MAGICAL madrigal memories will long remain after Pembroke and District Male Voice choristers hosted a youth choir from the United States.

At Pembroke Town Hall on Monday, April 7, the wonderful voices and musical talents of the 50-strong Mountain View High School Madrigals from California - aged from 14 to 18 - delighted with close harmonies from their extensive repertoire, all unaccompanied.

In tribute to their visit, the young choristers had learned - pronunciation perfect - the Welsh favourite ‘Myfanwy’ and joined with their hosts to sing ‘Calon Lan’.

And in return the hosts, conducted by Musical Director Juliet Rossiter, sang three pieces - ‘African Prayer’, ‘World in Union’ and, appropriately, Elvis Presley’s ‘American Trilogy’. Rev William Lambert was accompanist and the MC Matthew John.

Town Crier Gareth Jones’ commanding tones had welcomed the Madrigals and the Mayor of Pembroke, Councillor Ann Mortensen, presented a town crest to the visiting musical director, Jill Kenny. In turn, choir chairman Huw Morgan presented a choir plaque, remarking that in the 72-year history this was believed to be the first time they had staged with an American choir.

That morning the American youngsters had toured Pembroke Castle and later travelled to St Davids where they sang in the Cathedral. Their two nights in Pembrokeshire were spent at a hotel in Tenby.

Thanks are extended to Choir Secretary Dave Powell and Gareth Morgan, along with the Town Hall staff, for the excellent arrangements.