A brand new exhibition can be seen at Llys Ednowain which depicts the history of one of Trawsfynydd’s most charismatic sons, Festyn Davies, conductor of the world famous Welsh Imperial Singers. As well as photographs and newspaper cuttings, there are also rare recordings of his melodious tenor voice singing songs such as “Mentra Gwen”, which can be listened to as part of the display.
Festyn Davies and the Welsh Imperial Singers were renowned throughout Europe, Canada and America for thirteen years from 1926 to 1939. The members came from all over Wales, from Trawsfynydd to Treherbert and Caernarfon to Coedpoeth! They always received a warm reception and complimentary reviews wherever they went. They looked extremely professional and handsome in their stage attire with tight trousers, frilly shirts and red swallow-tail jackets. The main attraction of the display is one of the original jackets which has been kindly loaned from Mrs Glenys Jones of Trawsfynydd for the exhibition.
Festyn Davies received his training at the London Guildhall School of Music and he also became quite famous as the conductor and tenor soloist of the Meistersingers. He received special commendation in California at the Great Festival at Stanford University when he conducted 10,000 voices, six full bands and an audience of 50,000!
The Encyclopedia of Canada’s Peoples referring to Festyn Davies and the WIS notes that, “in the 1920’s especially, these concerts strengthened the ethnic identity of many Welsh Canadians and led to an increase in the membership of Welsh societies.”
Siân O’Brien, who has been assisting in the centre throughout the summer holidays, was responsible for preparing the exhibition. She said, “Preparing the display and researching Festyn Davies’ background has been extremely interesting. He was obviously a very notable impresario and conductor in his day and I trust that this is evident in the exhibition.”
Festyn Davies died on the 10th July 1944 at the age of 74 and is buried at St Madryn’s Church, Trawsfynydd.
A warm welcome awaits all at Llys Ednowain, so come along and discover more about him!
If you have any memories of Festyn Davies, please contact the Centre at the below number in order to share your recollections.
Normal Opening Hours: 10:00 – 4:00 p.m. Mon to Fri
Saturday Special Opening 10 Sept 2011 10:00 – 4:00 p.m.
Llys Ednowain Centre, Trawsfynydd: 01766 770324
Photo: Siân O’Brien preparing the exhibition
