During the lead up to the National Eisteddfod, Abergavenny and district have played host to many varied and talented performers, all keen to lend support to the cause and flag up the historic significance of the festival as it returns to Abergavenny after some 103 years.

The forthcoming Gwent Chamber Orchestra’s concert promises to be yet another jewel in the crown of fundraising activities planned by the local Eisteddfod committee (at the Chapel in Market Street on Saturday, 23 July at 7.30pm).

The orchestra has strong associations with our area, having been formed in 1975 by David Gedge, then organist and choirmaster of Brecon Cathedral, with John Roberts as leader.

They were based for many years at Ebbw Vale and provided the essential players for concerts in Brecon Cathedral and Monmouthshire-based choirs.

Their exciting programme, which includes Bach’s Violin Concerto, Telemann’s Don Quichotte Suite, a Concerto Grosso by Handel and Mozart’s Eine kleine Nachtmusik, will show off their expertise to the full.

This polished ensemble will, no doubt, be ably assisted by the intimate acoustic of the Chapel, which has proved to be a top venue for concert-goers in recent months.

“The orchestra are proud to support the veritable feast of music-making that will be such a feature of the Eisteddfod during the first week of August in Abergavenny” said concert organiser Angela Marshall.

Their concert will have an added poignancy, due to the recent passing of their founder, David Gedge - a legend in his own right.

“He did so much for music-making in Wales and it is highly appropriate that his orchestra will be supporting the nation’s cultural event at this time,” she added.

Seating is limited in the Chapel and early booking is advised.

Tickets are available at the Chapel (01873 736430), the Art Shop (01873 852690) and Abergavenny Music (01873 853394).