Members of Côr y Penrhyn, one of Wales' oldest choirs, have taken their music to new heights during a unique performance at Penrhyn Quarry. The choir sang while travelling down a 100mph zip line at Zip World, in what is believed to be a world first.
The performance, captured on film by local videographer Ollie Axon, featured traditional songs and modern hits. Around 50 members took part, beginning their rendition on the truck journey to the top of the quarry before continuing mid-air.
A Century-Old Choir with Deep Roots
Based near Bethesda, the choir originally formed as a quarry choir in the 1880s. It disbanded during a period of industrial unrest before reforming in 1935. Today, it remains a vital part of the local community, with around 70 members aged between 15 and 85.
Many members have been involved for decades, including eight people who have sung with the choir for more than 50 years. Raymond Roberts, the eldest member at 85, gave a thumbs up at the end of the video, saying, "As the eldest member of the choir, at 85 years old, not bad, eh?"
A Bird's-Eye View for a Former Quarry Worker
Former quarry worker Elfyn Bullock, 51, who worked at the quarry for 10 years, also took part. He said: "It was fantastic to see a bird's-eye view of where I used to work. Coming down the zip line singing the songs was something I'll never forget. What an experience."
The stunt on the Velocity zip line marked a belated 91st anniversary celebration for the group. Owain Arwel Jones, musical director of Côr y Penrhyn, said: "We're always looking for new ways to share what we do and bring Welsh music to different audiences, but this was definitely something special for us."
Singing Above the Quarry's History
He added: "The choir has such a long history, and for many of our members this is a place that means a lot. To be able to sing here, where the choir first formed over a century ago, is something we'll remember for a long time."
Gwilym Owen, 84, who has been a member for 66 years, commented: "It's amazing to see how the choir has grown and changed over the years. From its early days connected to the quarry, to now singing above it, it's not something I ever imagined I'd see. It just shows how important the choir still is to the community."
A Long-Standing Partnership with Zip World
Zip World has had a close connection with the choir since they performed at the venue's opening in 2013. Founder Sean Taylor said: "Côr y Penrhyn has been part of our story since the very beginning, so it was brilliant to see this idea come to life. This was about celebrating the local community and shining a spotlight on a group that means a lot to the area."
The event not only showcased the choir's versatility but also highlighted the enduring bond between the group and its industrial heritage. With members aged from 15 to 85, the choir continues to bridge generations, keeping Welsh musical traditions alive in a spectacular and modern way.
