Eisteddfod to host two special Christmas concerts

* The NEW Sinfonia orchestra stars at the Christmas concerts.

Llangollen International Musical Eisteddfod is continuing its partnership with North Wales professional orchestra NEW Sinfonia to stage two Christmas concerts promoting peace.

In aid of a refugee charity and the Eisteddfod itself, these will be in the Pavilion on Saturday December 23, at 12.30pm and 3.30pm, and also feature performances by New Voices, an inclusive creative vocal ensemble that brings together people from all walks of life united in their passion for singing and building a sense of community.

Refugees from Ukraine will lead, sing and perform alongside NEW Sinfonia.

Each concert will culminate with a performance of the iconic festive film, The Snowman, with the music performed live by NEW Sinfonia.

The special concerts have the twin aim of providing a magical experience for families at Christmas together with a message of peace and reconciliation.   

They follow on from the critically-acclaimed White Flower (Lleisiau Llan) concert at the Eisteddfod in July.

Robert Guy, NEW Sinfonia's co-artistic director, said: “Llangollen International Music Eisteddfod has long been the cornerstone of the cultural landscape in North Wales and we believe our organisations are naturally placed to work together promoting peace.  

"We are also continuing our work with refugees from Ukraine who will be leading our performances which we hope will be truly magical.  

"This concert will be truly breath-taking and we can’t wait to present The Snowman like people in Llangollen haven’t seen before.”

Eisteddfod life vice-president Keith Potts said: “The White Flower concert in July was amazing and promoted our ethos of peace and reconciliation.  

"This message is as relevant as it was when we started our Eisteddfod in 1947.  

"We are delighted to be continuing our partnership with NEW Sinfonia this Christmas.  

"These concerts are not to be missed and we believe people will have a magical experience whilst remembering those who are don’t enjoy the peace we do in the UK.”

* For tickets to either concert, go to: https://www.newsinfonia.org.uk/