Choir’s all smiles as its new musical director takes helm
FOR the first time in the choir’s award-winning 55-year history, there’s a woman in charge at Côr Meibion Llanelli.
Accomplished musician Alex Esney has taken over as musical director of the choir, which carries a dazzling international reputation.
She follows D Eifion Thomas, who took his last bow as musical director earlier this year.
Alex is also musical director of Llanelli’s wellknown women’s choir, Côr Curiad.
She said: “I am delighted to be taking over as musical director of Côr Meibion Llanelli.
“They are such an established choir with a lot of history in the town - and I’m excited to put my own spin on things!
“I have many ideas and have already started introducing new music.
“I’m aware that you have to keep the traditional Welsh music - which I’m keen to continue - but I’ll also be adding many modern songs to the repertoire.
“It’s going to be an exciting few months, so if anyone is thinking of joining, please join now.
“You will be seeing Côr Meibion Llanelli and Côr Curiad joining forces on stage before Christmas in a spectacular event on December 7 at Ffwrnes Theatre.
“There will be a lot of changes and many challenges, but Côr Meibion Llanelli are such a great choir that I’m sure we are in for some exciting times.”
Jane Jewell, already widely known throughout south Wales as an accomplished pianist, joins the new-look team as accompanist.
And the team is strengthened further by the addition of Stephen Hopkins, from the Llanelli Citadel Salvation Army, as deputy conductor.
Alex added: “We’ve all arrived together as the new team for Côr Meibion Llanelli. We’ve had a great welcome from the choristers and are looking forward to making sure everyone enjoys the experience.
“Anyone interested in joining the choir can come along to rehearsals at Furnace Community Hall, 7pm Mondays and Thursdays. A warm welcome is assured.”