MUSICAL RHONDDA

This fascinating collection of over 200 photographs, programme covers and other memorabilia covers a golden era of music-making in the Rhondda, from the last half of the nineteenth century up to the 1960s.

The thousands of newcomers who came to work at the great Rhondda coalfields in the middle of the nineteenth century found many aspects of everyday life harsh. They found a release from social deprivation in music, and soon Rhondda became famous for its choirs, orchestras, brass bands and opera companies as for its coal. There was an amazing array of village, town, regional and national contests, but the climax of the musical calendar was always the National Eisteddfod, at which numerous Rhondda choirs and ensembles have achieved success.

This intriguing record charts the highs and lows of Rhondda’s musical life, both on and off the stage. Throughout the book, the images are accompanied by informative, comprehensive captions. This book is sure to appeal to all those who cherish the unique musical traditions of Rhondda.

£10.99 (The History Press)