If your only connection to the culture of Wales is Bryn Terfel and Tom Jones, you have a wonderful opportunity to find out more about it this weekend. The North American Festival of Wales is in session for a 3-day run Thursday-Saturday in Columbus. Calan opens the program Thursday evening.
The mission of the North American-Welsh organization is to "safeguard and nourished the best of the famed singing traditions of Wales and "to preserve, develop and promote (their) Welsh cultural heritage."
Guest artists for the event is Welsh soprano Gwawr Edwards, who joined me in the Classical 101 studios Thursday morning to talk about music, (classical and otherwise), and this year's conference.
She is a versatile singer who has toured with Bryn Terfel and has just released a brand new recording. Included in the interview are a few selections from that new disc.
Edwards talks about this weekend's festival as well as the Welsh musical heritage and her career.
Edwards also spoke about her family's musical background, working with Bryn Terfel and picking songs for her albums.
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Finally, Edwards spoke about the versatility she has had in her career.
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Some of this weekend's North American Festival of Wales events are open to the general public. You can find ticket and schedule information here.