On 22nd May, Bridgend Male Choir held a joint concert with Rutgers University Glee Club in aid of Prostate Cymru.
The well-attended concert held at St Mary’s Catholic Church in Bridgend was the only Welsh date of the Glee Club’s European tour. The Rutgers University Glee Club is one of the oldest and most distinguished men’s choruses in the United States. The current Glee Club consists of 76 young men under the age of 25.
The concert opened with The Star-Spangled Banner, the national anthem of the United States in honour of the Glee Club. Bridgend Male choir then proceeded to perform three popular Welsh tunes including Men of Harlech before moving onto a selection of European songs.
Following the interval, the Glee Club and their musical director Dr Patrick Gardner were welcomed to the stage to perform their set. Notable performances included Ave Maria where the choir harmonised perfectly whilst spread out around the church and a Welsh tune called ‘Dacw ‘Nghariad in which the young Americans’ pronunciation greatly impressed the audience.
Bridgend Male Choir returned to the stage to perform favourites such as American Trilogy and Gwahoddiad. The choirs then exchanged gifts: Paul Porter, Choir President presented five CDs and a Bridgend Male Choir plaque to Dr Gardner and in return, Dr Gardner presented the compere Gareth Davies, musical director Rhiannon Williams-Hale and president with Rutgers University baseball caps. The evening concluded with both choirs and the audience singing the Welsh national anthem.