The Hawarden Singers"

Knokke, Belgium

May 1962

HAWARDEN SINGERS this year (2004) will be celebrating their 50th Anniversary. Founded in 1954 by the late Dr Emlyn Roberts, PhD., M.A., F.R.C.O, A.R.C.M, they rapidly earned a national and international reputation for high standard choral singing. Though successful in competitions in this country and abroad, they are equally at home in formal and informal concerts and recitals. They have performed many times in the Buckley area over the years.

Former local members from the early years were Winifred Spencer, who was also a soloist with the Choir; Mr W H (Bert) Bailey, a former Chairman; and Kathleen Kilshaw (Secretary). I joined the choir in September 1969, so will be "clocking up" 35 years in 2004, with very many happy memories of competition successes (the highlight being Llangollen International Eisteddfod (lst Prize, Mixed Choirs Competition) 1973, and successful trips abroad). Our current "Chair", Mrs Joan Clapshaw is also a long-standing and enthusiastic member, joining the choir in March 1970 - we have been singing together in the Alto Section ever since!

The choir's present Musical Director is Malcolm Williams, who was appointed in 2001 following the decision of the choir's former conductor and musical director, Hywel John to retire. Hywel had conducted the choir since 1988, upon the retirement of Dr Roberts through ill-health. Plans are now going ahead for various events and concerts to celebrate the 50th Anniversary of The Hawarden Singers.

Author: Cafearo, Maureen

The Hawarden Singers"

Knokke, Belgium

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