About the Eisteddfod
“The only surprising thing about miracles, however small, is that they happen”
Dylan Thomas, Quite Early One Morning
The miracles Dylan Thomas speaks about have been a regular feature of Llangollen summers since 1947. The beautiful Welsh town has for 60 years hosted the world at the Llangollen International Musical Eisteddfod. Each July, between 2000 and 5000 competitors and as many as 50,000 visitors have been eager to witness the dazzling spectacle and experience the magic of Llangollen.
For one week in July each year, the small Welsh town is descended upon by the world. During the day, International musicians and dancers compete in over 20 high quality competitions. Each evening the best and most colourful competitors share the stage in renowned concerts given by professional artists, many of whom started their careers in Llangollen.
Placido Domingo acknowledges that his first professional experience in the United Kingdon was at the 1968 International Eisteddfod, and in 1955 Luciano Pavarotti competed with his father in the male voice choir competition with others from their home town of Modena. The choir won their section, and Pavarotti returned for a spectacular concert in 1995. Kiri Te Kanawa, Lesley Garrett, Bryn Terfel, Dennis O’Neil, James Galway and Montserrat Caballe are among the musical stars that have appeared in the final Sunday Evening Gala Concert.