story from nation.cymru
A top composer is following in the footsteps of his lifelong hero to take the reins of a globally renowned Welsh music festival.
Paul Mealor, who was born in St Asaph and raised in Connah’s Quay, has been appointed as the new Artistic Director of the North Wales International Music Festival which was established by his mentor, Professor William Mathias.
He will be taking over from the acclaimed mezzo soprano, Ann Atkinson, who is stepping down after 20 successful years at the helm.
One of Paul’s big ambitions is for the festival to become a multi-arts hub with a ‘fringe’ running alongside the main concerts.
William Mathias, who was Professor of Music at Bangor University, was a Welsh cultural icon who began playing the piano aged three and composing music aged five, becoming an eminent composer of choral works and opera.
He founded the festival at St Asaph Cathedral in 1972 and directed it until his death, aged 57, in 1992. Such was his love of the festival that he’s buried in the cathedral’s cemetery.
As a student Paul studied with William Mathias and cites him as being the person who inspired his career in music and particularly his love of large scale choral compositions.
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