“Welsh Dan Brown” sets thriller in West Wales

Cardiff author Peter Luther has just launched his second novel, The Mourning Vessels. It is loosely located in his favourite town of Tenby. The fast paced supernatural thriller is based on the machinations of a Satanic coven –The Divine Sentiment and the story follows the main character Ellen’s quest to unriddle their sinister operations and free the souls of her dead parents.

Peter Luther’s first novel Dark Covenant has already been reprinted twice by Ceredigion based publishers Y Lolfa, and earned him the tag of the “Welsh Dan Brown”. It was described as a “word of mouth sensation” in the Times and other reviewers have described his work as “macabre and compelling”, “a real page turner with a twist of Oscar Wild”, “genre hopping rollercoaster ride” with many tipping him for bigger things.

Although he is a new face, he has built a loyal band of underground followers, as testified by the response to his first book on his website www.peterluther.co.uk. His fans will be pleased to hear that Peter revealed at the launch of Mourning Vessels, in Waterstone’s Cardiff , that he has already written his third novel Precious Cargo and hopes to see it published next year.

Peter Luther, a successful solicitor and an accomplished musician, admits that his fictional work is influenced by his personal experiences, his latest born from the tragic loss of both his parents and his next relates to his wife’s experiences of receiving IVF treatment. He will be touring bookshops throughout Britain in November and December.

The Mourning Vessels in available in bookshops and www.ylolfa.com priced at £7.95.

Peter Luther will be signing copies of Mourning Vessels at the following shops in November

November 1 November
Waterstones, 9-11 Regent Street Wrexham at 11:00am – 1:00pm
Waterstones, 14 Eastgate Row, Chester at 2:30pm – 4:30pm
8 November
Waterstones Nottingham, 1-5 Bridlesmith Gate, Nottingham at 11:00am – 1:00pm
15 November
Waterstones, 4a High Street, Abergavenny at 11:00am – 1:00pm
Borders, New Park Shopping Centre, Llantrisant at 2:30pm – 4:30pm
22 November
Borders, 14 The Hayes, Cardiff at 1:30pm – 3:30pm
29 November
Waterstones Chiswick, 220-226 Chiswick High Road, Chiswick at 11:30am – 1:30pm



December and January dates to be confirmed

Fatal Neglect: Who Killed Dylan Thomas?

Fatal Neglect: Who Killed Dylan Thomas? is published by Seren on November 9 2008, the 55th anniversary of the death. £9.99, ISBN 978-1-85411-480-8. It is now available from local bookstores, internet book suppliers or direct from www.seren-books.com. It will be many months before it appears in the US and other countries, so the internet and the Seren website are your best bets.

From the Back Cover:-

Dylan Thomas went to New York in October 1953 to perform in Under Milk Wood. Three weeks later, he was dead. This fascinating book confronts painful facts about why he died.

Neglect was central to the death. John Brinnin, Dylan’s agent, had a playboy lifestyle to fund. Desperate for his fees, he turned a blind eye to the poet’s failing health.

Liz Reitell, Brinnin’s zealous deputy, also knew Dylan was ill but she worked him to collapse. Did she put her own career before his well-being? Brinnin’s intimate papers show how greed, ambition and sexual intrigue fed into a chain of events that sent Dylan to an early grave.

Dylan suffered from a treatable illness but his fashionable New York doctor ignored the warning signs. David Thomas examines hospital data and the post-mortem report – included in the book – and shows that medical negligence was a factor.

Fatal Neglect also investigates the conspiracy to protect those responsible. Friends and doctors took part in a cover-up, as did two of Dylan’s American biographers.

David Thomas’ previous books on Dylan Thomas have required us to rethink the poet’s life. Fatal Neglect is a fundamental reappraisal of his death.

David Thomas was brought up in Pontarddulais and Port Talbot. After Oxford and the LSE, he worked in London as a senior lecturer and chief executive. Since returning to Wales, he has written widely about Dylan Thomas, including The Dylan Thomas Murders, The Dylan Thomas Trail, Dylan Remembered and A Farm, Two Mansions and a Bungalow, now a major film, The Edge of Love, starring Keira Knightley and Matthew Rhys.

Free Welsh Music Digital Album Download - Get it Here!

Help yourself to a free Welsh language digital album. Download from "Dan Y Cownter/Under The Counter". The album features tracks from Fleur Dafydd, MC Mabon and Dr Huw amongst others. Just click on the banner above or HERE to be taken to the download site.

From the site:- "Following the overwhelming popularity of Dan y Cownter (Under the Counter) and Dan y Cownter 2 - two previously released CDs featuring the best and latest music from Wales, distributed for free in order to promote Welsh language music; Welsh Music Foundation is proud to present this brand new website - the third edition in the series: "Dan Y Cownter 3" (more...)"

The Latest From Cymuned - Supporter's Email

Its been a busy month for us, with the preparatory work coming to a close for the CyngorNi campaign, (calling for Councils in the Fro Gymraeg to adopt Welsh as their internal language), and its launch approaching. We haven't received any replies yet from the councils that have received letters from us, which is disappointing in one way. However the absence of negative answers is a bonus, and gives us plenty of ammunition!

On the subject of CyngorNi, thanks to Gina for asking an important question. Gina is a strong supporter of our aims, but comments, "I wish to know where all of this will leave us non welsh speakers who...were not brought up speaking welsh, who do not have contact with Welsh speakers and have not been able to learn the language."

Firstly I apologise for not explaining this sooner - It never crossed my mind that Welsh language supporters might be nervous of this policy. I wonder if this is the big weakness of pro Welsh language campaigns, that Welsh-speakers often communicate and listen poorly to non Welsh-speakers.

We are calling for the policy only in areas where Welsh is a thriving community language, and where not speaking Welsh is a choice: In these areas there are many opportunities to learn, and
practice opportunities are everywhere. Of course, learning any language is still not easy, so the campaign calls on councils to provide free Welsh lessons (and everything else that a learner needs), during work time, to bring each worker's Welsh to fluency. Most vacancies will still be open to non Welsh-speakers, who will then learn Welsh as part of their work duties.

For those of you (and I would hazard a guess that I am talking about a majority here) who would like to be able to speak Welsh, imagine becoming totally fluent in 3 years, in work time! By the way, Gwynedd, because they have already adopted this policy, has the highest proportion of fluent Welsh learners in Wales.

Gina also writes that "there must be room for us all in Wales, with jobs for both Welsh speakers and non Welsh speakers." Here she hits the nail on the head - this is exactly what we are campaigning for.

Reminder: There is a protest outside the National Trust AGM on Saturday 1st November. For those who'd like to travel on the bus from Wrexham, it is leaving the Plas Coch pub (on the B&Q / Sainsbury Roundabout, near the Owain Glyndwr University) at 8am. People will meet outside the AGM in Liverpool at 9.30. For more details, or to book your place in the bus, email us (by replying to
this email).

A good example of London Press attitudes towards Wales in this week's Sunday People (thanks to John for this). Dave Kidd, this time, says: "Wales isn't a proper country anyway, the so-called
"Welsh language" is clearly just a series of weird noises used as a practical joke against the English, and Ramsey might as well admit he'd rather wear the three lions." We wonder if he's a little peeved that the Football Assosciation of Wales is still refusing to join the 'British' Olympic football team.

On that subject, readers of this email appear to have nearly doubled the number of signatures on the official Assembly petition calling for a Welsh team to take part in the 2012 Olympics. For those who haven't yet signed, the petition closes on the 31st October, so go to https://www.assemblywales.org/gethome/e-petitions/eform-sign-petition.htm

straight away!

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Here is a new development for the email. Each month, we aim to include an interview on an interesting subject, as a way to bring the viewpoints and ideas of our supporters (and others maybe, later on) to a wider audience. If you have ideas for a good interview, or if you would like to record one yourself, then get in touch so that we can organise it (or offer some interview / recording training if you have lots of friends with interesting ideas!). By the way, I must apologise for the quality of the October recording. I'm only just getting to grips with the technology myself!

Listen to the first voice clip, which talks about the importance of bringing up children with the welsh language, at :-
http://clicks.aweber.com/y/ct/?l=G_gtO&m=1f6WW8ku3.s3wL&b=CU2MD21o7LVrKhggfLb8cQ

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Two adverts to finish - It is now possible to join the new Dot Cym campaign, which aims to get the use of .cym for Welsh web pages. Go to http://www.dotcym.org/home/ for more information

If you are in Aberaeron, Aberystwyth or Machynlleth this week, pop into Ji-binc for their Half Term sale. More details to be had on http://www.ji-binc.com/
Until next time

Iestyn
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

Dewi Sant told us to "Do the little things."

To see what he had in mind, have a quick look at:

www.cymuned.net/ymlaen/dewisant

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

Are you a dreamer or a doer?

Cymuned can't survive without YOUR help.

Have a look at:

www.cymuned.net/ymlaen/ourfuture

to hear how to make things change.

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

Cofion cynnes/Warm regards,

Pwyllgor Gwaith Cymuned
(the Cymuned Executive Committee)

P.S. Stickers should not be put on public property.
Cymuned, 64 Stryd Fawr, Pwllheli, Gwynedd LL53 5RR, CYMRU

"My First Colouring Book" - Lloyd Jones

Prize-winning Welsh author Lloyd Jones celebrates the launch of his first collection of short stories next week. The work entitled "My First Colouring Book" will be available from Nov 5th. Lloyd Jones is the award winning author of "Mr Vogel" and "Mr Cassini", two of the most refreshing and challenging novels to come out of Wales in recent decades. His new book will be reviewed on this site in due course, meanwhile you can pre-order a copy from Amazon.com here:- My First Colouring Book

Read reviews HERE.

An Interview With Bruce Anderson

Award-Winning Tenor Bruce Anderson Releases "Sorrento," November 1st

Bruce Anderson celebrates the release of his third album, "Sorrento," Saturday night ( Nov 1st at 7 p.m. ) at the Porthcawl Grand Pavilion Theatre, near his hometown of Bridgend in South Wales. "Sorrento" has twelve tracks, including a cover of Luther Vandross' "Dance With My Father," which Anderson dedicated to his own father, who passed away five years ago, and a live version of "Sammy's Lullaby," which Anderson wrote for his young son, Samuel.

"Listen and Buy"

"Sorrento" is his third album, following "La Musica" and "Mama." Mr. Anderson's music career has stretched over two and a half decades, spanned genres from heavy metal to opera, gained him wide acclaim and many dedicated fans. He's performed on stage with soprano Holly Holyoake and his own rock band, to name just two of his very diverse collaborators. He's twice won the Welsh Vocalist of the Year award and performed before an audience of approximately 100,000 at the 2002 Glastonbury Festival of Contemporary Performing Arts, one of the largest outdoor arts festivals in the world.

Bruce Anderson "Requiem For A Soldier" a soldiers tribute ( YouTube)

Where was "Sorrento" recorded and who worked with you on it?

"I recorded the album at Sonic-One Executive Studios near LLanelli, with the excellent producer Tim Hamill, who has worked with the likes of George Michael."

How long has it taken to create the album and how does it feel to be on the eve of releasing it?

"It's taken a year to get the orchestral arrangements ready but, unbelievably, it took just two hours and twenty minutes to put my vocals on. It went very well. I'm looking forward to the release of this album. There's no weak tracks and it's my best yet."

Do you write your own songs and how would you describe your creative process as a songwriter?

"I do write my own songs but on this album there's only co-writing on 'World In Union/Cymru' and "Sammy's Lullaby.' When I'm writing, it normally happens very quickly. I think the best way for lyrics is to write done from the heart, exactly what you're feeling at that moment."

How did you come to singing, what inspired you?

"I started singing professionally at the age of 18. My Mum was in the West End [the center for live British theater] so it came naturally to pick up a mic from an early age. I remember being more nervous singing in front of my mum than the hundreds of people in the audience! My idols were Tommy Körberg, Richard Marx, Mario Lanza and an Australian singer called John Farnham. I also loved Def Leppard, they really got me into harmonies and melodies."

Is there any particular live performance in your career that stands out to you? Any one that had particular significance or meaning and satisfaction for you?

"Performing at Glastonbury was amazing: to 100,000 people, just a sea of heads. Coldplay were also performing. It was a very memorable experience. I also performed on the Michael Barrymore show, which opened a lot of doors for me."

You've switched genres or styles in your career and were previously a rock vocalist - how did that decision come about? What about your current style appealed to you?

"I like trying new things and experimenting with music. On the new album there's a track called 'Fleur Du Mal,' which blends classical and rock. It's quite an epic, which I'm very proud of. The classical stuff came full circle as that's how I started. Who knows what's next?"

Is there any place you'd really like to perform that you haven't? Any particular occasion?

"The National Anthem. The Six Nations, Wales versus England at the Millenium Stadium. I would have to get past the wonderful Katherine Jenkins for that honour, though. My great friend and colleague, Holly Holyoake also had the honour of this, you can check her out on youtube doing so."

What awards have you won?

"I've won many awards. Welsh vocalist of the year twice and all three of my Albums have been Album Of The Week on BBC Radio Wales, Chris Needs' Show. 'Sorrento' was Album Of The Week on 20th October and Katherine Jenkins is next week."

You've collaborated with other vocalists, who inspires you?

"I've had the pleasure of working with many talented people but at the moment I would have to say Holly Holyoake. She has bounced back from a serious back operation with great class and commitment to get back to the level she was last year. A true inspiration with an incredible talent."

You can hear sample tracks from 'Sorrento' and purchase this and Bruce's other albums on his website.

Bruce Anderson - Working Man (YouTube)

Bruce Anderson Nella Fantasia from "Mama" (YouTube)

A Night No Rebel Should Miss - Press Release - Dafydd Iwan with The Wolfe Tones

29,30 and 31st OCTOBER NEWS! Special Guest Appearance Dafydd Iwan to sing 'iconic song' with the Wolfe Tones Plaid Cymru president Dafydd Iwan will join the Wolfe Tones live on stage at Caernarfon's Galeri in a performance of the iconic song Fields of Athenry on Wednesday 29th October. The late Ray Gravell - a keen Wolfe Tones fan - implored Dafydd to translate the song into Welsh after presenting him with a Tones CD. Dafydd¹s rendition Esgair Llyn - a ballad about the relentless devastating depopulation of rural Wales - has become one of the most popular songs at his gigs across the country. The Wolfe Tones have just completed a stunning Irish tour ending with a massive gig in Belfast last night before a packed audience of 1800. See Video See Video 2 A handful tickets have just been released for Caernarfon - Contact Galeri Caernarfon direct. You can still order online today and remaining tickets for other venues will be sold at the meet and greets in Harry's Bar in Aberystwyth at 5.30 pm and the Park Inn at 5.30pm on Friday Tickets for the Cardiff concert (now less than 40 left) on Friday 31st October can be bought from Noel at the Cayo Arms, Cathedral Road (call first on 07968031965) and those attending are reminded that the entrance to the Millennium Suite at the Millennium Stadium is via GATE 7 (see map on website). The band when on the road can be contacted on 07837510717 Cost: £20 + £1 p&p. online £25 on the door (subject to availability) Support Band: Henry Marten's Ghost About the Wolfe Tones Known for their uncompromising portrayal of Ireland¹s troubled history, the Wolfe Tones repertoire features some of the great classical rebel songs and ballads in addition their own stirring compositions, celebrating the deeds of the heroic men and women who gave their lives for their country's freedom. Any evening with the Wolfe Tones will be a rousing, uplifting and electrifyingly emotional experience with music and song which goes straight to the heart. VISIT THE WEBSITE FOR MORE INFO Phone Orders : 07837 510 717

Peidiwch da chi a cholli'r cyfle i weld un o fandiau mwyaf Iwerddon yma yng Nghymru. Nosweithiau na ddylid eu colli 29ain 30ain a 31ain o Hydref. Newyddion! Gwestai Arbennig Iawn! Dafydd Iwan i ganu y gân eiconig Athenrye gyda’r Wolfe Tones yng Nghaernarfon . Fe fydd Llywydd Plaid Cymru Dafydd Iwan , yn ymuno â’r Wolfe Tones yn fyw ar lwyfan y Galeri yng Nghaernarfon nos Fercher y 29ain o Hydref i gyd-ganu y gân eiconig Fields of Athenrye . Bu y diweddar Ray Gravell – dilynwr brwd o’r Wolfe Tones – yn ymbil ar Dafydd i addasu’r gân i’r Gymraeg, ar ôl cyflwyno CD ô’r grwp I’r canwr gwerin poblogaidd. Bellach mae fersiwn Dafydd ô’r gân Esgair Llyn – baled ynglyn â di-boblogi gwledig – yn un ô’r caneuon mwya poblogaidd gyda chynulleidfaeodd led-led Cymru. Neithiwr daeth taith Wyddelig hynod o lwyddiannus y Wolfe Tones i ben yn Theatr Water Front Belfast, gyda thros 1800 ar eu traed ar ddiwedd y noson . Video | Video 2 Mae’na lond dwrn yn unig o docynnau newydd eu rhyddhau gan y Galeri ar gyfer y nos Fercher a gellir eu prynu’n uniongyrchol o’r theatr fan hyn Gellir dal i archebu tocynnau ar gyfer nosweithiau eraill y Wolfe Tones yr wytyhnos ‘ma fan hyn fan hyn ac bydd unrhyw docynnau sy’n weddill yn cael eu gwerthu gan y band yn uniongyrchol i’r cyhoedd yn Harry’s Bar yn Aberystwyth am 5.30 nos Iau - neu yn y Park Inn yng Nghaerdydd am 5.30 nos Wener . Mae na lai na 40 o docynnau ar gyfer Caerdydd ar ôl, a rhwng nawr a dydd Gwener gellir eu prynu gan Noel yn nhafarn y Cayo Arms yn Heol y Gadeirlan Caerdydd ( ffoniwch cyn galw 07968031965). Gyda llaw cofiwch mai trwy Giat 7 y mae cael mynediad i Swît y Milleniwm yn Stadiwm y Milleniwm (gweler map) Tra ar y ffordd gellir cysylltu a’r band drwy ffonio 07837510717. Pris Tocynnau: £20 + £1 p&p ar y We £25 wrth y drws ar y noson (os bydd rhai ar ôl)

Fields Of Athenry ( YouTube )

Dropkick Murphys - Fields of Athenry ( YouTube )

The Wolfe Tones - Come Out Ye Black And Tans ( YouTube )

Yma O Hyd - Dafydd Iwan ( YouTube )

Katherine Jenkins Signs Biggest Record Deal in History of Classical Music!!

Read the WalesOnline article here:-

$10m deal puts singer Katherine in record books

Katherine Jenkins - Hallelujah on the Andrew Marr Show. (YouTube)

Press Release From WelshArtNow - A Dedicated Arts Magazine For Wales - Issue One Available.

ISSUED BY WelshArtNow publishing.

WelshArtNow - ISSN 977-1757 56900-3

"We are pleased to announce the publication of issue 1 of WelshArtNow (WAN). WAN is the new quarterly art magazine that discusses art with a Welsh connection. Wales can now claim to have its own dedicated art magazine. WAN is A4 sized and contains 48 pages, printed in full colour on high quality art paper. WAN will ride on the crest of positive change and the sense of optimism that defines modern Wales; there would not seem a better time to launch a new and dynamic cultural arts magazine. Welsh art, now has its own platform and can take centre stage. A wide range of art is featured, ranging from cartoons to gallery art; there will even be an art ‘centre fold’ each issue! As far as we are concerned it’s all art and is interesting in its own way. It would seem to make perfect sense to feature different types of art side by side. Although about ‘now’ the magazine is interested in the rich and varied history of Wales and its people. Apart from talking about art the magazine will feature lots of original art specific to a magazine format (think of it as a gallery within a magazine)
.

WAN is a friendly lively read, our ambition is to ‘open’ up art to a much wider range of people. We believe that the key to this is quite simply the need to talk about art. WAN is a talk shop for art; many voices expressing a range of opinions. Traditionally art magazines are seen as being hard going/ inaccessible, intended only for those already familiar with the discourse of art. Why should it be that way? We would like to see people talking about art in the same way as they might of a TV program or a piece of music.

So in summary an art magazine containing a good varied mix of art that is concerned with the ‘here’ and ‘now’ and is delivered with a bit of kick. The magazine has already generated an enormous amount of interest here in Wales and is already stocked in over 30 outlets and growing. This week is our grand launch, this Wednesday we will be in conversation with Nicola Hayward Thomas of BBC radio – details of this broad cast will be published on our website at www.welshartnow.co.uk. WAN is pleased to announce that Borders Bookshops will be a supplier of the magazine. So out with the old and in with new- WAN - a new bold experiment in arts publishing."

For further details contact

Jackie Allman

editor@welshartnow.co.uk

01633 675029

UN-C: Welsh Music Channel - An Interview With Nia Evans

Press Release	Interview	YouTube Channel

Member Nia Evans lives in Brighton and has a very amibitious plan for her life, her love of Welsh music and all of us.

What is it that you're creating? Is it an online radio station or the youtube channel?


"What I’m creating could actually be a combination of all the above. Essentially it’s a Welsh music channel, to be distributed over the IPTV technology. Essentially, this is internet on television. The channel will be viewed on the internet, on the television as a radio station, the television as a channel as well possibly in the future on a mobile phone."


Right now you have the youtube channel, that's the start of what you're building?


"Yes, the you tube channel was created as a form of prototype to give an idea as to what I’d be looking to achieve on the channel itself. The most important aspect of the channel will be that the viewers get to choose what they watch. Whether it’s choirs, bands, individuals or even instrumental music, it will be the customers who choose via interactive means. This would mean that more people are targeted, as well as ensure a bigger music database to choose from. Although not an exact replica, the you tube channel should give the viewers a taste of what I want to achieve as well as give myself an idea as to the actual interest and need for such a channel."


"[social networking] will be the next step. I have now got a channel available to me on the IPTV platform. Up until now I have tried to keep quiet about the channel . . . not wanting anyone to steal the idea so to speak! There are groups already created on myspace and facebook to see what interest is like."


How has the response any support been from the bands? Anyone particularly who's been help to you?



"There have been a few positive feedbacks from some bands, being Vanta, Frizbee and Caswallon ap Cranc. Those are the one’s have been most supportive, however, to be honest, all bands are different, so it depends on the taste of the viewer, and I hope they find an artist they enjoy!! One thing to mention however is that I have found some old footage of bands from the 80’s and 90’s, which hopefully underlines the range offered. Most of all, I’d like to thank Mei (meilyr) the lead singer of Vanta, who’s comments and support has actually maintained my enthusiasm for this project! "


What are you working toward, what is your vision of what your final product will be?


"I am a very enthusiastic person, so, could say that my future objectives would be to actually offer more than just music, but documentaries, short films, etc those to be offered globally, on IPTV (television), internet, radio and the internet. I would imagine that in the long run, the ability to download will also feature in my plans. I don’t know whether these, what can I say, extensive plans will becomes a reality . . .I guess that will have to depend on how people react to the you tube channel and then the service when offered on IPTV itself!"


How will people get it? Will it be by subscription or pay-per-download or free?


"I had considered subscription, but to be honest, I didn’t think that would actually work. The service will be free, as long as you have the right technology. You’d have to buy an IPTV set top box to connect to the television to view the content on the TV, what is great is that freeview channels will already be offered as well as a wide range of other channels. Looking at how successful the channel is, a pay-to-view method might be introduced when broadcasting live concerts or gigs."


What kinds of music can people expect to find there?


"Anything I will be able to get my hands on. On one hand, it’s been unfortunate that I’ve had to keep quiet about the channel, it means that I have not got an idea as to whether I have the support of S4C, who have a full archive of music videos which would be great as content for un-c (this channel) however, signed bands will have their own videos, I’m also hoping to film artists and acts myself as well as get help from young media students. By telling you all of this, what I’m trying to say is that all kinds if music will be available."


How can bands get their music on it?


"The bands themselves will be contacted by me personally, or, if they would like to show an interest could get in touch with me. I would then take the necessary steps to get hold of footage or film them performing to play on the channel. As well as playing their music, it would be possible for viewers to have contact information for buying the music and learning about the artists as they play."


Is there anything like this online? What is the online Welsh music scene?


"It’s getting better, but I personally feel like there is a long way to go. There are a few sites online, but either for the lack of advertising or marketing, people don’t seem to know much about them. Saying that, some of the videos available on you tube seem very popular, which shows that there is an interest. On IPTV however, or any form of television broadcasting – there is no channel dedicated to Welsh music. There have also been huge changes within Welsh radio, which at the moment seem to be proving very unpopular with the a few of the Welsh public. Apart from economical factors, it seems like the perfect time to be setting a service such as this one up".


Are you looking or will you look for sponsors and advertisers?


"I will be looking for both sponsors and advertisers. This will be the main form of finance for the channel. And without sounding too eager, this would be a great opportunity for any company to have their name on the site/channel being that it will be broadcasted globally. I’m also looking towards the assembly for help as well, being that the channel essentially could be used (and hopefully will be) to attract people to the Country and more importantly put Wales on the map".


What stage is your project at and what's the next step?


"I can honestly say that I can’t believe how far things have progressed since the initial pitch idea in February this year. I had a meeting last month which concluded with me being offered a channel, I’m now at a stage where I will be meeting with graphic designers to design the brand image and the lay out itself. Then it’s a matter of collecting content!! Within the next few weeks I will also be meeting with the assembly, S4C and such establishments to see if there is support for me. Market research has been conducted, there seems to be an interest so all I can say is that it’s going to be a bit of a busy few weeks!!!"


Do you have past experience in music or broadcast?


"I am a music lover. I like to think I have good knowledge of the Welsh music scene. My undergraduate degree is in film and television studies, where I have created short films and got quite a lot of experience about the broadcasting industry, I have now just completed my masters degree in digital television management and production, which has given me a good platform of knowledge about the technology involved and the business/legal and management needed to create such a service. All together I’m hoping it’ll be a recipe to success!!"


How did you come to this idea, what inspired or catalyzed this concept for you?


"It was something that had just crossed my mind a few years ago, thinking why Welsh songs were not incorporated in the music channels offered on digital now, I never thought anything from it, until I moved away from Wales, and actually found it hard to keep in touch with the Welsh music industry. I couldn’t believe that having just moved from ‘the land of song’ where Welsh music played such a big part to actually hearing nothing apart from my own collection and the little bit offered on the internet. I was lucky that I was offered the opportunity to pitch my idea to business individuals, and somehow they saw the potential, putting me in touch with the relevant people, and I guess the rest is history.


It’s my own personal opinion that the people of Wales don’t realise they have it so good. I hadn’t realised it, until I moved away and was faced with the struggle to actually maintain my interest within different aspects of Welsh culture."



Anything else you'd like people to know about your project?


"The project is still an ongoing development. I will be designing the channel, and meeting with relevant people to discuss funding and so forth, however, as much as I want to develop the idea further, there is still a possibility that it won’t actually become a reality. The response so far has been good, and it seems there is an avenue to use it within schools and other establishments, I’m just hoping that will continue!!


I also don’t want people to be put off by the possibility of the channel being only in Welsh. You don’t have to be able to speak the language to love the Country and it’s traditions. I’m looking to offer a language choice, as well as feature bands who don’t necessary sing in Welsh. If they have some sort of connection to the Country, then there is no reason why they can’t be featured. That includes choirs/bands/artists who live and sing in other Countries, not just Wales. What this channel aims to do is to maintain the traditions and culture of the Country, it’s about time the rest of the world get to appreciate what we Welsh people have known and loved for years!"

A Word From Bruce Anderson

Reproduced from his blog on Americymru which can be found HERE.

"Multi Award winning singer Bruce Anderson releases his latest Album on November 1st 2008. The follow up to his last offering in 2007, ‘La Musica’, which itself attracted worldwide acclaim, is entitled ’Sorrento’.

The track list features a magical journey across several genres from classical to popular, from well known to the less well known, and from the standard to innovative diversity. ‘Sorrento’ leads in with the powerful ‘Fleurs Du Mal’ followed by the touching Kamen’s ‘Requiem for a soldier.’ The equally powerful ‘Canto Della Terra’ follows, in a duet with Holly Holyoake. Then an interesting version of ‘Can’t help falling in Love with you’ with accoustic guitar as company. The title track ‘Come back to Sorrento.’ follows, then a lively duet with Maria Lyn, ’Breaking Free’ from the popular High School Musical. The tempo slows again with a touching version of ‘Dance with my Father.’ ’World In Union’ is up next for what can only be described as something completely different as it features over six minutes of a mixture of both English and Welsh lyrics which will surely lift the most stubborn of passions. The quieter ’Walk Away’ is next, followed by another Maria Lyn duet, the rousing ’Amigos Para Siempre’(Friends Forever). There are also two bonus ’live’ tracks of ’Broken Vow’ and ’Sammy’s Lullaby.’ It’s a truly well thought out Album to suit many tastes and is easy on the ear from start to finish.

You can hear snippets from the Album by going to Bruce’s website at www.bruceanderson-thesinger.co.uk or www.myspace.com/bruceanderson2 , alternatively, log onto You Tube to hear a number of his songs, including ‘Requiem for a Soldier,’ which has already received positive acclaim from as far afield as the USA. ‘Sorrento’ will feature as ‘Album of the Week’ on BBC Radio Wales’ Chris Need’s Show at 11pm each weekday night from Monday 20th October 2008, when you‘ll also be able to hear a different song each night.You can listen online at http://www.bbc.co.uk/wales/radiowales on SKY Channel 0117 or 103.9 FM.

Advanced orders for ‘Sorrento’ can be made on the main website www.bruceanderson-thesinger.co.uk from 20th October 2008. Tracks also available to DOWNLOAD from November 1st at www.downloadfactor.com The live launch of ‘Sorrento’ will be at The Grand Pavilion, Porthcawl, on the evening of Saturday 1st November 2008. You will not be disappointed."

SORRENTO

WORKING MAN

Marathon Efrog Newydd 2008 - New York Marathon 2008

On 2 November 2008 Iwan Williams from Llandysul, Wales, will take part in the New York Marathon for the benefit of Tŷ Hafan, the Children's Hospice in South Wales, and the Welsh football supporters Gol! Appeal (offline donations to Gol! only). Tŷ Hafan helps children who suffer from serious medical conditions, and provides respite and support for their families. These children are not expected to live past their teenage years. Please visit the Ty Hafan website for further information.

If you would like to sponsor Iwan, please visit www.justgiving.com/iwanwilliams - if possible, please give generously; it costs £2.5 million to run Tŷ Hafan every year, so every penny counts!! Thank you!

Ar 2 Tachwedd 2008 fe fydd Iwan Williams o Landysul, Cymru, yn rhedeg Marathon Efrog Newydd er budd Tŷ Hafan, Hosbis i blant yn Ne Cymru, a Apel Gol!, elusen cefnogwyr pel droed Cymru (rhodd 'offline' i Gol! yn unig). Mae Tŷ Hafan yn helpu plant sy'n dioddef o salwch difrifol, ac yn rhoi seibiant a chymorth i'w teuluoedd. Nid oes disgwyl i'r plant yma fyw tu hwnt i'w harddegau. Ewch i wefan Ty Hafan am fwy o wybodaeth.

Os hoffech noddi Iwan, yna ewch i www.justgiving.com/iwanwilliams os gwelwch yn dda - rhoddwch yn hael os fedrwch; mae Tŷ Hafan yn costio £2.5 miliwn i'w redeg yn flynyddol, felly mae pob ceiniog yn helpu!! Diolch yn fawr!

Winifred's Well by John A. Shaffer

This meticulously researched book will be a source of delight to antiquarians and lovers of Wales everywhere. There are many accounts of the circumstances leading to St Winifred's canonisation but few people will be aware of the struggle at the beginning of the last century to save the well that bears her name from industruial despoilation. Likewise only a very select few can claim to have visited the enormous underground lake from which the spring originally flowed.

Mr Shaffer's quest began after the chance discovery of a statue of St Winifred in the most unlikely of places.... a public park in Hudson N.Y! His determination to investigate all aspects of her story subsequently led him to embark on a trip to Wales where he was invited by local cavers to visit the underground lake. But this is not an adventure story nor is it primarily a work of historical exposition. Indeed the work takes on the aspect of a pilgrimage as theauthor considers the spiritual significance of St Winifreds Well and other sites like it.

It deserves to be mentioned that the volume is graced with a fine collection of photographs from the authors personal collection. These serve to illuminate and enliven the text throughout.

Purchase Here

Mr Shaffer generously consented to answer a number of questions about the book for Americymru. His responses are reproduced below.

Q. What would you say was your main motivation in researching and following up this story as thoroughly and relentlessly as you did?

"I’ve always shaped my travel into something more like pilgrimage than tourism. I’ve visited St. Columba’s Iona, Nicholas Ferrar’s Little Gidding, and touched the healing soil at El Santuario de Chimayo. Places are powerful for many different reasons; this one attracted me in a very personal way and wouldn’t let go. I had a compelling sense that things of importance remained to be told."


Q. Some people take the view that the Welsh have a special relationship with their past. There is the famous R.S. Thomas line: "It is not possible to live in the present, at least not in Wales." During your stay in Wales did you experience any sense of this?

"That’s an interesting question. My book moves freely between the Wales of today, a century ago, and the remote past. That structure seemed very natural, and not a day went by without a surprising and visceral sense of the interconnections. So maybe Thomas was right. He was quite aware of the timelessness of sacred places."


Q. Nov 3rd is St. Winifrede's Day. There are many other Saints Days in the Welsh calendar ( St Dwynwen, St Teilo, St Illtud to name but a few). Do you feel that they are unduly neglected in the present day? If so what relevance do you feel these traditions have for a modern audience?

"Wales may have more long-ago saints than any comparable acreage in the world. Either the Welsh were exceptionally holy, or their descendants had unusually generous memories! My sense is that we are finally outgrowing the unyielding rationalism that stripped so many modern lives of wonder. We can hear about St. Dwynwen resuscitating her frozen lover and notice the divine compassion in her story instead of the improbable details. We are enriched."

A Note on St Winifred

St Winifred's feast day is November 3rd. Born in the 7th century, she was the daughter of a Welsh nobleman ( Tyfid ap Eiludd ). Her religious devotion was profound and it was her ambition to becomea nun. A suitor named Caradog became enraged at her continued indifference to his advances and decapitated her. Her head, according to legend, rolled down a hill and at the spot where it came to rest a healing spring appeared. Later her uncle Bueno ( also a saint ) restored her to life and she later became Abbess of Gwytherin and ventured on a pilgrimage to Rome. Caradog meanwhile did not fare well at the hands of Bueno who cursed him causing him to "melt into the ground".

Upon her death she was initially buried at Gwytherin but her remains were subsequently removed to Shrewsbury in 1138. Here they were interred in a shrine which attracted pilgrims throughout theMiddle Ages, Although this shrine was destroyed by Henry VIII during the reformation the structures surrounding the well at Holywell were not. The well at Holywell had acquired a reputation as the Welsh 'Lourdes' and since the attraction was deemed to be more medical than spiritual , wholesale destruction did not occur. St Winifred's Well can claim to be sole British shrine to attract pilgrims consistently since the early Middle Ages This unbroken tradition is unique in the British Isles.

St Winefred has been adopted as the patron saint of virgins and, somewhat bizarrely, of payroll clerks. Literary references include:-

Gerard Manley Hopkins, Poems and Prose (Penguin Classics)

Ellis Peters, A Morbid Taste for Bones

Russell Sheppard - The Llanbradach Maestro

Russell Sheppard will need very little introduction to most of our readers. His exquisite musical contributions to our video section have enormously enriched this site. They can be heard here. Russell's YouTube channel can be found here.

The Music

Photos of Wales

The Man

Russell Sheppard is a multi-talented instrumentalist, composer, painter and photographer from Llanbradach in South Wales. Here is an excerpt from his Americymru profile page:-

"I have been playing the guitar for 28 years, I try to play every day but haven't always got the time, I also write music on my computer using Sonar 7 which is a studio software programme.

I also paint and have painted off and on since my 20's, I first started to paint in school but stopped when I joined the army, I have painted nearly everything I can think of such as people, landscapes, dogs, cars, boats and whatever people have wanted."

Russell has also provided musical accompaniment for one of Americymru member Tam Ryans videos. "A Warm Welcome" can be found here.




The Interview

1. When did you first start playing guitar?

"I have always been very interested in music and even as a kid I used to play my mothers piano, at 21 years old I stole my sisters guitar, she didn't play it anyway so I wiped the cobwebs off and bought myself a chord book and learnt some chords."

2. How easy is it to set up your own home studio using Sonar or similar software?

"To set up your own music studio is surprisingly easy if you already have a computer. The studio comes as a software for your computer, you need a good sound card which will give you all the effects you will use, I think the price altogether including the recording software would be around £800 to £1000 pound ($1,396 to $1,745) so for a recording studio thats quite cheap."

3. How do you compose for the guitar?

"I compose music for the guitar, do to this I sometimes write it down onto music sheets, but more often I will sit with the guitar on my lap and work out a tune that has been in my head for a while."

4. Have you studied music or were you self taught?

"I taught myself music from books, and picked up a lot from school as a kid, but I taught myself to play the guitar through listening to tunes and learning them by "ear"."

5. Do you play any other instruments?

"I play other instrument such as the piano, clarinet and a bit of violin, but I'm much more comfortable with the guitar."

6. On your Americymru profile page you mention that you used to paint. Do you still? Can you tell us more about your painting?

"I started to paint in school and developed it further when I left the army, I have painted a lot of portraits and have paintings all over the world."

7. Where can people hear your music?

"People can hear my playing the guitar and hear my music by visiting this site:

http://uk.youtube.com/user/llanbradach

The Left Coast Eisteddfod 2009

What is the Left Coast Eisteddfod? Americymru is planning to hold a major event in Portland in August 2009. The "Left Coast Eisteddfod" will be a celebration of all things Welsh and in particular of the American Welsh heritage which has so enriched the history of this nation. In order to promote and raise funds for this event, a charitable foundation - "The Meriwether Lewis Memorial Foundation" is in the process of being established. The foundation is asking for support from members and supporters of this site, and others, to achieve the following objectives:- 1. To raise funds for a talent competition modelled on the Welsh National Eisteddfod which will both provide a showcase for local talent in the various competition categories and introduce the American public to the concept of the "Eisteddfod" . It is hoped that this event will be the first of many and that future events will be held ( perhaps on an annual basis ) in other U.S. cities. 2. To raise funds for a vendors area which will provide a showcase for Welsh and Celtic businesses and craftspeople to promote their talents, goods and services, foster connections between Welsh and American businesses and craftspeople and hopefully create commercial partnerships. 3. To raise funds for a series of concerts which will feature Welsh and Welsh American performers of both traditional and contemporary music and introduce a wider audience to Welsh and Welsh-American arts and talents.Thus far a number of artists, including the following, have expressed an interest in performing at this event. David Llewellyn Here Be Dragons Terry Mostyn Nathan Penlington Oceans Apart Howl Griff Bootnic Hwyl (Nashville) (Cardiff) (New York) (London) (Arizona) (Aberystwyth) (Ynys Mon) (South Carolina) The above is a partial list. Why Support A Party in Portland? Because it will be so much more than that. As can be seen from the above list it will be a true gathering of the tribes. It is hoped that it will be the first of a new breed of Welsh event in the USA . One which showcases contemporary Wales and the Welsh American heritage in equal measure. An event which attracts widespread popular support and participation and moves Welsh heritage into the mainstream of American culture. We are seeking contributions of all sizes. If every member of this site could contribute $10 dollars we would be well on our way to establishing a new American Welsh tradition. We are also seeking commercial sponsors and grants. All donations welcome. Please help if you can. ( for all enquiries please email americymru@gmail.com ) MAKE YOUR DONATION HERE

Celebrating the Life and Work of One of the World’s Greatest Photographers

For the first time, a collection of photographs taken by one of Wales’ greatest Victorian photographers, John Thomas, is about to be published.. He is described as “one of the world’s greatest photographers” by the head of the Collections Department at the National Library of Wales and the author of a new book, A Welsh Way of Life, Iwan Meical.

John Thomas, a Welshman from Cellan, Ceredigion, took photographs from all areas of Wales during the latter half of the nineteenth century, after starting his career by inviting several prominent preachers to sit for him. The venture was successful and by 1867 Thomas was confident enough to start his own photographic business, “The Cambrian Gallery”. He continued with the work for almost forty years, travelling the length and breadth of Wales, taking photographs of landscapes as well as portraits.

According to the author, “In the work of John Thomas we have a personal, emotional and lively account. Not only is he an important Welsh photographer, but is one of the world’s greatest photographers.”

A Welsh Way of Life is a bilingual account of the life and work of John Thomas. A collection of 130 photographs have been brought together for this unique volume.

Iwan Meical says: “His work is inextricably associated with Wales of that period, when great revolutionary changes were occurring…and during an age when photographic portraits, showing people at their most respectable, were much sought after, John Thomas was the exception because he chose to photograph ordinary labourers and even tramps and drunks.”

Through his photographs of fairs and ports, as well as chapels and landscapes, we have a new insight into Wales and the Welsh people of the Victorian age.

The author of the text that accompanies the photographs is Iwan Meical Jones, who is the Head of the Collections Department at the National Library of Wales in Aberystwyth. He has published a number of articles on Welsh photographers, but this is his first book. The launch will be held in the Drum at the National Library of Wales at 6:00pm Friday 3rd October.

The book will be available from Y Lolfa for: £14.95 + p&p

Should you wish to attend the launch contact the National Library 632548. Some Photographic Samples



















OTHER RESOURCES

John Thomas Collection at The National Library of Wales
John Thomas, Photographer at Rhiw.com.