The Wrexham based Cambrian Orchestra will mark their 20th anniversary with a special concert in Llangollen.

The concert, including works by Glinka, Shostakovich and Dvorak, features two young soloists Conal Bembridge–Sayers and Gideon Brooks and will be conducted by Richard Howarth, formerly the leader of the Manchester Camarata.

Founded in February 1995 and performing their first concert on February 3 1996, the Cambrian Orchestra was the brain child of local musicians Jacqui Blore and Matthew Ellis.

Since their foundation, as the Cambrian Philharmonic Orchestra, they have performed in numerous venues in North East Wales and beyond and a reputation for quality performances and entertaining evenings has grown.

Conal Bembridge-Sayers

Organiser Matthew Ellis said: “Looking back over the last 20 years, it is wonderful to see what we have achieved. We could never have guessed that we would still be organising concerts today. We must thank all those who have played for us over the years, giving up their time and talents to join us to do what we love doing – performing wonderful music for others to enjoy, and to those who have supported us and support us now.

“One of our aims was to give a platform to young soloists, both from North Wales and further afield. Over the years we have welcomed Llŷr Williams, Katherine Lacy, Bethan Allmand, Tom Blomfield, Catriona Kinloch and many others to the orchestra, but for me one of the most memorable was when Kira Kohlmann joined us from our twin town in Germany, Märkischer Kreis, as part of the 40th anniversary celebrations of the twinning. Not only was she simply a stunning violinist, it was humbling to see the support she had from her family who drove to Wrexham to hear her play.”

The concert, on February 6, at the Pavilion Hall on Abbey Road starts at 7.30 pm and tickets are available from the Tourist Information Centre, Wrexham, the Pavilion Hall, Llangollen or on the door priced at £10, £7 concessions and under 16s are free.