A Fond Farewell
The recent MOCSA concert was a successful event with both the Choir and MOCSA Young Welsh Singer finalist
s in good form. It was an occasion tinged with sadness however as it was to be the final concert for our long standing organist Leslie Ryan. Les had previously announced that he would be retiring from the role and that the MOCSA concert would be his final appearance.
Leslie Ryan's association with The Morriston Orpheus Choir began when he moved to Swansea in 1970. He was appointed the Choir’s official organist at the age of 23, under the then Musical Director Lyn Harry. During that period he was Organist on four recordings: Cartref (1972), On Route (1973), Llef (1973), The Heart of Wales (1975).
In 1975, Les became the Musical Director of the Orpheus, following Lyn Harry's decision to emigrate, and his first engagement was to conduct the Choir at the Royal Albert Hall, London.
He was also tasked, as Musical Director, with preparing the Choir for its ground breaking LP "A Grand Night for Singing",which also featured the Band of HM Royal Marines. The record included 48 pieces and Les had only 6 weeks to get the Choir ready. His skillful adaptation of arrangements plus three rehearsals a week however resulted in the Choir and Band producing an album that is still in demand all over the world today.
Between 1975 and 1979, Les was Musical Director for the following recordings in addition to A Grand Night for Singing; Sing we Merrily (1977), Berlin Tattoo (1977), Golden and New (1978), and The very best of Gilbert and Sullivan (1978).
During this period Les was also influential in his support for the formation and establishment of the MOCSA Young Welsh Singer or the Year Competition and it is fitting that Les choose our 44th Annual MOCSA Concert in 2019 to make his final appearance with the Choir.
In 1979 Les relinquished his post as Musical Director to concentrate on his professional teaching career. He returned in 2006, when he accepted our invitation to become Organist once more.
Aside from being our organist Les also works quietly "behind the scenes" and the full extent of his contribution to the Choir extends way beyond that role. In 2009, in recognition of his contribution and commitment to the Choir, Les was awarded Life Membership.
On the occasion of his retirement the Choir was delighted to publicly acknowledge Les’ contribution with Choir Chairman Kevin Williamson presenting Les with a gift, at the MOCSA concert, on behalf of all involved with the Morriston Orpheus: A small token of the Choir’s appreciation for Les’ contribution over many years and a heartfelt thanks for everything he has done for The Morriston Orpheus Choir.
In wishing Les a very happy retirement the Choir thank him sincerely for his help, dedication, and support covering numerous aspects of Choir activity. He will certainly be missed.
