A celebratory concert for the late Professor William Mathias, one of Wales’ most esteemed composers, will be held at Bangor University’s Neuadd Prichard Jones at 7:30 p.m. on Saturday, November 2. Mathias, who passed away in 1992 at age 57, was born in Whitland, Carmarthenshire, and began his musical journey early, playing the piano at three and composing by five. His work earned him worldwide recognition, including the 1981 anthem Let the People Praise Thee, O God, created for the wedding of Prince Charles and Princess Diana.
The concert is a collaboration between Bangor University’s School of Music, Canolfan Gerdd William Mathias (the William Mathias Music Centre), and the Gwynedd and Anglesey Schools Music Service. Dr. Rhiannon Mathias, a musicologist and Professor Mathias’ daughter, noted, “The idea of the concert came from the community, and it’s a wonderful way to celebrate what would have been his 90th birthday. Prichard Jones Hall, where he worked for many years, is the perfect setting.”
The evening will feature a mix of organ, flute, harp, and piano solos, alongside choral pieces by Côr Dre from Caernarfon, directed by Sian Wheway. The highlight of the evening will be a performance of Culhwch ac Olwen, a choral and instrumental work based on a Mabinogion love story.
Wyn Thomas, chair of Canolfan Gerdd William Mathias, reflected on the occasion’s goal: “To honor William Mathias’s immense contribution to Welsh music.” He added, “Mathias was a prolific composer with a particular focus on choral and vocal music, and his legacy includes building a distinguished music department at Bangor.”
Tudur Eames, director of the Gwynedd and Anglesey Schools Music Service, will conduct Culhwch ac Olwen. He described the piece as a blend of musical elements with a storyteller, instruments, two pianos, and children’s voices to bring the legend to life.
Tickets are available at £12, or £10 for concessions, and £5 for students and children.
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