King and Queen visit Brecon Cathedral to celebrate its centenary

The King and Queen paid a special visit to Brecon Cathedral this morning to mark its centenary as the mother church of the diocese.

Their Majesties - on their first official engagement in Wales since the coronation in May - were greeted by pupils of Priory Church in Wales Primary School before meeting members of the community who are involved in the life of cathedral, including The Fathom Trust and Brecon Mind.

They also met the project managers and architect who are leading the cathedral’s National Heritage Lottery-funded repair, reordering and improved interpretation and accessibility for all.

Today also marks the opening of the Brecon Choir Festival and Their Majesties heard a short programme of music by performers from the festival, including the winner of the Young Singer Award singing the Benedictus from Rod Paton’s Ascension Jazzmass.

The four-day festival showcases some of Wales’ most established and upcoming talent, run by a team of volunteers passionate about Welsh choir and choral singing.

The festival’s Punch Maughan said: “Brecon Choir Festival is delighted that the winner of their inaugural Young Singer Award, Erin Thomas, had the opportunity to sing the Benedictus as a solo for the Thursday morning performance at the cathedral.

“The Benedictus is part of the Ascension Jazzmass which is the opening concert for Brecon Choir Festival 2023 on Thursday evening.

“The Jazzmass was composed and conducted by Brecon resident Rod Paton. Erin will sing again at the cathedral on Saturday night as part of the sold-out Treorchy Male Choir concert.”