Sounding Historic Houses in Wales
Last month, Sound Heritage researchers travelled to Bangor for a lively study day on music in Welsh country houses.
The study day on Musical Patronage and Performance in the Estates and Country Houses of Wales, c.1700-1900, was hosted by the Institute for the Study of Welsh Estates at Bangor University on 15 November. Dr Shaun Evans (Director, ISWE) and Dr Stephen Rees (Department of Music) welcomed researchers from the AHRC Music, Home and Heritage project, partners from the National Trust, and Welsh music specialists for a fascinating and productive day of collaboration and knowledge sharing. Presentations included an overview of the newly-catalogued music collection at Erddig (National Trust), evidence for music at coming-of-age celebrations on Welsh estates, and exploration of important musical sources that can be tied to Welsh country houses. The day closed with discussions of musical activities in Welsh country houses today - from the Gregynog Festival to new plans for interpreting Erddig in sound.