6 days ago
- Entertainment
- Western Telegraph
Llandissilio music teacher wins prestigious Eisteddfod medal
Eilyr Thomas, from Llandissilio, was awarded the Sir T.H. Parry-Williams Memorial Medal at this year's Wrexham National Eisteddfod for her outstanding contributions to her community.
The award, presented annually to individuals who make a significant impact in their local area, particularly through work with young people, recognises her decades of service.
Ms Thomas said: "When I found out, I was completely speechless – I couldn't think of any words at all.
"I'm not someone who wins competitions or anything like that, but this – I just couldn't believe it.
"Of course, it's an honour, and I'm very proud to accept it."
A teacher and headteacher in primary schools across Maenclochog and Mynachlog-ddu, Ms Thomas has also been deeply involved in music from an early age.
She achieved success as a soloist and as part of choirs in eisteddfodau large and small, and has inspired generations of young people to pursue singing.
Seven of her former pupils, now professional singers, took to the stage during the ceremony to pay tribute to their former teacher.
Ms Thomas said: "I was fine until I saw them come on stage.
"I wasn't expecting them.
"Some had said they weren't coming to the Eisteddfod but it was nice to see them and hear them sing."
Her influence extends beyond vocal training, helping young people become confident performers.
Ms Thomas said: "The family was musical, and I suppose I showed some kind of desire to sing, even though I was incredibly shy.
"Every time someone came to the house and asked me to sing, I'd go behind the curtains – I could never face them."
Her voluntary work in the community is also widely recognised.
She has served as conductor of Cantorion Cleddau and is an active member of Nebo Chapel in Efailwen.
She was honoured with the White Robe in Gorsedd Cymru and has previously served on the Eisteddfod Council.
The Sir T.H. Parry-Williams Memorial Medal commemorates the life and contributions of Sir T.H. Parry-Williams, a passionate supporter of the National Eisteddfod.
