0:00:00 > 0:00:00- 888
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0:00:02 > 0:00:06- # The Entertainer # - Scott Joplin
0:00:10 > 0:00:13- Musician, composer, communicator.
0:00:13 > 0:00:17- This man has made it his life's work - to entertain the nation.
0:00:17 > 0:00:20- But do all the people - he's inspired...
0:00:20 > 0:00:24- ..fully realize the extent - of his influence?
0:00:24 > 0:00:27- From choral singing to musicals...
0:00:27 > 0:00:32- ..Rhys Jones's contribution to - entertainment in Wales is priceless.
0:00:33 > 0:00:36- # The Entertainer # - Scott Joplin
0:00:44 > 0:00:49- It's the crack of dawn at the summit - of Gwaun Ysgor in Flintshire...
0:00:49 > 0:00:51- ..home territory for Rhys Jones.
0:00:55 > 0:01:01- His voice has enchanted listeners - of Radio Cymru for the past 40 years.
0:01:01 > 0:01:04- It's 6.00am on a Sunday morning...
0:01:04 > 0:01:06- ..and you're waking up - to Rhys Jones.
0:01:07 > 0:01:10- I do hope you stay with me - for the next two hours...
0:01:10 > 0:01:13- ..here on BBC Radio Cymru.
0:01:13 > 0:01:18- If you're the same age as me, you're - bound to remember the dance bands...
0:01:19 > 0:01:23- ..that were so popular - during the last century.
0:01:23 > 0:01:26- A particular favourite of mine - was Tommy Dorsey...
0:01:27 > 0:01:30- ..who created - such unique sounds as this.
0:01:36 > 0:01:38- I'm familiar - with the Bangor studios.
0:01:39 > 0:01:43- I was invited back in 1979, - over 30 years ago...
0:01:44 > 0:01:48- ..to fill in for a month - and I'm still here.
0:01:48 > 0:01:51- I enjoy coming here to Bangor.
0:01:51 > 0:01:54- Each time I come to Bryn Meirion, - it's like going home.
0:01:57 > 0:02:01- Earlier in the year, - Trelawnyd Male Voice Choir...
0:02:01 > 0:02:03- ..released their latest CD.
0:02:03 > 0:02:09- From it, I've selected conductor - Geraint Roberts's interpretation...
0:02:09 > 0:02:11- ..of an arrangement of Psalm 23...
0:02:12 > 0:02:14- ..by contemporary composer, - Eric Jones.
0:02:21 > 0:02:25- My father was one of the founder - members of the Trelawnyd choir.
0:02:25 > 0:02:29- And to this day, - the choir is still going strong.
0:02:30 > 0:02:33- Geraint Roberts joined them - straight from college...
0:02:34 > 0:02:36- ..and he's been with them - ever since.
0:02:36 > 0:02:41- As a young boy, - he was a gifted singer.
0:02:41 > 0:02:44- I loved having Rhys - as my accompanist...
0:02:45 > 0:02:47- ..because I always performed better.
0:02:47 > 0:02:52- He brought something extra to - the accompaniment and jazzed it up.
0:02:52 > 0:02:54- He made it fun.
0:02:54 > 0:02:57- Geraint Roberts - is among hundreds of children...
0:02:57 > 0:03:00- ..who have performed - Rhys Jones's work.
0:03:00 > 0:03:03- From arrangements to songs...
0:03:03 > 0:03:06- ..his influence - is still as strong as ever.
0:03:06 > 0:03:10- Rhys and wife, Gwen, give - singing lessons to 20 children...
0:03:10 > 0:03:12- ..each week at their home.
0:03:13 > 0:03:16- Among them, - Cai Fon Davies and Ciaran Eynon.
0:03:16 > 0:03:20- # Hark, the sweet sound of birdsong
0:03:21 > 0:03:25- # In the lofty branches - of the trees #
0:03:26 > 0:03:29- Can Yr Adar is one of five - of Rhys's songs...
0:03:29 > 0:03:33- ..being sung at the 2010 - Urdd Eisteddfod in Ceredigion.
0:03:33 > 0:03:36- And the songs, like the birds...
0:03:36 > 0:03:40- ..will return year after year - for decades to come.
0:03:40 > 0:03:44- # Disappear up above #
0:03:44 > 0:03:48- His influence can be seen - from generation to generation...
0:03:48 > 0:03:52- ..without us realizing - quite how much he's done.
0:03:52 > 0:03:55- When someone sings - one of his songs...
0:03:55 > 0:03:58- ..they're surprised - when I tell them that Dad wrote it.
0:03:59 > 0:04:04- Wherever I go, people always ask me - how my father is.
0:04:04 > 0:04:08- From Bryn Terfel to a random - Mrs Jones I've never met before.
0:04:09 > 0:04:11- "How's your father? - I love listening to him."
0:04:12 > 0:04:16- Next Sunday. - we'll be back here waiting for you.
0:04:17 > 0:04:19- Until then, - from the Taro Nodyn studio...
0:04:20 > 0:04:26- ..and from me, Rhys Jones, goodbye, - and a very good morning to you all.
0:04:31 > 0:04:33- Snwcer I Mi by Rhys Jones...
0:04:34 > 0:04:37- ..was the Eisteddfod's set piece...
0:04:37 > 0:04:42- ..and the Dyffryn Teifi boys' choir - made it through to the stage.
0:04:42 > 0:04:44- Islwyn Evans was coaching them.
0:04:44 > 0:04:47- Today, Rhys has come to visit.
0:04:47 > 0:04:48- Duh!
0:04:49 > 0:04:50- Wow!
0:04:50 > 0:04:54- Open your mouths wider. Wow!
0:04:54 > 0:04:57- Wah!
0:04:57 > 0:04:59- Wow-ah!
0:04:59 > 0:05:02- Many men sing in choirs nowadays...
0:05:02 > 0:05:04- ..though they may not - have chosen to do so...
0:05:05 > 0:05:07- ..had it not been - for Islwyn and Rhys.
0:05:08 > 0:05:11- Both men greatly respect - each other's contribution.
0:05:12 > 0:05:16- Something I admire about you is - the fact that you're a composer...
0:05:17 > 0:05:21- ..who takes into account - the tricky teenage years.
0:05:21 > 0:05:23- Snwcer I Mi, for instance...
0:05:24 > 0:05:27- ..is pitched a little lower...
0:05:27 > 0:05:31- ..so that those whose voices are - starting to break can sing alto...
0:05:32 > 0:05:35- ..while the others can sing - the top notes.
0:05:35 > 0:05:39- The songs are great. - They're suitable for young boys.
0:05:40 > 0:05:45- I'm very grateful for that because - it makes my job so much easier.
0:05:45 > 0:05:49- I have someone at home - who listens to all my compositions.
0:05:50 > 0:05:53- If she doesn't like them, - they go back in the box.
0:05:53 > 0:05:57- Fair play. That's a good - vetting system to have.
0:05:57 > 0:05:59- It works very well.
0:06:01 > 0:06:03- Eyes. Enjoy it.
0:06:06 > 0:06:09- # Multi colours - on a background of green... #
0:06:09 > 0:06:13- Snwcer I Mi reminds me a lot - of the Pot Black music...
0:06:14 > 0:06:16- ..and the work of Scott Joplin.
0:06:16 > 0:06:18- Of course, that's his field.
0:06:19 > 0:06:24- Those types of melodies - will get young boys singing.
0:06:24 > 0:06:28- Simple psychology and Dad's style.
0:06:29 > 0:06:31- # Snooker for me... #
0:06:31 > 0:06:37- I thought Rhys Jones would've been - younger because his music's modern.
0:06:37 > 0:06:43- He makes us enjoy the performance, - so the audience will enjoy it too.
0:06:44 > 0:06:47- # Tension's mounting, - nerves are jangling
0:06:47 > 0:06:50- # Wiping sweat from the brow
0:06:51 > 0:06:53- # Chalk on the cue, - face growing pale
0:06:54 > 0:06:57- # That's snooker for me #
0:07:04 > 0:07:06- Excellent. Thank you.
0:07:06 > 0:07:08- And thank you very much, Islwyn.
0:07:08 > 0:07:11- It's a better song than I thought!
0:07:12 > 0:07:17- # The red balls have all been potted
0:07:17 > 0:07:22- # Only the colours remain
0:07:24 > 0:07:26- # The yellow, green and brown
0:07:26 > 0:07:30- # And the blue ball
0:07:30 > 0:07:32- # And then the pink in a blink
0:07:32 > 0:07:35- # Goes down in a cinch #
0:07:36 > 0:07:38- The accompaniment is tricky...
0:07:38 > 0:07:41- ..but Lowri's playing it very well.
0:07:42 > 0:07:45- She's much prettier than me too!
0:07:50 > 0:07:53- There's never a dull moment - when Rhys is around.
0:07:53 > 0:07:56- There's always a tale to tell.
0:07:56 > 0:07:58- This is the music room.
0:07:59 > 0:08:02- This is where Gwen coaches - the children.
0:08:02 > 0:08:06- Scores of children have been - coming here over the years.
0:08:06 > 0:08:09- Every Monday and Wednesday night.
0:08:09 > 0:08:15- They say if you want to stay young, - then spend time with the young.
0:08:15 > 0:08:18- It's had more of an impact on Gwen - than me.
0:08:18 > 0:08:22- Many people ask - what I contribute to the lessons.
0:08:22 > 0:08:24- The answer is, "Nil!"
0:08:25 > 0:08:30- Children are fun. Dealing - with children is entertaining.
0:08:30 > 0:08:32- They're full of wonder.
0:08:33 > 0:08:35- They like laughing, of course.
0:08:35 > 0:08:39- We say something silly - to lift their spirits.
0:08:39 > 0:08:42- They come here with their problems - and their joy.
0:08:43 > 0:08:46- They report back to Gwen - with their news.
0:08:47 > 0:08:50- They fill your lives with pure joy.
0:08:52 > 0:08:54- That's it. What a boy!
0:08:55 > 0:08:57- Well done, Wesley.
0:08:57 > 0:09:02- He uses humour - to put people at ease straightaway.
0:09:02 > 0:09:05- And that's still as sharp as ever.
0:09:05 > 0:09:08- He makes us laugh.
0:09:11 > 0:09:14- When he plays the piano, - Gwen always says, "Slow down."
0:09:14 > 0:09:16- And he says, "OK."
0:09:16 > 0:09:20- He tells us jokes during concerts - when he's the compere.
0:09:20 > 0:09:24- Sometimes he tells the same ones - in every concert!
0:09:24 > 0:09:26- They make everyone laugh.
0:09:26 > 0:09:29- You can tell - what frame of mind Dad is in...
0:09:30 > 0:09:33- ..based on his sense of humour.
0:09:34 > 0:09:36- He's still as witty as ever.
0:09:36 > 0:09:40- And that humour - and musical talent...
0:09:40 > 0:09:42- ..has passed down two generations.
0:09:43 > 0:09:45- Caryl and daughter Miriam...
0:09:45 > 0:09:49- ..have a close harmony group which - sings new arrangements of his songs.
0:09:49 > 0:09:53- # I heard merry bells
0:09:54 > 0:09:57- # Tuning in the heather
0:09:57 > 0:10:02- # Sweet bells with magical charm
0:10:02 > 0:10:06- # Sounding in the heather #
0:10:06 > 0:10:07- .
0:10:10 > 0:10:10- 888
0:10:10 > 0:10:11- 888- - 888
0:10:14 > 0:10:18- # Ooh-ooh-ooh-ooh-ooh
0:10:18 > 0:10:22- # When dawn breaks
0:10:22 > 0:10:26- # Over the rugged mountain top
0:10:26 > 0:10:30- # When the sun's golden rays
0:10:30 > 0:10:34- # Fall on the floor of the green vale
0:10:35 > 0:10:39- # When a choir of birds
0:10:39 > 0:10:42- # Chirrup to greet the dawn
0:10:43 > 0:10:46- # I will sing the praises
0:10:47 > 0:10:52- # Of the Lord above #
0:11:03 > 0:11:07- Cai and Ciaran - are two of the new generation...
0:11:07 > 0:11:11- ..who are singing Rhys Jones's songs - in competitions and concerts.
0:11:12 > 0:11:17- From the summit of Y Gop, they can - survey the places in Trelawnyd...
0:11:17 > 0:11:20- ..where Rhys had played at their age.
0:11:20 > 0:11:22- Do you see it?
0:11:22 > 0:11:25- The memories come flooding back.
0:11:25 > 0:11:29- This spot here is right in the heart - of the village.
0:11:29 > 0:11:31- I was brought up just over there...
0:11:31 > 0:11:33- ..in Well Cottage.
0:11:34 > 0:11:36- Next door was called Well View.
0:11:36 > 0:11:42- This used to be a field. - As children, we'd come here to play.
0:11:42 > 0:11:46- We'd go up to the summit of Y Gop - and play there.
0:11:47 > 0:11:51- This is Ebenezer chapel, - and the Memorial Hall, of course.
0:11:51 > 0:11:54- This is where choir practice - was held.
0:11:54 > 0:11:58- There were children's, - mixed and male-voice choirs.
0:11:58 > 0:12:01- They would all use this hall.
0:12:02 > 0:12:04- I'm a child of the 1920s.
0:12:04 > 0:12:07- Mam was a district nurse.
0:12:07 > 0:12:11- She worked within - a seven-mile radius.
0:12:11 > 0:12:14- My father was a council worker.
0:12:15 > 0:12:18- He was what they used to call - a "lengths man".
0:12:18 > 0:12:24- His duty was to keep - a number of lengths neat and tidy.
0:12:24 > 0:12:28- He was responsible for Trelawnyd's - upkeep. He was regarded as a king.
0:12:29 > 0:12:34- He was the children's - and the mixed choir's conductor.
0:12:34 > 0:12:39- I was brought up with the sounds - of the children's and mixed choirs.
0:12:40 > 0:12:42- I was the only child...
0:12:42 > 0:12:45- ..but I didn't feel - like an only child...
0:12:45 > 0:12:48- ..because there were - so many children in the village.
0:12:49 > 0:12:53- We then went upmarket - and moved to a council house.
0:12:53 > 0:12:55- It was called Erw Wen.
0:12:56 > 0:13:02- I lived there from around 12 years - of age until I went to college.
0:13:02 > 0:13:06- During the 1930s, - Trelawnyd was one big family.
0:13:06 > 0:13:09- You had the chapel family...
0:13:10 > 0:13:12- ..the chapel fellowship's family...
0:13:13 > 0:13:15- ..and the choirs' associations.
0:13:15 > 0:13:18- It was as though - you were enveloped in it.
0:13:19 > 0:13:22- You felt safe.
0:13:23 > 0:13:28- To this day, I still remember - the love that surrounded me.
0:13:28 > 0:13:34- Later, the Crosville buses would - bring romance into Rhys's life.
0:13:35 > 0:13:40- Before that, in his childhood, one - bus journey he made changed his life.
0:13:41 > 0:13:45- We were going to school one morning - and a plump, red-faced man...
0:13:45 > 0:13:49- ..got on the bus - and came to sit next to me.
0:13:50 > 0:13:54- He asked me so many questions, - including what my interests were.
0:13:54 > 0:13:56- "Music," I said.
0:13:56 > 0:13:58- "What sort of music do you like?"
0:13:59 > 0:14:01- The man was Brother Redmond...
0:14:01 > 0:14:06- ..a priest at Mia Hall, which was - a school for evacuees at that time.
0:14:06 > 0:14:09- The following Sunday, - he sent a gramophone...
0:14:10 > 0:14:13- ..and a collection of 78s - for Rhys to borrow.
0:14:13 > 0:14:17- The little boy from Trelawnyd was - introduced to a new world of music.
0:14:18 > 0:14:20- "Do you do any Chopin?," he asked.
0:14:20 > 0:14:25- If you're a young boy, you don't - learn Chopin. It's difficult.
0:14:25 > 0:14:29- But he found me easier arrangements - of Chopin's music.
0:14:29 > 0:14:31- "Learn those," he said.
0:14:32 > 0:14:35- The man - had certainly spotted something...
0:14:35 > 0:14:40- ..in this young lad - from a little village in Wales...
0:14:40 > 0:14:43- ..that was worth nurturing.
0:14:43 > 0:14:48- Years later, Rhys himself would - go on to inspire a youngster...
0:14:48 > 0:14:52- ..who's since become one - of Wales's most renowned composers.
0:14:53 > 0:14:56- When I was 12 years old, - we moved from Cardiff to Mold.
0:14:57 > 0:15:00- And within weeks...
0:15:01 > 0:15:05- ..a very special teacher-pupil - relationship had developed.
0:15:05 > 0:15:09- If I showed an interest, - he'd show an interest in me.
0:15:10 > 0:15:13- Rhys Jones told me - many years afterwards...
0:15:13 > 0:15:17- ..about the monk who had been - such an influence on him.
0:15:17 > 0:15:21- So there's continuity here.
0:15:21 > 0:15:24- For me, Rhys was the monk.
0:15:24 > 0:15:27- That's how it worked.
0:15:29 > 0:15:33- In amongst the pile of records - Brother Redmond gave me...
0:15:34 > 0:15:37- ..I don't know - what it was doing there...
0:15:37 > 0:15:39- ..but there was a 78...
0:15:40 > 0:15:42- ..of Thomas Fats Waller.
0:15:42 > 0:15:45- I remember Ain't Misbehavin'...
0:15:45 > 0:15:48- ..and When Somebody Thinks - You're Wonderful.
0:15:48 > 0:15:50- I listened to this man...
0:15:51 > 0:15:53- ..and was astounded.
0:15:53 > 0:15:57- That's how I wanted to play - the piano, like Fats Waller.
0:15:57 > 0:16:01- # Ain't Misbehavin' # - Fats Waller
0:16:19 > 0:16:22- As a young teacher...
0:16:22 > 0:16:26- ..Rhys relocated - to this mining village in the 1940s.
0:16:26 > 0:16:29- I'd never been to Ffynnongroyw...
0:16:29 > 0:16:33- ..until I was sent here - in September 1948.
0:16:33 > 0:16:35- I have very fond memories.
0:16:35 > 0:16:37- I was here for three years.
0:16:37 > 0:16:43- I taught at Ysgol Daniel Owen, Mold, - then back to Ffynnongroyw in 1953.
0:16:43 > 0:16:48- I always tell people - the important events of that year.
0:16:48 > 0:16:52- It was the Queen's coronation, - Everest was conquered...
0:16:52 > 0:16:55- ..I became headmaster - of this school...
0:16:56 > 0:16:58- ..and Gwen and I got married.
0:16:58 > 0:17:01- The village had a male choir, - the Point of Ayr Choir.
0:17:02 > 0:17:05- There was a mixed choir - and a children's choir too.
0:17:05 > 0:17:07- There was a band - and drama associations.
0:17:08 > 0:17:10- This was the second bus journey...
0:17:10 > 0:17:14- ..that would change - the course of Rhys's life.
0:17:14 > 0:17:16- You're on Candid Camera!
0:17:18 > 0:17:19- One day...
0:17:19 > 0:17:24- ..I saw a girl with very black hair - stepping off the bus...
0:17:24 > 0:17:26- ..it was love at first sight.
0:17:26 > 0:17:30- That was it. - There was nothing I could do.
0:17:30 > 0:17:32- So we started...
0:17:32 > 0:17:34- ..getting serious.
0:17:34 > 0:17:38- Don't go into too much detail - on the television, Gwen!
0:17:38 > 0:17:43- We started courting in 1949, - or around about that time.
0:17:44 > 0:17:46- We got married in 1953.
0:17:48 > 0:17:51- We've been married for 57 years.
0:17:52 > 0:17:55- We've led very happy lives, - full of cultural activity.
0:17:55 > 0:18:00- Gwen sang, she won the mezzo-soprano - solo five times at the Eisteddfod.
0:18:00 > 0:18:02- To this day, Mam and Dad...
0:18:03 > 0:18:07- ..are like two teenagers in love.
0:18:07 > 0:18:12- There's no doubt about that. - They're head over heels in love.
0:18:12 > 0:18:14- They still hold hands.
0:18:14 > 0:18:17- One will say, - "You know I love you, don't you?"
0:18:17 > 0:18:20- They give each other soppy cards.
0:18:21 > 0:18:24- John Lloyd is a close friend.
0:18:24 > 0:18:28- He was a schoolboy in Ffynnongroyw - in the early 1950s.
0:18:28 > 0:18:33- I remember delivering love letters - from school...
0:18:34 > 0:18:39- ..to Glascoed where Gwen lived.
0:18:39 > 0:18:42- I've told Rhys many a time...
0:18:42 > 0:18:46- ..that I believe I'm responsible...
0:18:46 > 0:18:50- ..for Caryl and Dafydd being born.
0:18:50 > 0:18:52- Not in that way, of course!
0:18:52 > 0:18:57- If I'd thrown the letters away...
0:18:57 > 0:19:00- ..Gwen and Rhys - wouldn't be together now.
0:19:00 > 0:19:04- And there wouldn't be a Dafydd Rhys - or a Caryl Parry Jones.
0:19:05 > 0:19:08- Gwen and Rhys - made their home in Ffynnongroyw...
0:19:08 > 0:19:11- ..and enjoyed a golden age - of performing...
0:19:12 > 0:19:15- ..of non-stop rehearsals - and choir practices...
0:19:15 > 0:19:18- ..amid a happy home life.
0:19:18 > 0:19:22- One of the most vivid memories - from my childhood...
0:19:22 > 0:19:25- ..is of Mam - always looking like a princess.
0:19:25 > 0:19:27- She was so beautiful.
0:19:27 > 0:19:31- She wore the most glamorous dresses.
0:19:31 > 0:19:33- Gold stilettos...
0:19:33 > 0:19:36- ..immaculate hair and pearls.
0:19:36 > 0:19:39- Dad would dress in his dinner suit - or tails...
0:19:40 > 0:19:43- ..depending on the occasion, - to perform.
0:19:43 > 0:19:47- My brother and I - would go and stay with Nain.
0:19:48 > 0:19:52- We spent a lot of time with Nain, - which wasn't a bad thing at all...
0:19:52 > 0:19:57- ..so that Dad and Mam - could pursue their other careers.
0:19:58 > 0:20:00- It was their social life too.
0:20:00 > 0:20:05- At the time, people would come - to the house and sing.
0:20:05 > 0:20:09- Gwen had a friend, - the late Gwyn Jones, Bryn Palmant...
0:20:09 > 0:20:13- ..who had one of the best voices - in the world.
0:20:13 > 0:20:15- I truly believe that.
0:20:15 > 0:20:20- Gwyn and Gwen were learning a new - duet called The Singing Lesson.
0:20:20 > 0:20:23- They were busy practising - when there was a knock at the door.
0:20:24 > 0:20:27- I checked my watch - and it was midnight.
0:20:27 > 0:20:30- It was Eddie from next door.
0:20:30 > 0:20:32- "Uncle Ellis is in bed."
0:20:32 > 0:20:34- "Sorry, Eddie," I said.
0:20:34 > 0:20:37- "No, no, he's asking - if you'll sing it again."
0:20:38 > 0:20:39- We knew all these songs.
0:20:40 > 0:20:42- # Watchman, the night is long #
0:20:42 > 0:20:46- They'd sing all the great arias - by different composers.
0:20:47 > 0:20:49- Gretchen am Spinnrade.
0:20:49 > 0:20:51- # My bosom, Lord #
0:20:52 > 0:20:56- Arias from every classical period.
0:20:56 > 0:21:00- From Handel to William Mathias.
0:21:00 > 0:21:04- I knew them all - because I'd heard them so often.
0:21:06 > 0:21:11- In time, Rhys added songs - to the collection of solos.
0:21:11 > 0:21:15- Beautiful, melodious songs - such as Cilfan Y Coed.
0:21:15 > 0:21:18- Songs which may sound - simple enough...
0:21:19 > 0:21:22- ..but challenge a new generation - of young soloists.
0:21:26 > 0:21:33- # Shade in the trees
0:21:35 > 0:21:42- # Silent and still
0:21:43 > 0:21:49- # When storm clouds gather
0:21:49 > 0:21:57- # Go there I will
0:21:58 > 0:22:05- # Shade in the trees
0:22:07 > 0:22:14- # Troubles will cease
0:22:15 > 0:22:23- # There shall I find contentment
0:22:25 > 0:22:32- # Peace, perfect peace
0:22:49 > 0:22:54- # When bitter winds are blowing
0:22:55 > 0:22:59- # There shall I flee
0:23:01 > 0:23:07- # Winter gales about me beating
0:23:07 > 0:23:13- # Fear not for me
0:23:14 > 0:23:18- # When all around is shaking
0:23:19 > 0:23:24- # There I'll be free
0:23:26 > 0:23:32- # God's perfect blessing
0:23:33 > 0:23:39- # Tranquillity #
0:23:41 > 0:23:42- .
0:23:44 > 0:23:44- 888
0:23:44 > 0:23:46- 888- - 888
0:23:52 > 0:23:56- I was born in 1927 - which makes me 83 years old now.
0:23:58 > 0:24:02- We were born during an ideal era.
0:24:02 > 0:24:04- The war ended in 1945...
0:24:04 > 0:24:09- ..I went into the army - in 1946 until 1948.
0:24:09 > 0:24:11- Then I went to teach.
0:24:12 > 0:24:17- After WWII, young men had to complete - two years' national service.
0:24:17 > 0:24:22- Rhys was sent to Nesscliffe, on - the border between Wales and England.
0:24:23 > 0:24:30- Over 60 years have passed - since I was last in this room.
0:24:30 > 0:24:32- It was 1947.
0:24:32 > 0:24:35- I stayed at this particular camp - for five months.
0:24:36 > 0:24:39- It was here - that I played the piano...
0:24:40 > 0:24:43- ..for a dance band of Germans.
0:24:43 > 0:24:45- They were prisoners of war.
0:24:46 > 0:24:51- Their pianist returned home - because his mother had died.
0:24:51 > 0:24:54- I was given the job - of playing with the band.
0:24:55 > 0:24:58- It was a weird mix of instruments.
0:24:58 > 0:25:01- We had a drummer and a pianist, - of course.
0:25:01 > 0:25:05- A double bass player, a violinist...
0:25:05 > 0:25:07- ..and a French horn player.
0:25:08 > 0:25:11- We'd play in here - where the dances were held.
0:25:11 > 0:25:15- This room hasn't changed a bit - since I was here last.
0:25:15 > 0:25:19- It's exactly as it was - all those years ago.
0:25:19 > 0:25:24- The memories are flying through - my mind as I'm looking around.
0:25:25 > 0:25:27- That was the stage.
0:25:27 > 0:25:33- It's been boarded up now but that's - where the band used to perform.
0:25:33 > 0:25:36- And here is where they would dance.
0:25:37 > 0:25:41- All the music I've written, - especially the rhythmic pieces...
0:25:41 > 0:25:44- ..are very reminiscent of the 1920s.
0:25:44 > 0:25:46- As a band...
0:25:47 > 0:25:52- ..we'd either play waltzes - - sedate pieces by Franz Lehar...
0:25:52 > 0:25:56- ..or big band music - such as Glenn Miller's In The Mood.
0:25:56 > 0:26:01- When the Germans played Franz - Lehar's Gold And Silver Waltz...
0:26:01 > 0:26:04- ..their interpretation was perfect.
0:26:04 > 0:26:06- # Dee-dee da-da-dee #
0:26:07 > 0:26:09- Perfect. Violin and French horn.
0:26:10 > 0:26:13- But when they played In The Mood, - Glenn Miller, instead of...
0:26:14 > 0:26:17- # Rump-ah-dub-ah-dub-ah - dub-ah-dub-ah-dub-bah #...
0:26:17 > 0:26:20- ..it was, - # Rat-tat-tat-tat-tat-tat-tat-tat #
0:26:20 > 0:26:22- Their style was all wrong.
0:26:23 > 0:26:26- But they played the foxtrot - and waltzes perfectly.
0:26:26 > 0:26:28- The quickstep wasn't very good.
0:26:29 > 0:26:31- They were nice lads.
0:26:31 > 0:26:35- To think they were enemies - five years earlier...
0:26:35 > 0:26:41- ..and five years later they became - friends and co-musicians.
0:26:41 > 0:26:47- He completed his national service - in Chester, teaching literacy.
0:26:47 > 0:26:51- He then returned the short distance - to Flintshire...
0:26:51 > 0:26:54- ..where he taught young children - in Ffynnongroyw.
0:26:55 > 0:27:00- Children have been singing - Rhys's songs throughout the years.
0:27:00 > 0:27:02- # Dic and Doc and Deio
0:27:02 > 0:27:04- # And Mic and Moc and Mo
0:27:04 > 0:27:07- # And Mici were the names
0:27:07 > 0:27:09- # Of the seven who came to town
0:27:09 > 0:27:11- # Seven lazy loafers
0:27:11 > 0:27:13- # Pretending they wanted work
0:27:13 > 0:27:16- # All with innocent faces
0:27:16 > 0:27:18- # And a twinkle in the eye
0:27:18 > 0:27:20- # Seven strange men
0:27:20 > 0:27:22- # Sitting on the gate
0:27:22 > 0:27:24- # The seven are all happy now
0:27:25 > 0:27:27- # Their stomachs full of food
0:27:27 > 0:27:29- # Dic and Doc and Deio
0:27:29 > 0:27:31- # And Mic and Moc and Mo
0:27:32 > 0:27:37- # And Mici - the names of them all
0:27:37 > 0:27:42- # And in this town they now belong #
0:27:45 > 0:27:49- # At the end of a long summer's day
0:27:49 > 0:27:54- # I will sleep soundly in my bed
0:27:54 > 0:27:57- # Tender is the night
0:27:57 > 0:28:00- # On a bed of roses
0:28:00 > 0:28:05- # At the end of a long summer's day
0:28:05 > 0:28:10- # A bird chirping in the grove
0:28:10 > 0:28:15- # Soothes and lulls me to sleep
0:28:15 > 0:28:18- # His song so sweet
0:28:18 > 0:28:21- # Before the arrival of stars
0:28:21 > 0:28:26- # Giving praise - for the day's sunshine
0:28:26 > 0:28:31- # At the end of a long summer's day
0:28:31 > 0:28:36- # I will sleep soundly in my bed
0:28:37 > 0:28:39- # Tender is the night
0:28:39 > 0:28:42- # On a bed of roses
0:28:43 > 0:28:49- # At the end - of a long summer's day #
0:28:56 > 0:29:00- Among the numerous children who - flourished under Rhys's tutelage...
0:29:01 > 0:29:02- ..is Gareth Glyn.
0:29:03 > 0:29:06- I wouldn't be a composer - if it wasn't for him.
0:29:06 > 0:29:09- The influence a teacher has...
0:29:09 > 0:29:14- ..and the relationship between tutor - and the pupil he's mentoring...
0:29:14 > 0:29:17- ..is immeasurable.
0:29:17 > 0:29:19- When Gareth Glyn was 12 years old...
0:29:20 > 0:29:23- ..he moved from Cardiff - to Ysgol Maes Garmon in Mold.
0:29:24 > 0:29:26- It's like coming to the Hilton - or the Marriott.
0:29:27 > 0:29:29- How long has that been there?
0:29:30 > 0:29:32- About four years now.
0:29:34 > 0:29:37- Hello, ladies. - How are you? Are you alright?
0:29:37 > 0:29:39- Do you do bed and breakfast?
0:29:40 > 0:29:42- No, not quite.
0:29:43 > 0:29:47- Very nice. I think this area - is particularly attractive.
0:29:47 > 0:29:51- It's a grand entrance - to the rest of the school, isn't it?
0:29:52 > 0:29:54- Let me move this a moment.
0:29:55 > 0:29:59- Even in the formal atmosphere - of the school hall...
0:29:59 > 0:30:03- ..Rhys's mischievousness - isn't far away.
0:30:03 > 0:30:07- When a parents' evening - is dragging on...
0:30:08 > 0:30:11- # Now Is The Hour #
0:30:18 > 0:30:20- That'll get them to leave.
0:30:20 > 0:30:26- I'm not sure they'll leave - because of the prompt...
0:30:26 > 0:30:29- ..or because they didn't like - the way I played it.
0:30:31 > 0:30:34- I remember one show in particular...
0:30:34 > 0:30:37- ..when Rhys Ifans was a pupil here.
0:30:38 > 0:30:43- They had decided to stage a show - called Rhys...
0:30:43 > 0:30:45- ..about Rhys Lewis.
0:30:45 > 0:30:50- And I was asked to write the music - for it.
0:30:50 > 0:30:54- Carys Tudor was the show's producer.
0:30:55 > 0:31:00- We were in this hall and rehearsing - the scene where Seth dies.
0:31:00 > 0:31:04- Carys Tudor said, - "A prayer would be good here."
0:31:04 > 0:31:07- "Say a prayer, Rhys."
0:31:07 > 0:31:10- I'll never forget it.
0:31:10 > 0:31:13- Everybody closed their eyes - and Rhys said...
0:31:13 > 0:31:17- .."We thank you, Lord, - for Seth and his life.
0:31:17 > 0:31:20- "We're very sorry for his death.
0:31:20 > 0:31:22- "Look after him. Amen."
0:31:22 > 0:31:26- And when he got up, - everybody was crying.
0:31:26 > 0:31:31- It was so emotional - that Rhys Ifans...
0:31:31 > 0:31:34- ..could express so perfectly...
0:31:35 > 0:31:38- ..something that was needed - at that particular time.
0:31:39 > 0:31:43- I remember Carys wiping away a tear - when Rhys said the prayer.
0:31:43 > 0:31:45- I wonder if he remembers.
0:31:45 > 0:31:48- Rhys Lewis, Rhys Ifans - and Rhys Jones.
0:31:49 > 0:31:53- It was also here - at Ysgol Maes Garmon...
0:31:53 > 0:31:57- ..that he began composing in - partnership with Aled Lloyd Davies.
0:31:58 > 0:32:01- Unusually, - Rhys composes the score first...
0:32:02 > 0:32:06- ..for Aled to write lyrics which - are set artistically to the music.
0:32:07 > 0:32:10- One morning, - a boy turned up at my door.
0:32:10 > 0:32:13- "Mr Jones has sent you this.
0:32:13 > 0:32:19- "The only message is, - do you think this will do?"
0:32:19 > 0:32:25- It was a sol-fa arrangement - of a song he'd been working on.
0:32:25 > 0:32:29- The idea had come to him the night - before and he'd written it down.
0:32:29 > 0:32:31- It needed words.
0:32:32 > 0:32:34- It was during this particular time...
0:32:35 > 0:32:40- ..that one of Wales's most dramatic - anthems was written.
0:32:41 > 0:32:45- I asked Aled - to adapt the lyrics of "O Gymru".
0:32:45 > 0:32:48- I wasn't sure how to conclude it.
0:32:48 > 0:32:52- The end is something like this.
0:33:00 > 0:33:02- But I wanted something else.
0:33:02 > 0:33:06- And a 15-year-old Gareth - came up with an idea.
0:33:07 > 0:33:13- He said to me, "What if we used - a G flat major chord?"
0:33:15 > 0:33:17- G flat major against that.
0:33:18 > 0:33:23- It sounds dreadfully discordant.
0:33:35 > 0:33:38- The last four chords - Gareth Glyn.
0:33:38 > 0:33:40- He hasn't asked for a penny.
0:33:40 > 0:33:45- The sign of a good song, - a good melody...
0:33:45 > 0:33:50- ..is if you can change the harmonies - below the melody.
0:33:50 > 0:33:53- It's a simple melody...
0:33:53 > 0:33:55- ..but a very powerful one.
0:33:55 > 0:33:59- You can play around with the chords.
0:34:00 > 0:34:02- Singing it is always an experience.
0:34:03 > 0:34:10- # You're the only country for me
0:34:12 > 0:34:18- # Oh-oh, my Gwalia
0:34:19 > 0:34:26- # You bring joy to my heart
0:34:27 > 0:34:33- # You are my paradise
0:34:34 > 0:34:38- # Oh Wales, oh Wales
0:34:39 > 0:34:41- # I give you my life
0:34:42 > 0:34:46- # Oh Gwalia, oh Gwalia
0:34:46 > 0:34:49- # You are my heaven
0:34:49 > 0:34:53- # My Gwalia
0:34:53 > 0:34:59- # You are my sunshine
0:35:01 > 0:35:05- # Ooh-ooh
0:35:05 > 0:35:13- # When I'm sometimes troubled
0:35:14 > 0:35:20- # You soothe me
0:35:22 > 0:35:30- # The beauty of your hills - and valleys
0:35:31 > 0:35:38- # The place of my birth
0:35:40 > 0:35:45- # Oh Wales, oh Wales
0:35:45 > 0:35:48- # I give you my life
0:35:48 > 0:35:53- # Oh Gwalia, oh Gwalia
0:35:53 > 0:35:56- # You are my paradise
0:35:56 > 0:36:00- # My Gwalia
0:36:00 > 0:36:05- # You are my sunshine
0:36:05 > 0:36:10- # You are my sunshine
0:36:10 > 0:36:13- # You are my sunshine
0:36:14 > 0:36:18- # You are my sunshine
0:36:18 > 0:36:20- # Sunshine
0:36:20 > 0:36:24- # Ooh-ooh-ooh-ooh
0:36:24 > 0:36:28- # Aah-aah
0:36:28 > 0:36:32- # Oh, my Gwalia
0:36:33 > 0:36:37- # I give you
0:36:37 > 0:36:44- # My joyful song
0:36:44 > 0:36:49- # A song of praise
0:36:49 > 0:36:53- # I sing to you
0:36:53 > 0:36:59- # You are my sunshine
0:37:00 > 0:37:04- # Oh Wales, oh Wales
0:37:04 > 0:37:07- # I give you my life
0:37:07 > 0:37:12- # Oh Gwalia, oh Gwalia
0:37:13 > 0:37:15- # You are my heaven
0:37:15 > 0:37:19- # My Gwalia
0:37:20 > 0:37:23- # My sunshine
0:37:25 > 0:37:33- # You are my sunshine
0:37:33 > 0:37:38- # You are my sunshine
0:37:38 > 0:37:43- # My sunshine
0:37:43 > 0:37:47- # Ooh #
0:37:48 > 0:37:49- .
0:37:53 > 0:37:53- 888
0:37:53 > 0:37:54- 888- - 888
0:38:11 > 0:38:16- I don't know anyone else - who can play the piano like that...
0:38:16 > 0:38:18- ..this side of Manhattan.
0:38:18 > 0:38:21- His musical dexterity...
0:38:21 > 0:38:24- ..is far cleverer - than he thinks it is.
0:38:24 > 0:38:29- This is one of Rhys's incredible - arrangements of a popular tune.
0:38:29 > 0:38:33- He's taken it from its folk origins - and given it some grandeur.
0:38:34 > 0:38:39- Rhys was a schoolboy of 16 when he - composed this remarkable piece...
0:38:39 > 0:38:42- ..entitled Ffantasia Sosban Fach.
0:38:42 > 0:38:45- During a Flintshire schools' rally - in Rhyl...
0:38:46 > 0:38:49- ..Rhys was asked to take part - in the closing ceremony.
0:38:50 > 0:38:53- The trouble with playing the piano - publicly...
0:38:53 > 0:38:57- ..say if I were to play Fur Elise...
0:38:57 > 0:39:01- ..by the time I'd reached the bottom - of the first page...
0:39:01 > 0:39:05- ..the audience would be familiar - with the tune.
0:39:05 > 0:39:08- So I decided to compose something...
0:39:08 > 0:39:10- ..that nobody else could judge.
0:39:11 > 0:39:13- Only I would know how it went.
0:39:14 > 0:39:18- In the audience were academics - from Aberystwyth University.
0:39:18 > 0:39:23- He was offered a university - scholarship there and then.
0:39:24 > 0:39:26- I remember my father saying...
0:39:26 > 0:39:30- .."Three years at university - and two years national service.
0:39:30 > 0:39:34- "It'll be five years - before you start earning any money."
0:39:35 > 0:39:37- So I didn't respond.
0:39:37 > 0:39:40- I didn't take up the offer.
0:39:41 > 0:39:45- After spending a year in Dyserth - as a student teacher...
0:39:45 > 0:39:50- ..Rhys, like many of his generation, - studied at Bangor Normal College...
0:39:50 > 0:39:54- ..before taking a teaching post - back home in Ffynnongroyw.
0:39:54 > 0:39:56- It was a sociable household.
0:39:56 > 0:40:00- Many of Mam and Dad's friends - were college material...
0:40:01 > 0:40:04- ..they just didn't get - the opportunity to go.
0:40:04 > 0:40:08- You could tell they were intelligent - by the way they sang.
0:40:08 > 0:40:11- Their voices were world class.
0:40:11 > 0:40:16- This was the golden age in which the - choir Cantorion Gwalia was formed.
0:40:16 > 0:40:21- I was an only child, - but being with Cantorion Gwalia...
0:40:21 > 0:40:24- ..made me feel - as though I had 18 brothers.
0:40:25 > 0:40:27- We performed 20 concerts a year.
0:40:27 > 0:40:32- So, how many is that over 45 years?
0:40:33 > 0:40:36- The singing bound us together.
0:40:36 > 0:40:39- Hywel Price was one - of the early members...
0:40:40 > 0:40:43- ..and later, his son, Dilwyn, - joined the singers.
0:40:43 > 0:40:49- As a child, I remember Dad going out - in his tails and dicky bow.
0:40:49 > 0:40:52- They wore tails when they performed.
0:40:52 > 0:40:55- These singers were hand picked.
0:40:55 > 0:40:58- And they were excellent singers.
0:40:58 > 0:41:00- The sound they created was amazing.
0:41:01 > 0:41:05- Dad arranged the songs - in his own unique way.
0:41:06 > 0:41:10- He'd put an American twist - to a tune such as Arafa Don...
0:41:10 > 0:41:13- ..which is a tenor solo.
0:41:13 > 0:41:15- He'd arrange it for a choir.
0:41:16 > 0:41:19- He'd inject a bit of Fats Waller - into it.
0:41:20 > 0:41:22- A chord would appear from nowhere.
0:41:22 > 0:41:26- They were very different - from any other choir.
0:41:26 > 0:41:32- About 50 years ago, Cantorion Gwalia - were the very first Only Men Aloud.
0:41:36 > 0:41:43- # Oh, my beloved child #
0:41:43 > 0:41:46- Then I was invited to join - the singers.
0:41:46 > 0:41:49- I still can't believe it. - I have to pinch myself.
0:41:49 > 0:41:53- Cantorion Gwalia was a choir - of amateur soloists.
0:41:53 > 0:41:56- From teachers to miners, - from managers to farmers.
0:41:57 > 0:42:00- We were taking cattle - to the Abergele fair...
0:42:01 > 0:42:05- ..when we came across - Ken Jones, Aron, a bass soloist.
0:42:05 > 0:42:09- I remember the exact spot - where we had been chatting.
0:42:09 > 0:42:12- "Would you be interested - in joining us?" he asked.
0:42:13 > 0:42:18- I couldn't answer him - because it was so unexpected.
0:42:18 > 0:42:21- I never missed one practice...
0:42:21 > 0:42:24- ..nor one concert - while I was with them.
0:42:24 > 0:42:26- I enjoyed myself so much.
0:42:27 > 0:42:30- Cantorion Gwalia, for Dad, - was a boys' night out.
0:42:31 > 0:42:35- And the stories about the fun - they had...
0:42:35 > 0:42:38- ..should be turned into a book.
0:42:38 > 0:42:41- I remember having a photograph taken - in Flint.
0:42:41 > 0:42:43- On our way to the stage...
0:42:43 > 0:42:47- ..one of the lads - put his foot in a geranium pot.
0:42:48 > 0:42:51- He's the only man - to have had his photo taken...
0:42:51 > 0:42:54- ..with his foot in a geranium pot.
0:42:54 > 0:42:56- Those are the things you remember.
0:42:56 > 0:43:01- The stories about Cantorion Gwalia - are too numerous to mention.
0:43:02 > 0:43:04- They sang Pedro The Fisherman.
0:43:04 > 0:43:07- # Dah da-da-darra-darra - dah-dah da-da #
0:43:07 > 0:43:12- It's a jolly song but they have - to whistle the last verse.
0:43:12 > 0:43:15- They'd all had - a couple of drinks...
0:43:15 > 0:43:20- ..and they couldn't whistle - because they were laughing so much.
0:43:21 > 0:43:26- We went to France - to the Celtic Festival in Lorient.
0:43:26 > 0:43:29- Rhys was determined to speak French.
0:43:29 > 0:43:31- He did an introduction.
0:43:32 > 0:43:35- "Mesdames et messieurs..." - He had a big clap for that.
0:43:36 > 0:43:39- "Teneur magnifique..." - Another big clap.
0:43:39 > 0:43:43- "Nom de plume..." Everyone - was on the edge of their seat.
0:43:43 > 0:43:45- .."Dai O'Rhea!"
0:43:45 > 0:43:48- We were all standing there, - trying not to laugh.
0:43:48 > 0:43:51- But the bus driver - was sitting at the back.
0:43:52 > 0:43:56- He fell off his chair, laughing, - as everyone else clapped.
0:43:56 > 0:44:00- And poor Penri - made his way to the stage to sing.
0:44:00 > 0:44:04- Nobody could sing like Penri.
0:44:04 > 0:44:06- So he began to sing.
0:44:06 > 0:44:10- We had so much fun. But that wasn't - the first time we'd been abroad.
0:44:11 > 0:44:13- We used to say, Gwalia on tour.
0:44:13 > 0:44:17- My secretary, Meuryn Ellis, - received a phone call...
0:44:17 > 0:44:20- ..from a lady in Pwllheli...
0:44:20 > 0:44:25- ..asking if we were free - for a week from 1 March.
0:44:25 > 0:44:31- "Oh, yes," said Meuryn, - "We've never been to Pwllheli."
0:44:31 > 0:44:35- "Not Pwllheli," she said, "I'm - talking about Lagos, Nigeria."
0:44:36 > 0:44:38- So we went to Lagos, Nigeria.
0:44:38 > 0:44:44- Seeing such wealth - contrasted with so much poverty...
0:44:45 > 0:44:47- ..was astounding.
0:44:47 > 0:44:52- Going out with Cantorion Gwalia - was like one big party...
0:44:52 > 0:44:55- ..because each had - their own personality...
0:44:56 > 0:44:58- ..and contribution to make.
0:44:58 > 0:45:01- Some were quiet - and hardly spoke at all...
0:45:01 > 0:45:04- ..but when they did, - it was worth hearing.
0:45:04 > 0:45:08- Being responsible for - Cantorion Gwalia over 45 years...
0:45:09 > 0:45:11- ..has been incredibly important - to me.
0:45:12 > 0:45:17- And what if Rhys Jones had accepted - that scholarship to Aberystwyth...
0:45:17 > 0:45:20- ..when he was just 16 years old?
0:45:21 > 0:45:26- There would have been a huge void - in the musical development...
0:45:26 > 0:45:29- ..of us as individuals in this area.
0:45:29 > 0:45:34- And imagine the loss to the nation.
0:45:34 > 0:45:37- He would have had - a lot of television work...
0:45:37 > 0:45:40- ..and much more work as a conductor.
0:45:40 > 0:45:43- He would definitely have had - more work as a musician too.
0:45:44 > 0:45:48- It's so ironic because Dad - would have left Aberystwyth...
0:45:48 > 0:45:52- ..with a first class honours degree, - without a doubt...
0:45:52 > 0:45:55- ..because his musical brain is huge.
0:45:55 > 0:46:00- If I'd gone to university, - I wouldn't have met Gwen...
0:46:00 > 0:46:03- ..Caryl and Dafydd - wouldn't have been born...
0:46:03 > 0:46:06- ..and neither would - the grandchildren.
0:46:06 > 0:46:11- The way things worked out, - I think I got the best deal.
0:48:03 > 0:48:05- S4C Subtitles by Simian 04 Cyf.
0:48:05 > 0:48:06- .