0:00:00 > 0:00:00- Subtitles
0:00:00 > 0:00:02- Subtitles- - Subtitles
0:00:03 > 0:00:05- I'm Rhys Meirion.
0:00:05 > 0:00:08- In the coming weeks, - I'll enjoy the company...
0:00:09 > 0:00:12- ..of some of Wales's - most talented singers.
0:00:12 > 0:00:16- I'll travel to all sorts of places, - some further than others.
0:00:16 > 0:00:18- We'll share stories...
0:00:18 > 0:00:22- ..and of course, - there will be plenty of singing.
0:00:22 > 0:00:27- I'll invite the artistes - to the studio to sing duets.
0:00:27 > 0:00:30- We'll have fun - and tackle a few challenges.
0:00:30 > 0:00:33- I'll choose a song - to sing with them...
0:00:33 > 0:00:37- ..and they'll choose - a song to sing with me.
0:00:38 > 0:00:40- Welcome to Deuawdau Rhys Meirion.
0:00:57 > 0:01:01- I've come to Mid Wales, - to the heart of Montgomeryshire.
0:01:01 > 0:01:05- That's the first clue - about this week's artiste.
0:01:07 > 0:01:12- Robat Arwyn thinks she has - the sexiest voice in Wales.
0:01:13 > 0:01:14- I agree.
0:01:16 > 0:01:19- # I worked for a season
0:01:20 > 0:01:23- # Near Ty'n Y Coed #
0:01:24 > 0:01:26- She lives in a remote spot.
0:01:28 > 0:01:31- One of her CDs is "Distaw".
0:01:32 > 0:01:35- That might give you another clue.
0:01:36 > 0:01:39- # The trees sighed in the breeze
0:01:40 > 0:01:44- # My heart broke
0:01:44 > 0:01:47- # Despite all these #
0:01:53 > 0:01:55- Hello!
0:01:55 > 0:01:56- Hello!
0:01:57 > 0:01:59- I've just put the kettle on.
0:01:59 > 0:02:01- Thanks. How are you?
0:02:01 > 0:02:03- Fine. Nice to see you.
0:02:03 > 0:02:04- You live in a lovely place.
0:02:04 > 0:02:06- You live in a lovely place.- - It's great.
0:02:06 > 0:02:07- Marvellous.
0:02:07 > 0:02:09- Did you have trouble on the lane?
0:02:09 > 0:02:10- Did you have trouble on the lane?- - No.
0:02:11 > 0:02:13- Is your exhaust down there?
0:02:13 > 0:02:15- I'll look when I get home!
0:02:16 > 0:02:18- If you haven't already guessed...
0:02:19 > 0:02:22- ..this week's guest - is folk singer Sian James.
0:02:22 > 0:02:26- Sian is well-known - in Wales and further afield.
0:02:26 > 0:02:30- She has performed in Patagonia - and Canada this year.
0:02:30 > 0:02:34- But her roots are deep here - in her home, Gardden.
0:02:34 > 0:02:38- It has been in the family - for a very long time.
0:02:38 > 0:02:43- Apparently, the Jameses - have lived here since 1756.
0:02:43 > 0:02:45- Wow!
0:02:45 > 0:02:47- Wow!- - It's hard to believe.
0:02:47 > 0:02:49- We've done the place up.
0:02:49 > 0:02:52- There was small step in the parlour.
0:02:52 > 0:02:57- Under the step, - we found small hobnail boots...
0:02:57 > 0:03:00- ..a child's boots.
0:03:02 > 0:03:07- That was the tradition, to bring - luck and children to the house.
0:03:08 > 0:03:13- Shoes were buried in a place - like that, or under the fireplace.
0:03:13 > 0:03:16- I have them, over there.
0:03:17 > 0:03:22- It struck me that my family's DNA - was in those boots.
0:03:24 > 0:03:25- I'm sure.
0:03:25 > 0:03:29- There's a real feeling - of belonging here.
0:03:29 > 0:03:31- I'm sure.
0:03:32 > 0:03:35- The first thing I see is the harp.
0:03:35 > 0:03:36- Yes.
0:03:37 > 0:03:41- Guitars and a piano. Obviously, - a lot of music is played here.
0:03:41 > 0:03:42- Yes.
0:03:42 > 0:03:45- The lads play instruments too.
0:03:46 > 0:03:48- Guitars, piano, drums.
0:03:49 > 0:03:53- And all three have done - up to Grade One on the harp!
0:03:55 > 0:03:56- Great.
0:03:56 > 0:03:58- Just to please Mam.
0:03:58 > 0:03:59- Just to please Mam.- - Fair play.
0:03:59 > 0:04:00- Can I hear it?
0:04:00 > 0:04:01- Can I hear it?- - Yes.
0:04:01 > 0:04:03- Play something.
0:04:03 > 0:04:04- I love the harp.
0:04:06 > 0:04:08- It's a lovely harp.
0:04:09 > 0:04:11- You know this.
0:04:12 > 0:04:14- # LISA LAN #
0:04:40 > 0:04:41- Do you know it?
0:04:41 > 0:04:42- Do you know it?- - "Lisa Lan".
0:04:42 > 0:04:45- Nice. It creates - a lovely folk sound.
0:04:46 > 0:04:49- We've recorded the same song.
0:04:50 > 0:04:52- It's a remarkable tradition.
0:04:53 > 0:04:55- "Ei Di'r Deryn Du".
0:04:55 > 0:04:56- Yes.
0:04:56 > 0:04:59- Half is in Welsh, half in English.
0:04:59 > 0:05:00- What is that called?
0:05:00 > 0:05:01- What is that called?- - Macaronic.
0:05:01 > 0:05:02- That's it.
0:05:02 > 0:05:05- It's an interesting tradition.
0:05:05 > 0:05:06- Yes.
0:05:06 > 0:05:09- Apparently, - macaronic songs were sung...
0:05:09 > 0:05:13- ..in countries - that had more than one language.
0:05:13 > 0:05:16- There's a line in Welsh, - then in English.
0:05:16 > 0:05:17- Shall we give it a shot?
0:05:17 > 0:05:19- Shall we give it a shot?- - Yes.
0:05:19 > 0:05:21- I'll have to change the levers.
0:05:21 > 0:05:25- If I get the words wrong, - sing with me.
0:05:25 > 0:05:27- I haven't sung it for a long time.
0:05:27 > 0:05:31- Right! I haven't sung it - for a long time either.
0:05:32 > 0:05:33- OK.
0:05:59 > 0:06:05- # Will you go, blackbird
0:06:05 > 0:06:10- # To my dearest love?
0:06:11 > 0:06:17- # Find my sweetest one
0:06:17 > 0:06:23- # For I'm so deep in love
0:06:29 > 0:06:34- # I have never seen
0:06:34 > 0:06:39- # Such a damsel in my sight
0:06:40 > 0:06:46- # As the loveliest lass
0:06:46 > 0:06:52- # She is a beauty bright
0:06:59 > 0:07:04- # Will you go, blackbird
0:07:05 > 0:07:10- # To my dearest love
0:07:11 > 0:07:17- # Find my sweetest one
0:07:18 > 0:07:28- # For I'm so deep in love #
0:07:31 > 0:07:32- Well!
0:07:32 > 0:07:33- Marvellous.
0:07:33 > 0:07:36- That has a superb sound.
0:07:37 > 0:07:38- It's a lovely song too.
0:07:38 > 0:07:39- It's a lovely song too.- - It is.
0:07:40 > 0:07:42- I want to tell you a story.
0:07:43 > 0:07:46- I went to see Robat Arwyn.
0:07:47 > 0:07:49- He took out the CD "Distaw".
0:07:50 > 0:07:54- He put it on. We had a glass - of wine and listened to it.
0:07:54 > 0:07:56- Then Robat Arwyn said...
0:07:56 > 0:07:58- "..She has a sexy voice."
0:07:58 > 0:08:00- LAUGHTER
0:08:02 > 0:08:04- No!
0:08:04 > 0:08:07- Robat Arwyn gave me - permission to tell you!
0:08:08 > 0:08:10- That's sweet.
0:08:11 > 0:08:12- Oh, dear.
0:08:14 > 0:08:18- I hope I didn't embarrass - Sian too much!
0:08:18 > 0:08:21- But we'd broken the musical ice.
0:08:22 > 0:08:26- It was time to start - the first duet, Sian's choice.
0:08:27 > 0:08:31- I knew she wanted to sing - something by Nansi Richards...
0:08:31 > 0:08:34- ..the Harpist Of Montgomeryshire.
0:08:34 > 0:08:38- I must admit - I wasn't sure what to expect.
0:08:38 > 0:08:43- I've just received the song - "Pennant Melangell" from Sian.
0:08:43 > 0:08:45- It's about her area.
0:08:45 > 0:08:47- I had a quick look.
0:08:47 > 0:08:50- I'd say it has - a touch of country music.
0:08:50 > 0:08:53- It's totally different - from what I'm used to.
0:08:53 > 0:08:55- Sian hasn't arrived.
0:08:55 > 0:08:59- I'll pop in to practise, - so I don't make a fool of myself.
0:08:59 > 0:09:00- See you later.
0:09:04 > 0:09:08- The song is about this area - and Nansi Richards, specifically.
0:09:09 > 0:09:14- I thought it would be nice - for us to sing it.
0:09:15 > 0:09:20- The arrangement - is in the country music style.
0:09:22 > 0:09:28- I'm trying to push him - to territory he wouldn't usually go.
0:09:31 > 0:09:32- Hello!
0:09:32 > 0:09:34- Hello!- - How are you?
0:09:35 > 0:09:36- Welcome!
0:09:37 > 0:09:39- Did you have a good journey?
0:09:39 > 0:09:40- Did you have a good journey?- - Yes.
0:09:40 > 0:09:43- Shall we go to the piano - for a practice?
0:09:43 > 0:09:44- Great. Thanks.
0:09:47 > 0:09:49- This is country music.
0:09:49 > 0:09:53- We'll see how I sound. I'm out - of my comfort zone, remember.
0:09:53 > 0:09:55- You'll be great.
0:09:56 > 0:10:00- I suppose the style - is country music.
0:10:01 > 0:10:03- There's a bit of bluegrass too.
0:10:03 > 0:10:06- Great. I'm looking forward.
0:10:13 > 0:10:16- # The breath of her land
0:10:16 > 0:10:20- # Is within me
0:10:20 > 0:10:22- # The paths
0:10:22 > 0:10:26- # Await my footsteps
0:10:28 > 0:10:29- # My name
0:10:30 > 0:10:34- # Was written in the register #
0:10:34 > 0:10:37- I was glad we were doing - a fairly new song.
0:10:38 > 0:10:41- It's a bit different - from what I usually do.
0:10:41 > 0:10:44- It's not purely a folk song.
0:10:44 > 0:10:47- It's nice to sing - some country music.
0:10:47 > 0:10:48- Great.
0:10:51 > 0:10:53- # Remember
0:10:53 > 0:10:56- # To take off
0:10:57 > 0:11:02- # Your cap #
0:11:03 > 0:11:05- There's no need to do that.
0:11:05 > 0:11:07- I don't remember the arrangement.
0:11:07 > 0:11:08- I don't remember the arrangement.- - We'll see.
0:11:08 > 0:11:12- Use the Montgomeryshire - dialect if you like!
0:11:12 > 0:11:14- You say it like that.
0:11:15 > 0:11:16- It's not "giap"!
0:11:16 > 0:11:19- You don't want to say it like that.
0:11:19 > 0:11:24- It'll be fine if you say that, - and I'll say it my way.
0:11:24 > 0:11:28- Coming up, how my Montgomeryshire - accent comes along...
0:11:28 > 0:11:30- ..I get to be a roadie...
0:11:31 > 0:11:34- ..the sad story - behind "Pennant Melangell"...
0:11:34 > 0:11:36- ..and how the song turns out.
0:11:37 > 0:11:39- See you soon.
0:11:39 > 0:11:40- .
0:11:43 > 0:11:43- Subtitles
0:11:43 > 0:11:45- Subtitles- - Subtitles
0:11:45 > 0:11:48- # A light came through the cloud
0:11:48 > 0:11:53- # And sheep came to the lake
0:11:54 > 0:11:58- # Three ducks came to quarrel
0:11:58 > 0:12:04- # And the water was calm
0:12:05 > 0:12:07- # The fire was lit #
0:12:08 > 0:12:12- Sian, this is a lovely spot. - Where are you taking us?
0:12:12 > 0:12:14- This is Llyn Y Grinwydden...
0:12:15 > 0:12:19- ..on the hill looking - down at the Banwy Valley.
0:12:21 > 0:12:26- We'll see the whole - panorama from the top.
0:12:28 > 0:12:29- Look!
0:12:30 > 0:12:31- There you are.
0:12:31 > 0:12:33- LAUGHTER
0:12:33 > 0:12:35- I've conquered Everest.
0:12:35 > 0:12:37- It feels like that.
0:12:37 > 0:12:39- We can see very far.
0:12:39 > 0:12:43- The mountains are in the distance.
0:12:43 > 0:12:45- All this is the Banwy Valley.
0:12:45 > 0:12:46- All this is the Banwy Valley.- - The Banwy Valley.
0:12:47 > 0:12:49- Let's sit for a moment to enjoy it.
0:12:51 > 0:12:54- On the hilltop, - Sian told me a story...
0:12:54 > 0:12:59- ..about her childhood heroine, - who wrote "Pennant Melangell".
0:12:59 > 0:13:03- Nansi Richards was called - the queen of folk harpists.
0:13:03 > 0:13:06- They met in an unexpected place.
0:13:06 > 0:13:08- Nansi was an icon.
0:13:08 > 0:13:14- I was lucky enough to meet her, - when I was about twelve.
0:13:14 > 0:13:17- I'd just started to play the harp.
0:13:17 > 0:13:21- Nansi used to stay - in a house in Meifod.
0:13:21 > 0:13:25- Mam had her hair done - in the same house.
0:13:26 > 0:13:28- I went to the back and met Nansi.
0:13:28 > 0:13:30- We played the harp a little.
0:13:33 > 0:13:37- I'll never forget, - her glasses were like jam pots.
0:13:37 > 0:13:39- She played the harp like this.
0:13:40 > 0:13:43- She followed her fingers - because she couldn't see.
0:13:44 > 0:13:46- She was quite a character.
0:13:46 > 0:13:47- It's getting cold.
0:13:47 > 0:13:48- It's getting cold.- - Yes.
0:13:48 > 0:13:49- Let's go down for a cuppa.
0:13:49 > 0:13:51- Let's go down for a cuppa.- - Good idea.
0:13:51 > 0:13:53- Thanks for bringing me here.
0:13:53 > 0:13:57- People might think - Sian lives in a remote place.
0:13:57 > 0:14:01- But someone always calls - when tea is brewing.
0:14:02 > 0:14:02- Hello!
0:14:02 > 0:14:03- Hello!- - Well, hello.
0:14:03 > 0:14:04- How are you?
0:14:04 > 0:14:06- How are you?- - How are you?
0:14:06 > 0:14:08- This is Lloyd, my brother.
0:14:08 > 0:14:10- How are you?
0:14:10 > 0:14:13- I heard you were here - and that you like cakes.
0:14:13 > 0:14:15- My wife baked a cake for you.
0:14:15 > 0:14:16- My wife baked a cake for you.- - Fair play!
0:14:17 > 0:14:21- Sian told me - about the house's history.
0:14:21 > 0:14:22- It goes back a long way.
0:14:22 > 0:14:24- It goes back a long way.- - Yes.
0:14:24 > 0:14:27- The Jameses have - been here for quite a long time.
0:14:28 > 0:14:32- You said it's risky saying - anything about the Jameses here!
0:14:32 > 0:14:34- We're like the Mafia!
0:14:34 > 0:14:36- The Montgomeryshire Mafia!
0:14:36 > 0:14:38- LAUGHTER
0:14:38 > 0:14:39- We are, a bit.
0:14:40 > 0:14:44- People who said bad things - about the Jameses...
0:14:44 > 0:14:46- ..are buried up there.
0:14:47 > 0:14:49- They've disappeared!
0:14:49 > 0:14:51- They won't find them.
0:14:51 > 0:14:56- After a warning like that, I won't - say anything bad about the Jameses!
0:14:56 > 0:14:59- We returned to "Pennant Melangell".
0:14:59 > 0:15:02- Sian's melody - and Nansi Richards's words...
0:15:02 > 0:15:05- ..could only belong to one place.
0:15:06 > 0:15:08- # Take me back
0:15:08 > 0:15:10- # To Montgomeryshire
0:15:12 > 0:15:15- # The journey
0:15:15 > 0:15:17- # Isn't long #
0:15:18 > 0:15:22- Can I do that again?
0:15:22 > 0:15:24- It's very nice.
0:15:24 > 0:15:26- My voice is a bit...
0:15:27 > 0:15:30- # Remember
0:15:30 > 0:15:32- # To take off your cap
0:15:34 > 0:15:37- # Remember
0:15:37 > 0:15:40- # To take off
0:15:41 > 0:15:43- # Your cap #
0:15:51 > 0:15:55- Great, a lot of that was good. - I don't think we're far from it.
0:15:56 > 0:16:00- It's not a problem if you say "ciap" - and I say "cap".
0:16:00 > 0:16:01- Why not?
0:16:02 > 0:16:07- I'd like to hear you on the London - Tube's tannoy. "Mind the giap!"
0:16:09 > 0:16:12- "Pennant Melangell" was shaping up.
0:16:12 > 0:16:15- My jokes about - Sian's accent were worsening!
0:16:16 > 0:16:18- It was time to hit the road.
0:16:18 > 0:16:22- Sian and her son Mabon - had a gig in Theatr Clwyd.
0:16:22 > 0:16:26- # She knitted the waistcoat - on a cold winter's night
0:16:26 > 0:16:30- # To keep him warm - in the dark moonlight
0:16:30 > 0:16:33- # Tender were the fingers - treating the wool
0:16:34 > 0:16:39- # The waistcoat was warm, - as warm as fire #
0:16:39 > 0:16:43- You're lucky, you only have - to carry your vocal chords!
0:16:43 > 0:16:44- I know.
0:16:44 > 0:16:48- But if you have a cold, - you can still play that.
0:16:48 > 0:16:49- No, you sing too!
0:16:49 > 0:16:50- No, you sing too!- - True.
0:16:51 > 0:16:53- Do you enjoy gigging?
0:16:53 > 0:16:55- Yes.
0:16:57 > 0:16:59- I prefer concerts...
0:17:00 > 0:17:02- ..in small, intimate places.
0:17:02 > 0:17:03- I prefer the opposite.
0:17:03 > 0:17:05- I prefer the opposite.- - You prefer a sea of people!
0:17:05 > 0:17:06- Yes.
0:17:06 > 0:17:08- It's just a blur.
0:17:09 > 0:17:13- With a small crew, - I get more nervous. It's odd.
0:17:14 > 0:17:15- Do you get nervous?
0:17:15 > 0:17:16- Do you get nervous?- - Yes.
0:17:16 > 0:17:20- You'd think, after all - these years, you wouldn't.
0:17:20 > 0:17:22- There's no pattern.
0:17:23 > 0:17:25- I don't understand that.
0:17:25 > 0:17:29- I can be totally calm - when I should be worked up.
0:17:29 > 0:17:34- Other times, - I'm totally worked up and silly.
0:17:38 > 0:17:40- Here you are. Carry on.
0:17:41 > 0:17:42- Do you want sugar?
0:17:42 > 0:17:43- Do you want sugar?- - Yes, please.
0:17:43 > 0:17:46- Sian's son, Mabon, - is in the act now.
0:17:46 > 0:17:51- I must admit I enjoyed not - having to think about performing...
0:17:51 > 0:17:53- ..and being their roadie.
0:17:54 > 0:17:56- Here you are, Sian. Carry on.
0:17:56 > 0:17:57- Here you are, Sian. Carry on.- - Thanks.
0:18:00 > 0:18:04- This was a gig - for Welsh learners in Theatr Clwyd.
0:18:04 > 0:18:07- The audience was familiar with Sian.
0:18:08 > 0:18:09- She has such a lovely voice.
0:18:09 > 0:18:10- She has such a lovely voice.- - It's marvellous.
0:18:11 > 0:18:13- Her voice is so clear.
0:18:13 > 0:18:15- She sings perfectly.
0:18:16 > 0:18:18- Do you have a favourite song?
0:18:18 > 0:18:20- "Yr Eneth Gadd Ei Gwrthod".
0:18:20 > 0:18:21- It's a fine song.
0:18:22 > 0:18:26- I like the melody a great deal. - It always sounds enchanting.
0:18:26 > 0:18:30- It's the way - she takes old folk songs...
0:18:31 > 0:18:34- ..and makes them - relevant to us today.
0:18:36 > 0:18:38- When she sings, she touches people.
0:18:39 > 0:18:41- Her singing is very sincere...
0:18:42 > 0:18:44- ..and always from the heart.
0:18:44 > 0:18:47- Praise indeed, - from fans old and new...
0:18:48 > 0:18:51- ..emphasizing - Sian James's wide appeal.
0:19:00 > 0:19:04- # Lift your heart
0:19:05 > 0:19:09- # Dearest girl
0:19:10 > 0:19:15- # You will get better
0:19:16 > 0:19:22- # When summer comes #
0:19:33 > 0:19:36- That was a fine - performance of "Yr Eneth Glaf".
0:19:36 > 0:19:39- "Pennant Melangell" - was shaping up too.
0:19:41 > 0:19:42- BOTH HUM NOTES
0:19:43 > 0:19:46- There were a lot - of good things there.
0:19:47 > 0:19:51- There were indeed, but before - we praised each other too much...
0:19:51 > 0:19:54- You know your harmony, Rhys? - You sing D.
0:19:54 > 0:19:58- It doesn't matter too much, - but it's not on the copy.
0:19:59 > 0:20:00- # Remember
0:20:00 > 0:20:02- # To take off
0:20:03 > 0:20:04- # Your cap #
0:20:05 > 0:20:07- Sing what's written down, eh, Siwan?
0:20:07 > 0:20:09- Sing what's written down, eh, Siwan?- - Yes.
0:20:09 > 0:20:10- LAUGHTER
0:20:12 > 0:20:13- Someone has gone to trouble!
0:20:13 > 0:20:14- Someone has gone to trouble!- - Yes!
0:20:14 > 0:20:17- I wasn't the only one - who wandered from the copy!
0:20:18 > 0:20:20- # Take me back to Montgomeryshire
0:20:21 > 0:20:23- # The journey
0:20:23 > 0:20:26- # Isn't too lengthy #
0:20:26 > 0:20:28- My lord, I'm writing poetry now!
0:20:28 > 0:20:29- Sorry, Siwan!
0:20:30 > 0:20:33- That's the problem - with shutting your eyes.
0:20:33 > 0:20:35- Sorry, Nansi.
0:20:41 > 0:20:45- Sian chose Pennant Melangell's - church for the performance.
0:20:45 > 0:20:49- But first, she wanted - to show me a special place...
0:20:49 > 0:20:52- ..which was very relevant - for the song.
0:20:53 > 0:20:54- It's over there.
0:20:54 > 0:20:56- It's over there.- - Here it is.
0:20:56 > 0:20:58- Ninety one years old.
0:20:58 > 0:21:00- Amazing.
0:21:00 > 0:21:02- Yes, it's Nansi Richards's grave.
0:21:03 > 0:21:05- You can hear it.
0:21:05 > 0:21:08- You can hear Nant Ewyn!
0:21:08 > 0:21:10- I hadn't thought of that.
0:21:10 > 0:21:13- Of course, the words are apt.
0:21:13 > 0:21:14- Yes.
0:21:15 > 0:21:17- In "Pennant Melangell"...
0:21:17 > 0:21:22- ..Nansi Richards tells of her wish - to be buried in her home area...
0:21:22 > 0:21:26- ..that was such - an inspiration to her.
0:21:26 > 0:21:28- It's lovely here.
0:21:28 > 0:21:30- The tree is marvellous too...
0:21:31 > 0:21:33- ..the old yew.
0:21:34 > 0:21:37- You can imagine seeing fairies.
0:21:37 > 0:21:39- Nansi believed in fairies.
0:21:39 > 0:21:40- Did she?
0:21:40 > 0:21:42- Did she?- - Yes.
0:22:01 > 0:22:04- # Take me back
0:22:05 > 0:22:07- # To Montgomeryshire
0:22:08 > 0:22:11- # The journey
0:22:11 > 0:22:14- # Isn't long
0:22:16 > 0:22:18- # My soul
0:22:18 > 0:22:22- # Is already there
0:22:23 > 0:22:25- # Preparing
0:22:25 > 0:22:29- # For the journey's end
0:22:34 > 0:22:37- # The breath of her land
0:22:37 > 0:22:40- # Is within me
0:22:41 > 0:22:43- # The paths
0:22:43 > 0:22:47- # Await my footsteps
0:22:49 > 0:22:51- # My name
0:22:51 > 0:22:55- # Was written in the register
0:22:56 > 0:22:57- # Before
0:22:58 > 0:23:02- # I took my first steps
0:23:07 > 0:23:10- # My grave
0:23:10 > 0:23:13- # In Pennant Melangell
0:23:14 > 0:23:18- # Will be five feet - and one inch long
0:23:22 > 0:23:25- # The grouse and pheasant
0:23:25 > 0:23:28- # Will come to my side
0:23:29 > 0:23:34- # And so will the shy moorhen
0:23:35 > 0:23:37- # And I'll know for sure
0:23:38 > 0:23:41- # When the time comes
0:23:43 > 0:23:46- # I won't sleep
0:23:47 > 0:23:49- # Too soundly
0:23:51 > 0:23:53- # I'll hear
0:23:53 > 0:23:57- # Nant Ewyn stream singing
0:23:58 > 0:24:00- # Her solo
0:24:00 > 0:24:04- # To the Blaen Cwm waterfall
0:24:39 > 0:24:42- # The graveyard in Pennant Melangell
0:24:42 > 0:24:45- # Is a sonnet
0:24:46 > 0:24:51- # You can't put a sonnet on a map
0:24:54 > 0:24:58- # If you walk there
0:24:58 > 0:25:00- # My love
0:25:01 > 0:25:06- # Remember to take off your cap
0:25:09 > 0:25:10- # Remember
0:25:11 > 0:25:13- # To take off
0:25:14 > 0:25:16- # Your cap #
0:25:31 > 0:25:36- NANSI RICHARDS, - HARPIST OF MONTGOMERYSHIRE
0:25:39 > 0:25:45- Coming up, Sian tries to control men - who should know better...
0:25:45 > 0:25:47- ..I reveal our classical duet...
0:25:48 > 0:25:51- ..and a family duet - in a special location.
0:25:51 > 0:25:51- .
0:25:55 > 0:25:55- Subtitles
0:25:55 > 0:25:57- Subtitles- - Subtitles
0:26:00 > 0:26:04- Sian's home is - near the village of Llanerfyl.
0:26:04 > 0:26:10- We joined a group - of middle-aged men in a car park.
0:26:14 > 0:26:18- This wayward looking crowd - is Cut Lloi.
0:26:19 > 0:26:22- Only one woman - can keep them in check.
0:26:34 > 0:26:37- # I can see before me
0:26:38 > 0:26:40- # Beloved Wales
0:26:40 > 0:26:42- # My homeland #
0:26:43 > 0:26:46- We appreciate her talent.
0:26:46 > 0:26:51- She sings better than ever now.
0:26:53 > 0:26:56- We're so lucky she came home...
0:26:56 > 0:26:59- ..to share her talent.
0:27:00 > 0:27:04- She could have gone to London.
0:27:04 > 0:27:07- But she's here with us - in the Banwy Valley.
0:27:09 > 0:27:13- It was a miracle - that she took us on 12 years ago.
0:27:15 > 0:27:19- Would you say Sian is laid back?
0:27:19 > 0:27:23- She has to be, with us. - She wouldn't have lasted 12 years.
0:27:26 > 0:27:28- # Towards the cottage
0:27:29 > 0:27:32- # On the hill #
0:27:38 > 0:27:40- Second verse?
0:27:42 > 0:27:45- Not bad. - Have you heard that one before?
0:27:45 > 0:27:46- No.
0:27:46 > 0:27:48- No.- - Come and sing with the tenors.
0:27:49 > 0:27:53- They're good tenors.
0:27:53 > 0:27:55- Can I sit here?
0:27:55 > 0:27:57- Can I sit here?- - Give us a solo first!
0:27:58 > 0:28:01- An audition.
0:28:08 > 0:28:11- We'll do the first and last verse.
0:28:15 > 0:28:20- # I can see before me
0:28:20 > 0:28:23- # Beloved Wales
0:28:23 > 0:28:25- # My homeland
0:28:26 > 0:28:28- # Treasured place
0:28:28 > 0:28:31- # Where I was born
0:28:31 > 0:28:33- # Here's the parish church
0:28:34 > 0:28:36- # And my father's grave
0:28:37 > 0:28:42- # The river murmurs
0:28:42 > 0:28:44- # As it meanders
0:28:45 > 0:28:47- # To the lake
0:28:48 > 0:28:52- # I walk along its shores
0:28:53 > 0:28:55- # Towards the cottage
0:28:56 > 0:28:58- # On the hill
0:28:59 > 0:29:04- # I walk along its shores
0:29:05 > 0:29:09- # Towards the cottage
0:29:09 > 0:29:12- # Towards the cottage
0:29:13 > 0:29:17- # On the hill #
0:29:29 > 0:29:30- Can he join us?
0:29:30 > 0:29:31- Can he join us?- - Ten out of ten.
0:29:33 > 0:29:36- We meet every Wednesday at 8.00pm.
0:29:37 > 0:29:39- When do you start?
0:29:39 > 0:29:40- Nine.
0:29:44 > 0:29:46- Thanks for letting me sit in.
0:29:47 > 0:29:49- They are good lads.
0:29:49 > 0:29:52- Yes, great lads!
0:29:53 > 0:29:57- They're great, and a tonic.
0:29:57 > 0:29:59- And good voices.
0:29:59 > 0:30:01- And good voices.- - Yes.
0:30:03 > 0:30:08- Gwyn Erfyl described them - as the voices of the earth.
0:30:09 > 0:30:12- It's getting dark outside.
0:30:13 > 0:30:15- Pack up and go home for a cuppa.
0:30:16 > 0:30:19- We left Llanerfyl - and headed to the studio...
0:30:19 > 0:30:22- ..to work on a duet I chose.
0:30:22 > 0:30:27- # Ave
0:30:27 > 0:30:29- # Maria
0:30:30 > 0:30:32- # Ave #
0:30:33 > 0:30:36- When I heard it was - Caccini's Ave Maria...
0:30:36 > 0:30:41- ..I went on Spotify - to listen to various versions.
0:30:41 > 0:30:45- "OK!" I thought. Then I thought, - "No, It'll be great".
0:30:45 > 0:30:49- It's a lovely arrangement.
0:30:49 > 0:30:53- Singing with Rhys Meirion - is just fantastic!
0:30:54 > 0:30:58- # A
0:30:58 > 0:31:00- # A #
0:31:00 > 0:31:02- I forgot the "ve".
0:31:04 > 0:31:06- I only have to remember two words!
0:31:09 > 0:31:12- When I had singing lessons - in college...
0:31:12 > 0:31:18- ..I considered going on - to do classical music.
0:31:19 > 0:31:22- But I took the folk path.
0:31:23 > 0:31:27- It's a fantastic opportunity - to do something...
0:31:28 > 0:31:32- ..I have to be careful what I say...
0:31:34 > 0:31:38- ..to do something more classical.
0:31:41 > 0:31:46- Ave Maria was shaping up. - Gregynog Hall was the next stop.
0:31:46 > 0:31:51- Sian came here for Welsh Folk-Song - Society conferences...
0:31:51 > 0:31:54- ..to learn - and pass on the tradition.
0:31:54 > 0:31:58- # That's the house, and the barn #
0:31:58 > 0:32:02- We're here - for your solo performance, Y Glomen.
0:32:02 > 0:32:05- What is the story behind it?
0:32:05 > 0:32:10- I heard Mered singing Y Glomen - years ago...
0:32:10 > 0:32:15- ..in a folk song conference.
0:32:16 > 0:32:20- Mered and Phyllis - were an integral part of it.
0:32:20 > 0:32:22- I remember Mered singing it.
0:32:23 > 0:32:25- I was mesmerised.
0:32:25 > 0:32:27- # Above my head
0:32:28 > 0:32:30- # I heard a dove
0:32:31 > 0:32:34- # Singing sadly
0:32:35 > 0:32:37- # "Oh, what should I do?
0:32:38 > 0:32:41- # "Where is my beloved?" #
0:32:42 > 0:32:45- It's a wonderful melody.
0:32:45 > 0:32:48- I had never sung it.
0:32:48 > 0:32:53- This is an arrangement - for a harp and guitar.
0:32:53 > 0:32:57- I'm sure it's nice - to have Mabon playing with you.
0:32:57 > 0:32:59- Yes, it is.
0:32:59 > 0:33:04- Mabs and I have performed together - a number of times last year.
0:33:04 > 0:33:08- It's been so nice - to have him by my side.
0:33:08 > 0:33:11- The stage can be a lonely place.
0:33:11 > 0:33:13- Yes.
0:33:13 > 0:33:16- The electric guitar...
0:33:17 > 0:33:20- ..gives it a youthful feel.
0:33:21 > 0:33:22- Cool!
0:33:22 > 0:33:23- Yes!
0:33:27 > 0:33:29- You're in the library.
0:33:30 > 0:33:34- I'll ask you about your mother - while she isn't here.
0:33:35 > 0:33:37- Be positive, remember!
0:33:38 > 0:33:41- How would you describe her?
0:33:42 > 0:33:46- She's been my hero from the start.
0:33:46 > 0:33:51- She has influenced everything - I've ever done musically.
0:33:52 > 0:33:56- You're performing with her today...
0:33:56 > 0:33:59- ..and you've done gigs with her.
0:33:59 > 0:34:02- That must be an experience.
0:34:02 > 0:34:04- Yes. I love doing it.
0:34:05 > 0:34:07- I do get nervous.
0:34:08 > 0:34:11- She's been doing it for years.
0:34:11 > 0:34:14- I just strum the guitar.
0:34:15 > 0:34:18- You do more than that, - I've heard you!
0:34:22 > 0:34:27- The Dove
0:34:38 > 0:34:41- # One fine day
0:34:43 > 0:34:46- # While I was walking
0:34:49 > 0:34:51- # Near the woodlands
0:34:52 > 0:34:56- # At my leisure
0:34:58 > 0:35:01- # Above my head
0:35:01 > 0:35:05- # I heard a dove
0:35:08 > 0:35:10- # Singing sadly
0:35:11 > 0:35:14- # "Oh, what should I do?
0:35:16 > 0:35:21- # "Where is my beloved?"
0:35:34 > 0:35:37- # I took a step nearer
0:35:38 > 0:35:42- # So I could listen
0:35:45 > 0:35:47- # What was the song
0:35:48 > 0:35:51- # That she was singing?
0:35:53 > 0:35:57- # I took a step nearer
0:35:57 > 0:36:01- # And asked her
0:36:03 > 0:36:06- # "Pretty love
0:36:06 > 0:36:10- # "Gentlest of souls
0:36:11 > 0:36:15- # "What is the matter?"
0:36:30 > 0:36:32- # "A great sorrow
0:36:33 > 0:36:37- # "Fills my heart
0:36:39 > 0:36:41- # "Remembering the pain
0:36:45 > 0:36:47- # "And the hurt I felt
0:36:48 > 0:36:50- # "Remembering him
0:36:53 > 0:36:55- # "And his soothing words
0:36:57 > 0:37:01- # "My poor heart
0:37:02 > 0:37:06- # "Will never heal
0:37:09 > 0:37:14- # "It has broken in two"
0:37:16 > 0:37:18- # Oh
0:37:19 > 0:37:22- # Oh
0:37:25 > 0:37:28- # Oh
0:37:29 > 0:37:31- # Oh #
0:37:37 > 0:37:42- Coming up, Sian swaps the tranquil - countryside for the city.
0:37:43 > 0:37:47- What is her connection - to this place?
0:37:47 > 0:37:51- And we sing Caccini's Ave Maria.
0:37:51 > 0:37:51- .
0:37:55 > 0:37:55- Subtitles
0:37:55 > 0:37:57- Subtitles- - Subtitles
0:37:59 > 0:38:05- Sian and I visited Montgomeryshire - and Banwy Valley's hidden treasures.
0:38:05 > 0:38:10- The song "Distaw" - speaks of the calm after the storm.
0:38:10 > 0:38:14- It doesn't mean - her life is always calm.
0:38:14 > 0:38:19- I'm going to Cardiff to work - on the drama series, Byw Celwydd.
0:38:20 > 0:38:24- It's nice to go back to acting. - I haven't done it for many years.
0:38:25 > 0:38:29- I'm enjoying being involved - with that world, for a change.
0:38:30 > 0:38:33- # A bottomless pit
0:38:36 > 0:38:38- # I'm tired #
0:38:40 > 0:38:43- She is Elinor in Byw Celwydd.
0:38:43 > 0:38:47- The political drama - is based in Cardiff Bay.
0:38:51 > 0:38:54- This is familiar territory - for you.
0:38:54 > 0:38:58- Do you enjoy portraying - Elinor on Byw Celwydd?
0:38:58 > 0:39:02- Yes, I do enjoy playing - Elinor Llywelyn.
0:39:03 > 0:39:05- She puts up with a lot!
0:39:07 > 0:39:09- How could you?
0:39:11 > 0:39:15- And without an ounce of shame - or a hint of guilt.
0:39:15 > 0:39:17- How could you?
0:39:17 > 0:39:21- None of this would've happened - if you were there.
0:39:21 > 0:39:24- I remember now. - You're the Prime Minister.
0:39:25 > 0:39:29- It's nice to work on a TV drama. - It's been a privilege.
0:39:29 > 0:39:32- You've had good parts.
0:39:33 > 0:39:37- I told Elan and Erin, my daughters, - I was doing this with you.
0:39:37 > 0:39:41- I showed them your photo. - "She's the psycho!" they said.
0:39:44 > 0:39:49- You wouldn't believe how many - young people remember "Tylluan Wen".
0:39:49 > 0:39:52- It's in the curriculum.
0:39:54 > 0:39:58- People always joke about it. - "Don't throw your harp!"
0:40:01 > 0:40:03- Hey, come on!
0:40:05 > 0:40:07- You're mad.
0:40:10 > 0:40:15- # A
0:40:16 > 0:40:21- # Men
0:40:22 > 0:40:26- I'll need to take - a deep breath at the end.
0:40:27 > 0:40:29- Hey, great.
0:40:29 > 0:40:31- It's lovely.
0:40:31 > 0:40:35- This is my choice. - You took me out of my comfort zone.
0:40:35 > 0:40:39- I'll take you out of your comfort - zone! Don't change your voice.
0:40:40 > 0:40:42- Ave Maria is so exposed.
0:40:43 > 0:40:46- I have to be note perfect.
0:40:47 > 0:40:49- That was a challenge.
0:40:50 > 0:40:55- But then again, - I've had a singing lesson with Rhys.
0:40:56 > 0:40:58- Fantastic! It's brilliant!
0:41:00 > 0:41:05- When you sing "Ave"...
0:41:08 > 0:41:13- ..put the "v" on the D.
0:41:14 > 0:41:16- Ah, right.
0:41:17 > 0:41:19- # Ave #
0:41:19 > 0:41:21- It's a big jump.
0:41:23 > 0:41:24- # Ave #
0:41:26 > 0:41:28- We've had another good day.
0:41:29 > 0:41:33- The song came to me - while I listened to Sian's record.
0:41:33 > 0:41:36- It has turned out - exactly as I'd hoped.
0:41:37 > 0:41:39- She has a unique voice.
0:41:39 > 0:41:42- # Ave #
0:41:42 > 0:41:48- During rehearsals, I noticed - how much emotional energy...
0:41:48 > 0:41:50- ..Sian puts in every performance.
0:41:51 > 0:41:53- # Maria #
0:41:54 > 0:41:56- It's strange.
0:41:56 > 0:41:59- As a singer...
0:41:59 > 0:42:03- ..you want to open out - in the performance.
0:42:03 > 0:42:06- You want the emotions - in your singing.
0:42:07 > 0:42:09- There's a border.
0:42:10 > 0:42:13- Challenging things - that happen in life...
0:42:14 > 0:42:17- ..can go in the performance.
0:42:17 > 0:42:20- In a way, it can be positive.
0:42:20 > 0:42:22- It can also be challenging.
0:42:23 > 0:42:27- If I'm close to the edge, - emotionally...
0:42:28 > 0:42:31- ..where I really feel it...
0:42:32 > 0:42:36- ..I start to break down - and can't sing.
0:42:37 > 0:42:41- I can't do it physically.
0:42:41 > 0:42:45- Performing, singing and composing...
0:42:46 > 0:42:49- ..are all parts - of Sian's personality.
0:42:49 > 0:42:53- Despite the city's appeal, - it's obvious where her heart is.
0:42:53 > 0:42:57- I think I have - a contradictory personality.
0:42:57 > 0:42:59- I enjoy the city.
0:43:00 > 0:43:04- But I like going back - to Montgomeryshire...
0:43:04 > 0:43:07- ..to the peace and quiet.
0:43:07 > 0:43:10- Nain and Taid lived in Gardden...
0:43:10 > 0:43:12- ..where we now live.
0:43:12 > 0:43:15- After they retired...
0:43:16 > 0:43:19- ..they sat either side - of the Rayburn.
0:43:19 > 0:43:23- They kept the fire going - all year round.
0:43:23 > 0:43:26- There was a silence there.
0:43:26 > 0:43:28- They hardly spoke.
0:43:29 > 0:43:31- It was so tranquil.
0:43:31 > 0:43:35- When I came home from university...
0:43:35 > 0:43:39- ..I'd go straight - to see Nain and Taid.
0:43:39 > 0:43:42- Once I was through the gate...
0:43:42 > 0:43:45- ..everything fell into place.
0:43:45 > 0:43:48- Whatever else happened in my life...
0:43:48 > 0:43:53- ..being in Gardden - settled everything.
0:43:53 > 0:43:56- I remember that vividly.
0:43:57 > 0:43:59- It's still there, within me.
0:44:00 > 0:44:03- I'm lucky.
0:44:03 > 0:44:07- It was a pleasure - to have your company.
0:44:07 > 0:44:10- I've enjoyed every minute.
0:44:10 > 0:44:14- It was a privilege to sing with you. - Thank you.
0:44:14 > 0:44:16- Thank you, Rhys.
0:44:20 > 0:44:22- # Ave
0:44:27 > 0:44:31- # Maria
0:44:34 > 0:44:38- # Ave
0:44:40 > 0:44:43- # Maria
0:44:48 > 0:44:54- # Ave
0:44:54 > 0:45:00- # Ave
0:45:02 > 0:45:07- # Ave
0:45:08 > 0:45:14- # Maria
0:45:15 > 0:45:19- # Ave
0:45:20 > 0:45:22- # Maria
0:45:22 > 0:45:25- # Ave
0:45:26 > 0:45:31- # Ave
0:45:33 > 0:45:39- # Maria
0:45:40 > 0:45:43- # Ave
0:45:44 > 0:45:48- # Ave
0:45:49 > 0:45:51- # Ave
0:45:52 > 0:45:54- # Ave
0:45:55 > 0:45:57- # Ave
0:45:59 > 0:46:05- # Maria
0:46:28 > 0:46:32- # Ave
0:46:33 > 0:46:39- # Maria
0:46:40 > 0:46:43- # Ave
0:46:43 > 0:46:46- # Ave
0:46:47 > 0:46:53- # Maria
0:46:54 > 0:46:57- # Ave
0:46:59 > 0:47:01- # Ave
0:47:02 > 0:47:04- # Ave
0:47:04 > 0:47:07- # Ave
0:47:08 > 0:47:11- # Ave
0:47:11 > 0:47:17- # Maria
0:47:43 > 0:47:55- # Amen #
0:48:25 > 0:48:27- S4C Subtitles by Gwead
0:48:27 > 0:48:27- .