In 2002 a new youth group was founded in Cardiff, namely Aelwyd CF1. The aspiration was to give young people the opportunity to socialise and perform through the medium of Welsh. That aspiration was realised, and by now the Aelwyd attracts more than a 100 members, all of whom share a passion for singing, and with that, a choir was formed, Côr Aelwyd CF1.
During the first three years, the choir has spread its wings, and has performed in numerous concerts and competitions. Some of the highlights were successes in choral competitions in the National Urdd Eisteddfodau, winning the youth choir competition in the National Eisteddfod in 2004 and 2005, being honoured with the Choir of the Festival award in the 2005 National Eisteddfod, and winning the prestigious Youth Choir of Wales award in The Choir of Wales competition in 2005. The choir has also had some other fantastic opportunities such as singing in the opening concert at the Wales Millennium Centre, the opening concert of the Urdd Eisteddfod 2005, The Holocaust Memorial Event, performed in ‘Sgidie Bach i Ddawnsio’, the National Eisteddfod 2005 concert, and has sung the anthems at the Millennium Stadium before international matches.
Taking part in such a wide variety of activities and competitions has enabled the choir to develop its musical repertoire to the full. But Aelwyd CF1, however, is not just a choir. Members have achieved successes in fields such as folk dancing, recitation, acting and creative writing. In addition to this, socialising is a very important aspect, and trips to Rome and Dublin, as well as nights out in their home city, are amongst some of their best memories!
Their enthusiasm and joy of singing comes over loud and clear on their debut album.
