Welsh vicar celebrates musical mission at Canterbury Cathedral

A Welsh vicar, who has inspired thousands of people in his parish to take up music, will be bringing his congregation to Canterbury next month for a concert of celebration in the company of two archbishops.

Father Paul Bigmore, from the Rhondda Valley, launched Music in the Community 10 years ago in order to revive the once legendary musical heritage in his parish. He has organised concerts, recitals, master-classes and competitions to engage, entertain and educate local people.

Now the scheme is celebrating its birthday at the great Christian shrine of Canterbury Cathedral with a concert displaying young talent. It will be attended by the Archbishop of Canterbury, Dr Rowan Williams and the Archbishop of Wales, Dr Barry Morgan.

During the concert, Dr Morgan will launch a hymn book, written and composed by Father Paul and illustrated by local schoolchildren. The Songs of the Pilgrim book is a Music in the Community initiative and will be distributed to congregations all over the world.

Taking part in the concert, on September 13, are the National Youth Choir for Wales, the National Youth Symphonic Brass Wales, choristers of Canterbury Cathedral, Nicola Hughes, soprano and the choir from a Welsh primary school, Ysgol Gynradd Gymraeg Llwyncelyn.

Father Paul said he was thrilled to be able to bring Cymru to Canterbury.

"Music in the Community has made a positive difference to peoples' lives in the last 10 years," he said. "It involves people of all ages and abilities and addresses the needs of those who are socially excluded.

"It is a positive scheme for communities as it strengthens their cultural and linguistic identities and enables them to experience performances of all music.

"I am so proud to be accompanying people from the Rhondda to the concert in Canterbury and remain very grateful to those who have supported us in organising the concert and also the ongoing Music in the Community initiatives."

The Archbishop of Wales, Dr Barry Morgan, said, "This concert celebrates the success of the first decade of a community project that has continued to bring music into the centre of local life and culture.

"The South Wales Valleys have a rich tradition of music making, much of it fostered and inspired by the churches and chapels that have been the focus of community life for generations.

"The Christian life is often described as a journey where we travel in heart and mind, towards a deeper knowledge of the God who draws us to Himself. It is therefore appropriate in our journey to this great Christian Shrine, to have brought with us something of our culture to celebrate and offer, in thanksgiving and praise."

Tickets for the concert on Saturday September 13 cost £12 and £10 and can be booked via Canterbury Tourist Information Centre on 01227 378100.