
Tim Walter, Cardiff
My wife, and members of her family attended the concert last
weekend at St Davids Hall and had a great time - they thought
the concert was superb.
Robin G. Bevan, LLanelli
Hi, I just wanted to say how much I enjoyed your Concert in
Cardiff on Sunday Night. As an ex-member of a Male Voice Choir
in my locality it was a refreshing change to hear a choir singing
the more popular music such as "Sailing", "You
Raise Me Up" and "World In Union". Well done,
keep it up and I hope there is more of the same on your next
album - looking forward to it already.
Anne Bedson, Cardiff
Would you please convey my thanks to the choir for their magnificent
rendering of Happy Birthday for Betty Wood on that wonderful
evening. It made this special lady's day - it was the best evening
she had ever had and you all made her feel very important .
We all enjoyed every second of the concert and we cannot wait
for the release of the next CD !.Once again my grateful thanks
for taking the trouble, she will remember that night for the
rest of her life !
Betty Wood, Blaenffos, Pembrokeshire
Annwyl Côr Meibion y Fron, I wish to send you my grateful
thanks not only for your superb concert, but for me, the trouble
you took to acknowledge my 80th birthday, and the glorious rendition,
by the Choir of 'Happy Birthday'. Although stunned at the time,
it was a wonderful finale to a truly memorable day and will
stay with me for ever. Diolch yn fawr iawn unwaith eto.
Pam & Ian Browne Nailsworth.
Gloucestershire.
Hope you all got back home safely last night. We would just
like to say how very much we enjoyed the 'boy band's' performance
last night at St Davids Hall. Not only the Choir but also Fine
Art Brass and the lovely lady in red, who is so obviously passionate
about what she does. Thank you
so much for talking to us and for giving Dad a mention - he
enjoyed that. Enough rambling - thanks again for a truly memorable
evening - and also thanks to the singer at the beginning. We
shall look out for your next performance in our area, and wish
you every success - there is something magical about Welsh singing,
which you don't seem to get anywhere else in the world.
Ray & Ena Shepherdson,
Grimsby.
I received your CD as a Christmas present and enjoyed it immensely.
Then we were offered a joint birthday present (my wife's being
in February and mine in April) of tickets to the Harrogate concert
and an overnight stay! It was worth driving the 90 miles each
way for such a wonderful evening even though we are some years
older than your Choir! We really appreciated the variety in
the programme and the links given by your compere and your conductor.
Fine Arts brass were also brilliant and I thought the percussionist
deserved special mention for the range of skills he displayed.
When we were younger we came to Wales for many years in succession,
staying at a farmhouse in Cefnddwysarn, nr. Bala and were introduced
to choral penillion singing at a concert by Cor Godr'er Aran
(our host translated for us!) We have retained our love of Welsh
Male Voice singing, especially the hymn tunes, and look forward
to your next CD with keen anticipation.
Jeff Stone. Blackburn, Lancashire
I have recently bought your CD Voices of the Valley. I can't
stop playing it, I have it on everytime I get in my car. I buy
lots of CD's but your's is the best of them all. I read an article
about the Fron Male Voice Choir in the Lancashire Telegraph
and thought I must have that CD. Good luck for the future. I
can't wait for your next recording.
Rod and Barbara Spriggs,
Shrewsbury
We attended the Voices of the Valley concert at Rhyl last Thursday
night having bought the CD some weeks ago. The evening was truly
memorable and the sound that the choir produce can only be described
as beautiful. Thanks to everyone involved for giving us such
a wonderful evening.
Ann, Rhyl
Never have I enjoyed any evening so much. I could have sat through
the entire performance again. Fantastic! You sang Deep Harmony
which brought tears to my eyes it was so beautiful. Please include
this on your next recording. I am not Welsh and only have a
limited knowledge of the language, but music is beautiful in
any language and you don't have to understand the words to be
moved. Thank you again
John Botwright
Went to your concert at Llandudno last
night with my 86 year old mother in law - she actually knew
a couple of the "boys" from her school days. What
a wonderful evening we had. The tears rolled down her cheeks
as you sang songs that brought back such happy memories for
her. Keep up the good work and once again thank you so much.
Karen Sinclair AM, Clwyd
South
After attending the wonderful concert last night in Wrexham
I felt compelled to let you know what an enjoyable evening it
was. Please pass on my thanks to all the choir members. With
all best wishes.
George, Wrexham
Fantastic album and great vocalists but don't you think you
were at the right place at the right time!
Steve Allsup. Chairman, Cotswold
Male Voice Choir
On behalf of the Cotswold Male Voice Choir, I wanted to say
"Well Done to Fron" because your recent success has
done much to promote the cause of male voice choirs everywhere.
Your repertoire is very similar to ours and we have had people
requesting music because it is on your CD. If any of your members
are ever in Gloucestershire, pop in and see us at one of our
rehearsals or one of concerts. We're a happy band and we always
find time for a beer afterwards. In fact, some of our regular
supporters describe us a "Drinking Club with a Singing
Problem" ! Best wishes to all our fellow singers at Fron.
Sarah
First I like to say well done for selling so many CD's, they're
fantastic. Is it possible I could get all your autographs please?
Margaret and Brian Bassnett
Please pass on to all of the Choir our thanks for a fabulous,
emotional and unforgetable evening at The Phil on Tuesday last.
A request or three for your next CD please. Calon Lan, Cwm Rhondda
and Myfanwy. All three songs have a special place in our hearts
and they were my mum's favourites (she would have been 100 in
May). Keep up the good work. God bless you all.
Linda and Emily Thornhill,
Newton le Willows, Merseyside
Just to let you know that we really enjoyed the concert in the
Royal Philharmonic Hall in Liverpool tonight. It was my mother's
day present from my daughter, who accompanied me. I notice you
are performing in Rhosllanerchrugog, my ancestors are from that
village and we intend to visit there to try and savour the atmosphere.
One of the lullabies you sang, was sung to me by my great grandmother
as well as "The Welsh Home". Happy St David's Day
and good luck with the rest of the tour. Hope you enjoyed visiting
our great city, we certainly enjoyed your performance.
Mrs Morris, Liverpool
It was absolutely marvellous, for 2 hours I felt like I was
on a different planet. I looked around the auditorium and could
see how much pleasure everybody was getting- it was magical.
I certainly hope that we don't have to wait too long before
you make a return visit.
Betty Hodgson, Liverpool
First of all, thank you so much for taking the time to talk
to us during the interval at Liverpool. You really are as happy
in person as you appear on stage! Now, will you please pass
on my congratulations and very best wishes and thanks to Ann
and all the boys for an evening of sheer and absolute magic.
Together, you all have a God given gift, not only to entertain,
but also to touch the emotional depths of your audience. Your
obvious enjoyment and love of what you do shines through. Long
may you continue!! I look forward to seeing you all at a future
concert and eagerly await the next CD (definitely another No.1)
Take care and love to you all.
Margaret, Cheshire
We were at The Bridgewater Hall Feb 25. What a truly memorable
evening. As an old Trevorite I must admit I was unable to recognise
many of the choristers, probably too old, the majority were
younger than I am. I wish you every success.
Chris Baker
Firstly may I say how much I and my brother in law and his wife
enjoyed the concert on Saturday in Bradford. My son had bought
me the CD for Christmas and it was nice to see everyone in the
flesh, so to speak. My only comment is that having paid £25
to see the concert, programmes were priced at £8 each,
which both my brother in law and myself felt was slightly steep,
so neither of us purchased one. If they had been say £4/5,
then you would have had a further two sales. I trust you don't
mind me writing to you on this point. I accept touring is not
cheap, but I feel that your popularity depends on the buying
public and by trying to charge what I feel is a high price for
a programme does not go down well. Best Wishes for a successful
2007.
Reply from the
Fron Choir Treasurer Allan Smith - Thank
you so much for taking the time to write - it's really great
to receive so many e-mails. You make a very valid point about
the programmes. The pricing of tickets, programmes, and other
ancillaries were determined by the production company 'Production
North' and 'SMJ Concerts'. We had no say in the matter and were
surprised ourselves! all we had to do was "turn up and
sing". So, sorry if that in any way lessened your enjoyment.
We enjoyed it immensely and it was a great start to our tour.
Keith Shaw, Houghton Main
Male Voice Choir
Very many thanks for a very, very, enjoyable evening last Saturday
in Bradford. My wife and I thought that the varied programme
was excellent particularly "Tom Tom" and "Lazy
Bones". I must try and introduce them to my Choir. I didn't
have the opportunity to come for a chat on Saturday, and I presume
you were busy preparing for the performance-- perhaps another
time! Many thanks also for the "happy Birthday" Chorus-
totally unexpected- but well received. I shall look forward
to having your next C D. With best wishes for the Choirs future
and continued success.
David & Lorna Riley
My wife and I have just arrived home, from the concert in Bradford.
What a wonderful evening. We sat next to a lady whose husband
was in the choir, Mrs Glyn Hesketh. I would just like to thank
everyone for making a perfect evening. PS Hope the rest of your
tour goes well.
Jonathan Craig
Congratulations on an excellent CD, I really enjoy it. Just
wondering if you had planned to release any more in the near
future?
Gill Carrington
I just wanted to write and tell you how much my Mum and Dad
enjoyed the "Parky" Show when you accompanied Katherine
Jenkins.
Brian, Llanfair Caereinion
I recently moved to Llanfair Caereinion. I¹ve struck a
friendship with a Jerry Gittens, also now living in Llanfair;
he¹s a charming old chap who still speaks with great pride
of the "old days" when he sang with the Fron Male
Voice Choir. I hear that your choir is to sing in Llanfair on
5th May. I can¹t think of a better present for him than
to take him along there to hear you sing and reminisce about
his glory days.
Cyril Bowler, Scunthorpe
Well done Fron Choir. It gives me so much pleasure to listen
to the choir singing with so much passion as only the Welsh
can do, once again Fron Choir, you sing, we Welsh will listen,
very well done.
Chris
As an ex probationer on the choir, I sadly had to leave (long
story) but this choir is the best. They have wonderful members
and everyone who is working in the background does a lot for
them. My only hope is to rejoin them one day.
Peter Davies
Would like to congratulate you on a wonderful CD. I hope you
go on to make more CD's or even better a dvd Especially for
people who cant get too see your performances and it would generate
revenue for the choir at the same time. I was brought up in
Penycae but moved away nearly 30 years ago and hearing your
voices and the songs on your CD. made me feel like I was back
home amongst them rolling hills, so once again thank you for
a lovely CD. and hope you do get to make more, I would be first
in the queue to buy more.
Fred Schofield, Southend
on Sea
I remember, when I was a travel consultant organising a tour
for the Fron to southern Holland. They took part in a joint
concert in Maastricht with another Dutch choir. I am now a member
of Leigh on Sea Orpeus Male Voice Choir myself. . I was looking
at all the CD Albums listed in my local ASDA store. The Fron
is at no.34 BUT this is the only one of the whole list that
is SOLD OUT! What an achievement! Well done.
Pauline Le Page
We have just purchased 'Voices of the Valley', it is beautiful!!
Are the Choir intending to record any more for us to enjoy?
Particularly 'Men of Harlech' and 'Battle Hymn of The Republic'
and 'Amazing Grace'? Incidentally, was it Anne singing on the
CD.? Thank you all for the enjoyment you are giving to my husband
and I. Regards
Graham Heathcote, Ilfracombe
Good luck lads what a fantastic CD. Dymuniadau gorau.
David de Young, Minnesota, USA
Was introduced to the lads' music by my friend Norma while in
Wrexham last month. The CD sounded heavenly while in Wales,
so I brought one home to America where it is loved as well.
As a Christmas gift to my parents, it was one of their favourites
David Whelan, Windermere
I have just listened to my newly purchased copy of 'Voices of
The Valley'. Magnificent. Will the choir be making any more?
M&J Vaughan, Nantwich
Cheshire
Well done Ann and the lads. We are both thrilled with your achievements.
We never thought that the Fron Choir would be competing with
the Scissors Sisters! But there we are, enjoy your success.
We purchased your album on day 1.
Paul Pearce-Smith
Just to tell you that I received "Voices Of The Valley"
as Christmas present. It is a thoroughly enjoyable CD., and
raises the hair on the back of my neck in a lot of cases. Keep
up the good work, and long may you enjoy your singing and the
companionship that a choir can bring. Any chance that you may
be coming to Northern Ireland at any time?
Helen Lovgren, Portland Oregon
While visiting our son in London at Christmastime, my husband
was given a beautiful gift Voices of the Valley. Since returning
home to Portland, Oregon (USA), I have played no other CD. for
the past month. I am total "addicted" to this fantastic
collection I play it in the car and at home, and I have introduced
friends and family to your group! Thank you for this lovely
gift of music it's a spiritual experience!
Rhiannon, Chichester
My sons bought me the CD. for my recent birthday and I've hardly
stopped playing it since (came in very handy when I was typing
my husband's dissertation through the night!). We'll try to
get to Birmingham but will keep a look out on your site, as
you suggest. I think concerts would sell out at the Chichester
Festival Theatre (great acoustics!) and nearby Worthing and
Fareham have good concert halls. My youngest, born in Wales,
is putting together something for and with his classmates on
a Welsh theme for St David's day soon and no doubt Fron's Mae
Hen Wlad will get things off to a great start! Well done, all
of you, on your much-deserved success. Dymuniadau gorau.
Malcolm Head, Surrey
Just wanted to say thank you for a wonderful, wonderful CD.
I bought it for my wife for Christmas and have just listened
to it for the first time. It reduced me to tears! We have lived
in England 45 years but Wales is still 'home'. If the next offering
is as good as this, you are surely destined for international
success. Good luck and thank you once again for 45 minutes (actually
90 because I played it right through again) of pure bliss.
Paul, Maryland, US
I saw the report on BBC yesterday and the song "Sailing"
was beautiful. I know when I hear those beautiful voices, I
will be brought to tears. I really look forward to buying their
CD and sharing it with others as well as seeing the movie. Thank
you very much for such a inspiring gift of music.
Chris Davies, Lytham St Annes
As another local lad, now an ex-pat living in Lancashire, it's
always good to be reminded of your roots & the people you
grew up with. My Taid (Grandfather to you non-Welsh) was J R
Davies, & both my Father & Uncle, Haydn & Merfyn
Davies were members of the choir for a long period. Alas, now
both passed over, I'm sure they'd be proud of how the choir
is finally achieving the accolade it deserves. I'm obviously
biased, since my brother Stephen carries on the family tradition
of representing the Davies family in the choir for a 3rd generation.
Well done to you all!
Steve Beech, New York. USA
Wonderful! What a great choir. Bring back great memories. Wishing
you luck in the future, and keep recording. (Ex Price of Wales
Company, Welsh Guards)
Paul Edwards, St Neots Cambs
Once a Froner always a Froner, good to see that now the rest
of the world knows what the locals have always known - Best
Choir in the World. Congratulations Boys from "Down South".
Moira Edwards, Ludlow
I live in a small village called Downton on the Rock, six miles
from the county town of Ludlow. A while ago our dear friend
Olive had bought a CD. of a wonderful choir. "Oh we must
have them she exclaimed," (to perform at the church) meanwhile
this wonderful choir have become very famous. So maybe they
would be to busy or to expensive to come. We raise funds for
our church Fabric fund, (St. Giles) We have fought tooth and
nail to keep our church open and now have turned things around,
through bloody mindedness and hard work. We would love to have
some of your wonderful choir to come along.
Menna Jones, Wrexham.
Ardderchog! Excellent! Llongyfarchiadau i Ann a'r bechgyn! Congratulations
to Ann and the boys! It is good to see such hard work and dedication
rewarded. I have long been a fan of the choir and I'm particularly
fond of your version of 'The Rose'.
Patrick Thornton, Dublin, Ireland
I love the album, it's a breath of fresh air, and I think Sailing
& You'll Never Walk Alone make the album all the better.
Hope to see & hear you over Christmas.
Dafydd Jones, exiled in County
Durham
As Wilfred Jones' grandson it's great that the choir he was
so proud to have helped form is having the success it deserves.
Congratulations. P.S. Is Brad Pitt lined up to play him in the
film?
AJ de Haan & Marieke
Tetteroo, Hertogenbosch
Ann and Chaps; a truly great album. What a result and how deserved
after all those hours of hard work. We congratulate you. Since
we bought it the CD is either in the player at home or in the
car. Thank you for this great performance.
Tony & Beverley Wheaton
( and Eddie the Oyster)
Will you please pass our congratulations on to your whole choir
on your superb CD. which we were lucky enough to receive as
a Xmas present. Could you please pass our sincere best wishes
to Ann Atkinson with whom we shared a memorable Lions tour to
New Zealand-the CD. and hearing her singing brought great memories
flooding back. Our very best wishes for your continued success
in 2007 and beyond,
Dr Phillip Cooper Antigonish,
Nova Scotia
I will be visiting my father Bill Cooper (a proud Vron alumnus!)
for a few days this April. I will be travelling from my home
in Nova Scotia Canada with my wife Simone and we will probably
also be accompanied by my mother Marjorie. You might be interested
to know that the Vron Choir was a topic of conversation at a
New Year's Eve party we attended here in Antigonish last night
- Jack O'Donnell (music director of the Men of the Deeps Choir
from Cape Breton) and I were both delighted to receive copies
of 'Voices of the Valley' from Santa Claus! Jack had also seen
a TV documentary about the choir. I have lived in Canada for
more than 20 years and I remain an active chorister and choir
director, although my 'day job' is as a General Surgeon. Best
wishes for your continued success, looking forward to future
recordings of your core repertoire (a capella!), a very happy
new year to you all and hoping to see you in April.
Norma Weekes
Wonderful. I have played it so many times. Even my non-Welsh
friends enjoy it. The piano at the beginning is magical. I was
born in Chirk, went to Llangollen Grammar School and was an
usher at the Eisteddfod 1950/51. R.T.Jones who was in the choir
was my boss at Ceiriog RDC. I took some of my family to the
Eisteddfod last year to the male voice concert and they are
all enchanted by your wonderful sounds. Incidentally my maiden
name was Butler. I am now going to try and get tickets for your
concert in Birmingham Best wishes,
Karen Miller
I am writing regarding my Father who will be 70 this year in
June and who is a huge admirer of the Fron Male Choir, I bought
him your CD for Christmas and he is absolutely made up with
it. Many thanks.
Malcolm, Eastbourne
A week ago, I was in the depths of despair, as I am in the throes
of a divorce, after forty long years of marriage. I wandered
into The Music Zone record Shop in Eastbourne, where by chance
I spotted the "Voices Of The Valley" album in their
"New Releases" section and picked it up to have a
Listen in Store, as I have a Welsh Middle Name "Gwyn",
although I am not Welsh and for some reason I do enjoy songs
in the Welsh Language, even though I only know three Welsh words,
my belated father's middle name "Llewellyn", "Gwyn"
and of course, "Llanfairpwllgwyngyllgogerychymdrobwyllllantysiliogogoch"!
In the event, after listening to just a couple of tracks, I
was so impressed that I bought two copies of the album and I
have hardly stopped listening to this wonderful team effort
and have posted my views on the Katie Melua Forum, to initial
scorn when I said that I believed it would make it into The
UK Album Chart, which of course it most deservedly has. I sent
my second copy to a friend in Germany and he admitted that he
was surprised that I sent him an album of that genre of music,
as he had never, ever heard a Welsh Male Voice Choir in his
life, but he and his wife were completely bowled over by the
soul stirring renditions. This album has been a great solace
to me already, so please pass my thanks on to Ann Atkinson and
the Boys from The Vale of Llangollen for a Musical Masterpiece.
Margaret McLean
I recently saw the TV advert for your CD and knew that I wanted
to buy it. I purchased it on my next visit to the City centre
and have not stopped playing it since. The music is out of this
world and has brought me much pleasure. Although I do not understand
the Welsh language, I also enjoyed the Welsh songs. Looking
forward to the next CD.
Tom Jones
God bless the chaps in their chart success. My late father was
in the choir 1947/48. My mother is still alive. This what we
call a real boy band.
Mr & Mrs E Roberts
We have just bought the CD and thought it was excellent especially
You Raise Me Up in Welsh. We think the choir deserve their success
especially the older ones who have been with the choir through
thick & thin. Keep up the good work. See you in Hollywood!
Sue Mayes, Banbury
I have just received the first CD, having followed the exciting
story of the 'discovery' of the choir. Love the disc but may
I just pass on a comment: please put more Welsh songs on future
discs. (Where is Myfanwy? Or many of the great Welsh hymns?)
Wonderful to have a Welsh MVC going into the charts so let's
show fans more of the best, please? Good luck with it all.
Bill Evans
I, together with Dennis Williams, was a founder member of the
choir. Apart from the people already mentioned I think that
J R Davies should receive an accolade. He lived for the choir
and was responsible for keeping it together when the conductor
Lloyd Edwards was in hospital for a few months. J R, although
not a professional musician, did a brilliant job conducting
the choir and giving a creditable performance at the Llangollen
International Eisteddfod. Fron choir owes its existence to :-
Gomer Powell, Lloyd Edwards, J R Davies, Wilfred Jones, Bob
Hughes and Menna Hughes.
Ian Gough, Tainant
First congratulations to the best Choir in Wales on the CD and
second to my Dad GREN GOUGH a founder member and the longest
serving member of the Choir - a great achievement. And lets
not forget the backroom staff the Ladies Committee and the wives
/ girl friends. WELL DONE LADS.
Mark Hill, Chirk
Congrats to all in the Fron Choir, my Dad was a member from
the late 60's till his death in 1982, have always wondered why
international acclaim missed you all, now it will come in leaps
and bounds. Fantastic music through all the years, and you still
have that magic sound and feel, that you give to each piece,
making it your own and wowing the audience.
Jessica
hi my name is Jessica and my Granddad was in the Fron choir
for a number of years under two conductors Lloyd Edwards and
John Daniel. My Granddad's name is Haydn Powell of Rhosymedre.
Reg Jones, Shrewsbury
Come and sing at the new meadow next year boys.
Julie Young, Acrefair.
From a VERY proud auntie Jue, to Mark Williams, and all the
boys who are in the best choir in the world, loads of love and
well done.
John Evans, Acrefair
As a former member of Fron Choir, I'm delighted that the choir
is not only surviving, but thriving, and as Stage Manager at
Llangollen International Musical Eisteddfod, I'm pleased to
welcome the boys (old friends & new), every time that they
compete!
Julie Edwards - Cyprus (but really
a Rhos girl!!)
This is fantastic! I can't wait to see you all here in Cyprus
to celebrate your 60th Anniversary. Having spent a few years
as your accompanist, I fully understand what Ann has to put
up with in organising you all!!! All the best boys. xx
John & Irene Coates, Adelaide Australia
Congratulations , well done and well deserved, it is just great
news, "good on you" as they say down-under.
John and Irene Vernon-Jones
This is a great choir. My Uncle Edward Jones(Ned) was a member
of this choir right from the beginning, he died during choir
practice one night. I am so glad for all of you good luck.
Don Jones (Delph) Gainsborough
For most of my life Male Voice Choirs have been a passion with
me. I have a very old LP of Fron Choir with none other than
David Hart singing solo. I am now looking forward to obtaining
a copy of this CD which I know will be first class.
John Hughes Roberts
Good Luck with the CD. Congratulations! Your choir will be great
ambassadors of music home and abroad and will be world known
from now on. Ann Atkinson is a wonderful conductor and singer
and a great asset to you all.
David Hart, Acrefair/Cefn
As an old member of the Fron Choir, I was delighted to hear
of their good news, and wish them all success in the future.
To my old friends who are still singing with them, I would say
"Tiddler" would be proud of you! Good Luck.
Terry Smith, Chester
I had the privilege of attending the Fron Male Voice Choir's
concert Songs of the Shows on Saturday 21 October. It was the
first choir concert that I've ever attended. My wife and I were
curious after all publicity the choir have attracted with their
new CD and we were not disappointed. Leyland Band and the Fron
Male Voice Choir must be congratulated on a thoroughly professional
and entertaining concert and both more than deserved the standing
ovation given to them at the end of the concert. We are now
new converts to Male Voice singing, I am not surprised that
Daniel Glatman was so moved when he first heard them. We are
looking forward to the release of the Choir's CD in November
and their concert in the William Aston Hall in March.
Barry +Jan Hughes, Cefn
To the Fron choir, wishing you every success! Barry + Jan Hughes
(Cefn)
F.W. New Zealand
For Nigel Francis (Snigs) To the
funniest man in the Cefn - keep up the fantastic singing with
the best choir in the world but more important keep up that
Cefn humour that you ooze with natural flair that makes everyone's
face ache with laughter whilst in your company - take care..
Kathleen Hatchett nee Rowlands
What an achievement - good on you boys. My Taid was in the choir
way back in the early days. His name was Lloyd Morgan. Hope
you do very well - lots of luck.
Ivan Grixti, - Malta
I am currently in Southampton on a PhD visit and I was viewing
the BBC Breakfast show this morning. I was really struck by
the lovely melody of this choir. Well done and I look forward
to purchasing a CD with their tracks. Keep it up and best wishes
for the coming years.
Mike Connolly
Well done - Ann Atkinson and your 'boys'. Da iawn !
Colin Hockridge, York
What great news for all lovers of Male Voice Choirs! With all
best wishes to the boys from York Philharmonic Male Voice Choir
(founded 1925)
.
Kath Jones/Cefn Mawr/USA
I would like to commend all the members of the Choir, not only
for their remarkable achievements in the past, (entertaining
the local people in the Eisteddfods and other venues) but for
the humble and gracious attitude they have exhibited upon their
upcoming notoriety.
Phil Beaumont - Forge Recording Studio
Proud to be a part of this wonderful new album I am sure it
will be great success!
Jon Cohen
It was a pleasure and an honour recording the Fron choir for
this album. Best of luck boys!
John Voller, Kent
What a fantastic news story, and what a sound - this new version
of Sailing breathes new majesty into a classic song. Congratulations
to the Fron boys!
Adrian Taylor, Costa del
Sol
I have been listening to your latest album and I just love your
Welsh version of "You Raise Me Up".
Lundie and Sue Hall
We love the CD and wonder whether you are planning any dates
a bit nearer to London! We really hope you are! A very Merry
Christmas to you all.
M Edwards
Just bought the CD - brilliant, brings a lump to your throat!
Any plans for an album "tour"? Do you cover any of
the album in the Christmas Carol concert at Llangollen.
Stephen France
Firstly, congratulations on a fantastic CD, both my Dad and
I think it is excellent! You say on your website that visitors
are always welcome to come along to your rehearsals at Acrefair
School Hall. I was just wondering if you still rehearse every
Monday and Thursday and if the invitation is still open. I would
really like to bring my Dad along; he is a massive fan of all
Choir music.
Evelyn Morris,Hereford
I just thought I would let you know that I have just been listening
to the CD ", Mae oedd yn braf iawn, ac yr ydwyn fi un crio
fel babi "!! I am exiled in Hereford, so I can be reminded
of home when I listen to the "Boys ".Please congratulate
them on such wonderful music, may they long continue !! North
Wales should be proud of them I shall be buying extra tissues,
as I also have a couple of CDs of Côr Godrer Aran,!!!!
I was a native of those parts when I was a little girl, but
ended up on Ynys Môn when my father was Vicar of Holyhead.
So as you can guess, my heart is still very much in North Wales.
Cofion Cynes
Mike Rogers, Scotland
Bought your CD in Inverness today and just been listening to
it. Awesome, bloody awesome, the sound is just fantastic, this
is one listener blown away. Best regards
No Name
We were fortunate to win a copy of your CD in a competition
with Radio Gloucestershire on Sunday morning, which we picked
up today. What a wonderful set of songs and so well performed
we were both very impressed with the rich tones the choir achieved.
Congratulations!
Dee Jones
Ron, my husband, who is originally from Ystradgynlais and therefore
Welsh speaking sings solo with various groups on numerous occasions
during the year around Gloucestershire. One song he has recently
added to his repertoire is You Raise me Up and to hear your
version in Welsh was a real pleasure. He often sings a verse
or two in Welsh and always finds someone who is exiled from
Wales is in the audience
Janet Baggaley
I have just bought your 'Voices of The Valley' album and I think
it is absolutely wonderful. So spiritually uplifting to hear
music of this quality. I shall be recommending it to everyone
I know. You've done a brilliant job. Happy Christmas and lots
of luck in the New Year to you all.
Chris
Hi, after Christmas my wife and I would dearly like to attend
one of your choir practices, we will be travelling from Ludlow.
We were wondering if we may bring our little Westie, he is well
behaved and never off his lead when out, thanks.
Robert Herbert, Birmingham
Switched on by chance Wednesday 18th October 2006 - made my
day - fantastic. How do I get your CD?
Barry Jones, St. Petersburg,
Florida
Great to see reports on your CD showing on BBC America. How
can I get a copy?
Walter Pitchford
I am a member of the Mansfield and District Male Voice Choir
from Nottinghamshire and we have a very valuable Member who
is seriously ill in the local hospice and is not expected to
be with us very much longer. His favourite song is "The
Rose" and I think every member of our Choir has bought
a copy of your C.D. with it on. We have been today and sung
it to him but have not yet got the male voice setting for it.
His wish is to purchase it for the choir and I am trying to
get 45 copies so that the family can donate it to the choir
in his memory.