Music is an extremely important part of the National Eisteddfod, and this year’s festival at Monmouthshire is no different, with plenty of competitions, gigs and performances to appeal to every musical taste.
The first weekend of the festival is a must for all brass banders. This is the only televised brass band competition across the whole of the UK, and with Wales’ top bands battling it out for the coveted Championship first prize, make sure you’re on the Maes all day on Saturday and Sunday for some top quality blowing!
Wales is well known as the Land of Song, and our choirs are an integral part of our culture. The Eisteddfod’s choral competitions are always excellent, with the male voice choirs in particular attracting a large audience. This year sees eight choirs battle it out for the Welsh Association of Male Choirs Cup, and this competition will be held in the Pavilion on the final Saturday afternoon.
Details of all choral competitions online.
Soloists, instrumentalists, groups and parties make up the music competitions throughout the week, and the quality is extremely high across the board. Make sure you come into the Pavilion to have a look during your visit – you won’t be disappointed.
Music on the Maes has developed greatly over the past few years. Pop over to the open air stage close to the food village for Wales’ best artists and bands from 12.00 until late into the evening. Catch Huw Chiswell on stage on Friday night, and Cowbois Rhos Botwnnog, the three brothers from Pen Llyn with their dreamy folk rock headline on the final Saturday.
If folk music is your favourite, look no further than Y Tŷ Gwerin, the folk house, an attractive yurt, which is home to traditional and new folk music on the Maes. Whether it’s upbeat modern folk music you’re looking for or a more traditional laid-back performance, you’ll find the week-long programme at Y Tŷ Gwerin a real treat – and there’s even a few have a go sessions, where you can bring your own instruments and join in the fun.
So whatever your musical taste, you’ll find plenty to keep you entertained on the Maes, and it’s all free with a Maes day ticket.
National Eisteddfod of Wales
