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Sain, Recording Label

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Hauling his Triple Harp Robin Huw Bowen CD launch, 'Y Ffordd i Aberystwyth' After 20 years of travelling the world with his triple harp in tow, harpist Robin Huw Bowen is marking the occasion with the launch of his new CD, 'Y Ffordd i Aberystwyth' (The Road to Aberystwyth) on the recording label Sain. It is difficult to contemplate the depth and intensity of feeling this remarkable man from Aberystwyth has for his work. He has sacrificed years of his life to ensure that Welsh Folk music, and the unique instrument he has mastered, the Welsh triple harp, are given the recognition and credit they fully deserve. Born in Liverpool in 1957, but deeply rooted in Anglesey, he was attracted to the harp through Breton harpist Alan Stivell's music, who taught him the importance of learning his music through his own heritage. During his period working at the National Library of Wales, Aberystwyth, his research skills were perfected, ensuring that he continues, to this day, to research thoroughly the Welsh folk songs before publishing and performing them. "A desk job amongst a Library's archives did not suit my restless nature," explains Robin, "but it is difficult to believe how far I have travelled since that time, and how fortunate I have been to see the world, perform in some amazing countries, and introduced the triple harp and Welsh folk music to large audiences!" explains Robin. During the last quarter of a century, Robin has relentlessly proclaimed the validity of Welsh folk music to the world through concerts, workshops, festivals plus TV and radio shows. He is frequently invited to lecture, teach and perform - evidence indeed that he is one of the main authorities on Welsh folk music. He has remained true to the tradition, and has succeeded in becoming a brilliant missionary for Wales. He is the only full time professional triple harpist known. "I decided that travelling was one true love, so off I went with a six foot Welsh Triple harp in tow! I have travelled many continents, including North America, Australia, Asia and Europe, and each country has something different to offer a performer. I have also been a member of folk groups including Mabsant and Cusan Tân, and I continue to be a member of Rhes Ganol and Crasdant, and Crasdant will be joining me on stage to launch my new CD at Aberystwyth's Arts Centre on the 9 of June" said Robin. Although Robin's repertoire is a reflection of the triple harp during its heyday, his playing and interpretation of the music not only continues the unbroken tradition, but also develops it further. The CD 'Y Ffordd i Aberystwyth' combines a playful vivaciousness with the simplicity of sound, and offers an inspiring insight to the best folk music, with tunes like Helfa'r Draenog (The Hedgehog Hunt), Waltsiau Sipsi (Gipsy Waltzes) and Pibddawnsiau Fflash (Flash Hornpipes): "I'm sure you will forgive me for being a little self-indulgent with some things in this CD! I have taken the very personal step of dedicating not just the album itself, but each individual track to various people who have, for different reasons, played a part along the way," explains Robin. During the short time Robin has been home, he has been honoured for his tireless work. In the Machynlleth Festival in 2000, Robin was awarded the Glyndwr Medal for 'an outstanding contribution to the arts in Wales'. Then in 2002 he won a BAFTA (Cymru) for his original score for the S4C film Eldra and in 2004 he was honoured with the order of 'Druid' (the Gorsedd White Robes) at the Newport National Eisteddfod.

CD launch

Robin will launch his CD 'Y Ffordd i Aberystwyth' in a special Concert at The Arts Centre, Aberystwyth, on Saturday, 9 of June at 7:30pm, where Crasdant will also perform. For further information or to book tickets contact Sain on 01286 831111 Note: Article also availabe in Welsh and photos availabe to accompany the story!

Ffion Clwyd Edwards, May 16, 2007 1:41 PM

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