Llangollen Eisteddfod provides a 'beacon of hope'
Royal composer Paul Mealor has called on people to support the Llangollen International Musical Festival as he described it as a beacon of hope and peace in an increasingly troubled world.
Professor Mealor shot to international fame after writing Ubi Caritas et Amor for the wedding of Prince William and Catherine Middleton in 2011.
He and he also composed Wherever You Are, which became the 2011 Christmas number one for the Military Wives under the baton of Gareth Malone.
He will be attending the Llangollen Eisteddfod as an adjudicator for the second time this year, and for the first time as a vice president of the event, on July 7.
He said: "The eisteddfod is a phenomenal and wonderful event. The whole world comes to this beautiful little north Wales town to share music and culture.
"People might have differences, whether political or cultural, but they all speak just one language when it comes to music.
"And it isn't just about classical music but all sorts of genres whether it's folk, jazz, reggae or rock.
"It doesn't matter.
"This year, for example, the legend that is Burt Bacharach is performing.
"How is it possible that a festival in a little north Wales town can attract world stars of that magnitude?
"That's what the international eisteddfod is all about, it's just wonderful. Top quality musicians and performers such as Alfie Boe, Catrin Finch, Gareth Malone and a host of other top stars will be bringing wonderful music to the stage.
"It's always busy, whether working with my students or composing new music, but one of the highlights of the year is always Llangollen."
Prof Mealor said the eisteddfod showed the importance of cultural festivals.
He said: "Funding in this day and age is always difficult, but the festival stands for so much and it's vital it continues to go from strength to strength.
"I would encourage anyone who has never been to the festival to go along, even for just a few hours, and soak up what is just an amazing and unique atmosphere.
"Where else would you find people from all over the world brought together in a spirit of peace and tolerance and through a love of one common language – the language of music."
The eisteddfod's musical director, Eilir Owen Griffiths, said: "I am thrilled that Paul is returning as an adjudicator this year."
To book tickets and for more details on the 2015 festival visit www.international-eisteddfod.co.uk
