Sioned James (1974 – 2016)

It was with great sadness that we heard recently of the death of one of our alumnae, the choral conductor Sioned James at age 41.

Sioned came to the School of Welsh as a student in 1994 and graduated with a first Class Honours degree in 1997. She was a fun and dynamic character, always happy to chat. She possessed a keen intelligence and an obvious gift for music. Her ambition was to make a far-reaching contribution to Wales’ musical and cultural landscapes, and to the world of choral music in particular.

Sioned was a member of many choirs before coming to the University, and after she graduated she established a mixed Welsh choir, Côrdydd in the capital in 2000. Over the years many members of staff and students from the School have been members of the choir, which grew to be one of the most successful in Wales, achieving success in Wales and beyond.

As well as conducting Côrdydd, Sioned was also active in the Welsh choral scene, conducting the Mochyn Du Choir in Cardiff for many years. She was also very supportive and keen to offer advice to other conductors, especially the Aelwyd Waun Ddyfal choir, established by alumni of the School of Welsh; it still has strong links with the School today.

The School would like to extend its deepest sympathy to Sioned’s family at this difficult time.