Lleuwen Steffan

From the lost traditional hymns to electronic renditions of 19th century “hwyl” sermons, Tafod Arian is a celebration of the roots of Welsh sacred music. What is “plygain” and “pwnc”? Let us explain through the medium of sound and music. Experience the enchanting Tafod Arian band tour, a visionary collaboration between Welsh musician Lleuwen Steffan and the National Eisteddfod of Wales. Delve with us into the depths of St Fagan’s Museum Sound archives as well as hymns picked up and recorded by Lleuwen in her tour of 50 chapels in 2024. Tafod Arian has embarked on a journey celebrating Wales’s illustrious musical heritage, where lost treasures have lovingly been revived and reintroduced publicly. Through Tafod Arian, we pay homage to the voices of the past, infusing their timeless melodies with contemporary arrangements alongside heartfelt interpretations. Though the original voices may have faded, their spirit lives on through Tafod Arian. Collaborating with archive descendants, Lleuwen masterfully combines electronic and acoustic instrumentation, seamlessly blending the past with the present. With translations and insights, the tour breathes new life into archive recordings, ensuring these cherished sacred songs rightfully claim their place in the spotlight today. At Llais, witness the evolution of Tafod Arian, from solo into a captivating band production. Lleuwen takes the stage alongside a dynamic quintet of international musicians, including the talents of Sioned Webb and Gethin Elis from Wales, and Nolwenn Korbell and Brieg Guerveno from Brittany. Together, they elevate the performance, infusing it with depth and richness. Join us on this extraordinary voyage as we celebrate the transformative power of artistic expression. Let Tafod Arian transport you through time, bridging the gap between past and present, and immersing you in the timeless beauty of Welsh sacred music.