Alvin M. Keeling 
Bangor-based choir Encôr recently presented checks to two local charities, after raising £1,400 for Wales Air Ambulance and Gafael Llaw.
Led by Kiefer Jones, Encôr was created during the pandemic and was able to hold regular rehearsals and perform in public with a positive attitude, all in accordance with covid regulations.
Encôr’s goal is to create a welcoming environment and a safe place to sing together in order to improve well-being. Weekly rehearsals began outdoors at Nantporth Stadium, but regulations now allow indoor rehearsals at Berea Newydd Chapel on a Wednesday evening between 7 and 8 p.m., there is no audition and all are welcome.
On Wednesday February 9, Encôr welcomed the charities Gafael Llaw and Wales Air Ambulance to their rehearsal to receive a donation from their activities throughout the year.
Alwyn Jones received the donation on behalf of Wales Air Ambulance and Dave Evans and Carina Roberts represented Gafael Llaw. Both charities shared the value of every penny received, highlighting the excellent and essential work they do. The money raised by the choir was funded by Santander with thanks to the staff at the Bangor branch for their support.
This year, Encôr performed twice on Bangor’s Garth Pier and received a donation to charity from the Friends of Garth Bangor Pier. A singing workshop was held at Penrhyn Hall and a Christmas concert with local artists at Our Lady and St. James Church. The choir thanks Father Adrian Morrin and Rachel Harris for their hospitality at the church and their support during the Christmas concert.
Ruth Wyn Williams, member of the Encôr Choir, said: “We hope that 2022 will be full of opportunities to perform and socialize as a choir and to continue raising donations for local charities.
“Encôr has recently received a grant from the Loneliness and Social Isolation Fund 2021-2022 (Mantell Gwynedd / Gwynedd Council) which will help the choir to grow and invest in, for example, sound equipment, and to other activities to enjoy singing together for our physical and mental health. well-being.
“Kiefer Jones is the choirmaster and musical director who strives to achieve the highest possible musical standard by introducing a repertoire of ‘feel-good’ songs (Welsh and English) that uplift and stimulate the mood.
“However, thank you to all the choristers for their resilience, perseverance and concern for each other in following all reasonable measures to enable us to sing together.”
New members of the choir are welcome, but all must register before attending a rehearsal by emailing: encor.wyn@gmail.com
