South Yorkshire Times, August 18th 1933
The Eisteddfod
Thurnscoe Choral Conductor’s Impressions
“English Not Wanted”
Mr. E. A. Smith
South Yorkshire was represented last Thursday at the Welsh National Eisteddfod at Wrexham by Thurnscoe Male Voice Choir, conducted by Mr. E. A. Smith. Meeting the cream of Welsh and some of the finest English choirs, Thurnscoe were awarded sixth place in ten entries. The test pieces were: Elgar’s “Feasting I Watch,” ‘Yellow Cream.” and “Auld Lang Syne,” arranged by Caradoe Roberts, who was the adjudicator. His only criticism was regarding the choir’s tempo of the two folk-songs and he gave them ample praise on their balance, expression and interpretation. The choir was satisfied; their sole reason for entering the Eisteddfod was to gain experience. The choir were awarded a total of 206 marks—sufficient to win many a festival.
Asked this week by a “Times” representative for his impressions of the Eisteddfod. Mr. Smith said. “It is my opinion that English people are not wanted there. I can hardly explain why I have come to that conclusion. It is just that it struck me so. Before the Eisteddfod we had great difficulty in getting information. It is a Welsh festival and they want to keep it so. Yet the experience was wonderful and, if possible, we shall go again.”
The trip to Wrexham cost the choir £30, and this was raised by concerts and subscriptions. The choir was formed in 1924, and with the Wesleyan choir and the male voice quartet, Mr. Smith has brought over 50 first prizes into the village. The male voice choir alone has had eight first prizes at the Barnsley Festival, and last year won both classes. Mr. Smith is a native of Low valley, has lived in Thurnscoe since 1900 and is employed at Hickleton Main Colliery. He is hoping that the choir will be successful at Sheffield tomorrow (Saturday) and at Mexborough in October.