This August, the Nantwen Ensemble celebrates a special milestone: acclaimed Welsh composer John Metcalf MBE turns 80. We're marking the occasion with a short tour across Wales, joined throughout by harpist Alis Huws, former Official Harpist to the Prince of Wales, performing a programme of John's most-loved chamber works.
About John Metcalf
Born in Swansea in 1946, John Metcalf is one of the most distinguished composers working in Wales today. His body of work spans opera, orchestral music, choral music and chamber music. He has also been a long and generous friend to Nantwen β his String Quintet Songs without Words, commissioned with support from TΕ· Cerdd, premiered at the Nantwen Chamber Music Festival in 2023.
The Programme
Four of John's works feature across the tour:
- Songs without Words β String Quintet (commissioned by Nantwen, funded by TΕ· Cerdd)
- Mapping Wales β for String Quartet and Harp (commissioned by Lampeter Music Club)
- Paths of Song
Tour Dates
Thursday 6 August β National Eisteddfod, Y Garreg Las, Pembrokeshire. Find out more
Friday 7 August, 6.30pm β Peppers, Fishguard. With Ynys Las (David Pepper). Book now
Saturday 8 August, 2pm β All Saints Church, Cellan, Lampeter. With Alis Huws, for Lampeter Music Club. Seating limited, tickets required. Find out more
Sunday 9 August, 3pm β St Illtud's Church, Llantwit Major. With Alis Huws. Tickets Β£15 (+booking fee). Find out more
The tour opens on Nantwen's home patch as the National Eisteddfod arrives in Pembrokeshire, and closes at the medieval church of St Illtud's β one of the oldest Christian sites in Wales β a fitting close to a celebration of eight decades of one of Wales's finest musical voices.
John Metcalf at 80 β a Tour of Wales employer: Arts Company
As an employer, we are committed to fostering a vibrant and inclusive work culture that celebrates diversity and creativity. Our location in Cardiff allows for rich collaboration with local communities and artists, providing unique opportunities for professional growth and engagement in meaningful projects like the Dream Inheritances exhibition. We prioritise employee development through partnerships with emerging artists and community initiatives, ensuring that every team member can contribute to and learn from impactful cultural dialogues.
