On the final day of the Urdd National Eisteddfod at Mona, the composer Mari Pritchard is Friday’s president.
“I was born in Rhosmeirch on the outskirts of Llangefni. Soon afterwards, we moved as a family to Dyfriar, the family farm in the Bryngwran area.”
”I had a lovely upbringing in a community which, between Hebron chapel, Pencarnisiog Primary School and Bodedern Secondary School, was full of music. I’ve now settled in Beaumaris.”
“I’m proud to say that I’m related to the late Eirianwen Williams (Price, as she was then). I treasure those early cerdd dant (Welsh harp-accompanied singing) lessons in Eirianwen’s home in Llangefni; she was always so balanced, so wise and always full of enthusiasm.”
”As I went on to train others, that influence stayed with me, and I’ve really enjoyed seeing young people develop their skills and confidence through competing.”
”And although winning isn’t the most important aim for me, there’s no doubt that seeing pupils reach the top at the national level is a thrilling experience.
“It took me quite a while to build up the courage to compete on my own at the Eisteddfod. Folk dancing was the forte of Pencarnisiog Primary School, with the famous Owen Huw training us.”
”After that, I took part in the singing and recitation party with Adran Llanfaelog (Llanfaelog Junior Urdd club).”
”Then, as I got older, I ventured into the world of solo singing and, with the incredible encouragement we all had at Bodedern Secondary School, I competed countless times as a duet, trio and in many choirs – we even won once in the recitation party ‘with accompaniment’!”
Elin Undeg yn ennill Coron yr Urdd
Elin Undeg wins the Urdd Crown
Mari Pritchard yw Llywydd Dydd Gwener
Ble nesa i Eisteddfod yr Urdd?
Where next for the Urdd Eisteddfod?
