Elen Wyn

I was about to start my second year at the Royal Welsh College of Music and Drama on the Master of Voice Performance course, when I heard that I was awarded a grant from the James Pantyfedwen Foundation. My financial situation was a heavy burden at the time, so this support enabled me to continue my studies.

Developing a career for myself combining my passion for the Welsh language and singing has been a dream of mine since I was at school. I studied BA Welsh and Music at Bangor University, before moving to Cardiff to start this Masters' course. I had lost a lot of confidence after leaving school, and performing on stage didn't give me the same satisfaction as before; this course therefore was so important for me.

I have now completed my Masters in Cardiff - and singing on stages is once again a positive aspect of my life. This current year, I have sung at the Urdd Eisteddfod, I sang on the stage of the National Eisteddfod and won second prize in the Mezzo-soprano category, I have sung in concerts all over England and Wales and have more concerts and local eisteddfodau planned. With all the support in terms of voice technique and stage presence, I feel the confidence coming back. The last two years have been incredible - years full of worthwhile experiences and meeting people who enjoy being on stage like me. 

I now work as a full-time translator in Cardiff. Developing this skill, in conjunction with continuing to develop voice technique outside of working hours, enables me to work towards making my dream come true - enjoying the culture and language of Wales and being able to sing on the stages of Wales.

Sincere thanks to the Foundation for this support.