World wishes Llangollen a happy St David's Day

* Welsh folk superstars Calan, who headline the 'Wales Welcomes the World' concert at the core Llangollen Eisteddfod on July 3, are amongst those who have sent St David's Day messages.

St David's Day messages from America, Canada, China, the Czech Republic and Japan will be beamed to Llangollen at a special Gamanfa Ganu held this Sunday at St Collen’s Church. 

The messages have been sent by competitors and performers heading to Wales this summer for the Llangollen International Musical Eisteddfod. 

The night will feature conductor Trystan Lewis and Shea Ferron of Johns’ Boys Male Chorus, as well as the celebrated Derwent Harp School. 

Others who have sent messages for the evening include Broadway star John Owen-Jones, and Welsh folk superstars Calan, both of whom will be heading to Llangollen in July to perform evening concerts during the Core Eisteddfod Week. 

Over the past few weeks, competitors have been sending in their St David’s Day messages for the event. This includes videos from dance groups, community bands, children’s choirs, a rock band, and a male voice choir. 

Vice-Chair of the Llangollen International Musical Eisteddfod John Gambles said: "These messages will make our St David's Day Gamnfa Ganu even more special. This Sunday night, people can expect an amazing traditional Welsh evening, backed up by some tremendous performances sent in from across the World. We would like to thank everyone who sent messages for St David's Day."

The Gymanfa Ganu is an integral part of the Welsh heritage. It is a unique feature of Welsh music - a festival of sacred hymns sung by the audience in four-part harmony under the direction of a choral conductor.   

Elen Mair Roberts, a member of the Music and Staging committee, said: “We are delighted to have secured the services of Trystan Lewis. He is a very popular and highly experienced choral director, and we’re delighted that he will be leading our St David’s Day celebrations in Llangollen. If you have never been to a Gymanfa Ganu you’re in for a real treat.” 

Tickets, priced £10, are available from llangollen.net and from the Llangollen Tourist Information Centre. You can also pay on the night. Doors open at 7pm. The event will raise money for the Llangollen International Musical Eisteddfod charity.