27 April 2012

Welsh Miner's Choir Welcomed To Belfast

Culture Minister Carál Ní Chuilín has welcomed the Côr Meibion Onllwyn, Onllwyn Miners' Welfare Male Voice Choir, to the north of Ireland.

The Minister heard a recital from the choir at An Chulturlann on the Falls Road, Belfast. They will make a number of appearances in the city during a three-day visit, culminating in a choral recital in Sinclair Seamen's Church.

The Minister said: "The Côr Meibion Onllwyn aims to promote musical culture in the community, to encourage and provide opportunities for young people to develop their musical talents and to promote entertainment.

"It is great to have them in Belfast to share their stories and learn from their experiences. But to appreciate the choir you have to hear them perform – they convey their passion, dedication and power through song.

"It's also significant that Côr Meibion Onllwyn are here as guests of the Shared History Interpretive Project (SHIP). Over the last six years SHIP has raised awareness of the Belfast docks through exhibitions, murals, story-telling, drama and music.

"These two grassroots organisations have used arts and culture to awaken interest in history. In doing so, they have preserved the stories and traditions of the communities around them."

(CD)