The Gwyl Gerdd Llanfyllin Festival

World premiere: Matthew Taylor's song cycle, "Portuguese Fado Songs", translated from the original text by Grey Gowrie

Fado may be a word that is unfamiliar to you, but it is a celebrated traditional form of song in Portugal, particularly centred on the Lisbon area. The melancholy, plaintive melodies and heart-wrenching singing style, dealing with tragedy, the pains of love and the beauty of Portugal create a bitter-sweet listening experience which is romantic and moving.

Usually, these songs are accompanied by the Portuguese twelve string guitar, strung in six courses comprising two strings each. It will be interesting, therefore, to hear Matthew Taylor's take on fado, set for a classical music ensemble.

Lord Gowrie, the Festival's patron and an acclaimed poet, was commissioned by the Calouste Gulbenkian Foundation to translate three Fado poems, and kindly gave permission for his translations to be set to music. Taylor's composition has been commissioned by the Llanfyllin Music Festival.

With the artistry of the Allegri String Quartet, Matthew Taylor's exciting and original music and top tenor James Gilchrist, this should be a performance to remember for many years to come. However, should you be unable to come to this premiere (or wish to enjoy the music again) a second performance by the same musicians will be given next year, on 30th April 2011, at the Severn Theatre in Shrewsbury - see later for more details of this concert.