Welsh pub sing-a-long ensures fans are in fine voice for big weekend of sport

Wales rugby and football fans will be able to brush up their knowledge of popular Welsh hymns and arias ahead of the big games on 12 November, thanks to a Welsh-language sing-a-long held at the Old Arcade pub in Cardiff’s city centre on Friday, 11 November.

Welsh love song Myfanwy, rousing hymn Calon Lân, and the Welsh national anthem, Hen Wlad fy Nhadau, will be among the famous songs performed at the free event, which kicks off at 8.30pm, and which is being organised by Cardiff University.

The sing-a-long is being led by Welsh tutor Rhys Griffiths, who also heads up Cardiff-based male voice choir Bechgyn Bro Taf. Rhys will provide English translations and tips on Welsh pronunciation. A free song sheet will also be provided.

For those inspired by the event to further their knowledge of Welsh, a five-week Welsh Taster Course will be held at the Old Library on The Hayes from Thursday, 17 November. Visit learnwelsh.cymru for more information or call 029 2087 4710.

Rhys, who works as a tutor for the School of Welsh at Cardiff University, which delivers Welsh courses across the capital on behalf of the National Centre for Learning Welsh, said: “During the Euros, Welsh fans made such an impact, singing their hearts out in stadiums across France, while rugby and music have a long, much-loved association. This pub sing-a-long will be an opportunity for fans to brush up their skills and get in the mood for what promises to be a fantastic weekend of sport.”

Professor Sioned Davies, Chair of Welsh and Head of Cardiff University’s School of Welsh, added: "We were all thrilled with Wales’ success at the Euros and with the way the team helped raise the profile of the Welsh language across Europe. We’re delighted to support fans with this event and look forward to hearing some fine singing at both matches.”

The Welsh rugby team will play Argentina at 5.30pm on Saturday 12 November at the Principality Stadium and the Welsh football team will play Serbia at 8.00pm at Cardiff City Stadium.