What a rare treat to be writing this week’s column from Carmarthen’s town centre, I`m home and smiling as I recall the concert last night. I love seeing friends and family who have helped me achieve so much over the years.
The warmth and welcome from all at St Peter’s Church was amazing. From the moment we started our sound check and transforming the 11th century church into a theatre I knew that we were going to have a party even if we were sitting on hard wooden pews. We certainly had fun and raised some money for the church too. A host of raffle prizes were donated by a special lady in New Mexico who had heard about St Peters plight.
Carmarthen boys Royston Massocci (clarinet) & John Morgan (trumpet), can’t thank you enough for adding to my band. You rocked! Diolch. I even made a phone call during the show to a friend asking why she hadn’t made the concert. That was a first, even for me. Thanks Sue for eventually answering your phone and thank you Carmarthen for making the evening so much fun. The Carmarthen Youth Opera certainly added the icing on the cake. My mum would be so proud of how her company continues to grow.
Sunday, still in Carmarthen and so headed up to Trinity College to support my daughter at the end of a two day harp course run by the suitably named “Elin Y Delyn” who has created the largest gathering of harps in Carmarthenshire. Hearing 25 harps being played by harpists of different levels, all playing the Harry Potter theme in the striking chapel was very magical indeed. Bravi.
“Children in Need” last week brought silence to our home. My daughter had agreed – for 60p from a friend – to take on a 24 hour silence for the charity. In true female form she refused to falter even when I begged her to answer me. She either signed or resorted to pen and paper. I was so glad to hear her dolce tones the following morning. By the end of the 24 hours she had raised quite a sum.
This week’s going to be crazy just trying to work out when I have time to breathe. A few days at my deli, mentoring future performers and a concert next Sunday at Holy Cross Church, Cowbridge with soprano Ellen Williams and the Rock Choir – already a sellout show.
And yes I need to pack for a concert in Casablanca. I`m also awaiting confirmation for one of my dream jobs, hosting a Christmas radio Special. So next week my column will come from the sunshine – then I will answer more of your questions.
This article was originally published in the Carmarthen Journal in Mark’s weekly column for the paper.
