Welsh Choir of Southern California

Côr Cymraeg De Califfornia was formed in September 1997. The first Welsh concert choir based in Southern California, Côr Cymraeg is a non-denominational choir of men and women from across the Southland. Within a year of its inception, it tripled in size, growing into one of the largest Welsh choirs in the United States rehearsing on a weekly basis. We are striving to become one of the finest Welsh choirs in the world.

The Choir’s repertoire is one hundred percent Welsh, with approximately two-thirds sung in the Welsh language and one-third in English. it draws from the entire spectrum of Welsh music, both in secular and sacred, traditional and modern. Welsh folk song, which ranges in mood from brooding to merry, is virtually unknown to audiences outside Wales. Magnificent Welsh hymns rival those of Germany and England in grandeur, yet only a handful are known worldwide. This Celtic tradition of musical composers, hymn writers, and poets is still very much alive, and the Welsh Choir is devoted to showcasing these modern works as well as traditional folk songs and hymns. The Choir also brings outstanding young prizewinning singers and harpists from Wales to perform with it in California. The Choir’s repertoire, which is one hundred percent Welsh, is drawn from every musical dimension and style - secular and sacred, traditional and contemporary, folkmusic and orchestral standards

As befits a multicultural community such as Southern California, the Welsh Choir has always been a multi-ethnic choir, drawing its members from a wide variety of ethnic backgrounds. About ten percent of the choristers are Welsh-born, and most of the rest of us are Americans of Welsh, Irish, Scottish, and Cornish ancestry. All are attracted to the Choir by three common interests:

• A Love of singing.
• A Love of Welsh music.
• The challenge of pronouncing the Welsh language, especially the nearly unsingable double-L (which is a fiendish sound!)

Fortunately, language assistance is provided. We practice every Sunday afternoon. We are a warm, creative, and dedicated family, and new members are welcome to join throughout the year.

Mae Croeso I Bawb! - All Are Welcome!

The gymanfa ganu (guh-MAHN-vuh GAH-nee) is a Welsh tradition, a “gathering to sing hymns,” and many Welsh people are so steeped in their musical heritage that they can readily sing hymns in four-part harmony. In keeping with that tradition, from time to time the Choir invites you, the audience, to sing along with us. Watch the conductor, please, for he will be directing you, too!

the Welsh Choir of Southern California is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit public benefit corporation. Its concerts and inclusion of guest artists from Wales are made possible by your generous contributions.

Diolch yn fawr! - Thank You Very Much!

Our Mission Statement

For a thousand years, the community tradition of singing in parts has sustained, inspired and united the people of Wales in good times and in times of hardship and uncertainty.

The Welsh Choir of Southern California believes in the power of music to restore our faith in life, in ourselves, and in each other.

Through concerts and recordings of sacred and secular words by Welsh poets and musicians, we seek to strengthen the human spirit and bring joy to audiences not only in Southern California, but around the world.