Aberdare is ‘Town of Song’

As Caradog Fest takes over Aberdare town centre this weekend, MPs mark the achievements of Caradog and the status of Aberdare as a town of song.

Cynon Valley MP Beth Winter has tabled a motion at the House of Commons to celebrate the achievements of Griffith Rhys Jones, ‘Caradog’ and Y Côr Mawr and congratulate the organisers of the 2022 Caradog Fest in Aberdare.

The motion has now been signed by other MPs, including Neath MP Christina Rees, former Plaid MP Jonathan Edwards and former shadow chancellor John McDonnell.

This week marks the relaunching of Caradog Fest, with the festival celebrating Aberdare’s musical history with a series of events at venues across Aberdare.

Choirs from Abercynon, Cwmbach, Cwmdare, Glynneath, Pelenna and Treharris will descend on Aberdare for the choral festival.

Beth Winter MP congratulated the organising committee for their work and their commitment to Aberdare’s status as the town of song.

Winter said, ‘Wales has a proud musical tradition, and Aberdare sits squarely at the centre of that tradition.’

‘We haven’t always shouted loudly enough about our achievements in the valleys, and I’m determined to do my bit to promote and celebrate our musical heritage, which is second to none’.

‘That’s why I’m delighted that the organisers of Caradog Fest have been so proactive and come together to ensure that Caradog’s legacy is remembered and built upon and to celebrate Aberdare’s status as the Town of Song.’

Dave Manning from the Caradog Fest organising committee said, ‘After Caradog won his prestigious first prize at the National choral competition in London, Queen Victoria uttered those famous words, “Wales truly is the land of song”.’

‘We are proud and privileged to continue this tradition by organising this 150th anniversary celebration of his achievement in Aberdare, the town where it all started, now rightfully known as the town of song.’

Jim Bradley from Our Aberdare Bid added, ‘Our Aberdare BID along with Pen y cymoedd wind farm have funded this festival which has been talked about for many years and it is hoped to repeat this event annually and build on this year’s hard work.’

‘Aberdare’s reputation as a town of song is well deserved and there is a rich history of success which should be celebrated annually. If anyone can persuade the Stereophonics to perform in future years, I’m sure Aberdare would be placed on the world map!’

Find out more about the festival here;- the website is here: https://www.caradogfest.com