Morriston’s progressive Phoenix Male Choir is keeping the promise it made when it was founded 2 years ago that it would work in the community and help to preserve the tradition of Welsh choral singing. The choir has already taken part in community events throughout Swansea but now is extending its activities into schools.

On Thursday, 28^th May the first session will take place in Cefn Hengoed School, Bonymaen  at 6.15 and on successive Thursdays.

Musical Director, Siȃn Pearce said “We have been working on this for some months and I am most grateful to the Director of Music, Philip Emanuel for his advice and cooperation. We are also very grateful to the Assembly Government’s

Communities First Programme for providing an initial grant to enable us to start this scheme. This grant is, however, limited so we welcome any ideas or offers of further sponsorship.

I must also thank the Headteachers and their staff who have given us their cooperation, particularly at Cefn Hengoed and Morriston. We aim to complement the work already done in schools to promote music.

Many young people are enthused and excited by what they see on television when their contemporaries show off their talents. Joining a choir can be the first step in a musical career. Choristers learn the essentials of music, singing and blending with those around them. We are looking for young people from 11-18, male and female. So come along on the 28^th and give it a try.

My team are very keen to start work with these youngsters and all the necessary permissions and CRB checks have been completed.”

Choir Spokesperson, Bill Kenny added” I started my musical education in Merseyside in the 60s. Belonging to a choir has taken me all over the British Isles and to a variety of countries including the USA and Australia. Many of my follow choristers have similar experiences. What a tremendous thrill it has been to sing, as a mere amateur, in places like Sydney Opera House, Carnegie Hall, New York .

Young people are obviously very interested in music. We will help them develop so that they have more choices ahead. Naturally we hope that some of the boys will join us in the Phoenix Choir, perhaps not immediately but in the future.

Any young person interested in the Youth Choir can call Emma Gordon on 07531 260 931 for further details