Ty Cerdd appoints Karl Jenkins and Paul Mealor

Paul Mealor and Karl Jenkins - photo Tŷ Cerdd

Tŷ Cerdd, the centre for Welsh Music, has as its aim 'support develop and promote the creation, performance and empowering experience of music, both in and of Wales' so its interests are wide. As a reflection of this Tŷ Cerdd announced on Monday that composer Karl Jenkins is to be the organisation's patron, and composer Paul Mealor its president. To celebrate these appointments Tŷ Cerdd will be commissioning both composers during 2015.

Jenkins celebrates his 70th birthday this year. His background mixes classical training and study with Alun Hoddinott, with a career in the rock band Soft Machine. Jenkins is one of the best-selling classical composers of all time and has a significant international profile with such works as Adiemus and The Armed Man. Whilst Paul Mealor, who is professor of composition at Aberdeen University came to National prominence with his piece for the wedding of the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge, but has since built in this with works such as The Farthest Shore which was premiered at St David's in 2013.

Tŷ Cerdd also launched a new record label in May this year, Tŷ Cerdd Records, promoting classical music by Welsh composers and artists and also announced plans of a tour to Argentina by National Youth Choir of Wales next year.