We are delighted to announce that Abbey Cwmhir Heritage Trust’s Open Afternoon on 16th May will feature a musical performance by Saffyre ‘Hints of Wales. Saffyre was formed in early summer 2025 after Diana and Helen met to play chamber music and it was clear that they had a similar approach to the expression of the dots! Both classically trained, but also skilled in other genres such as jazz, blues, folk etc.., their programmes reflect their eclectic skills and are full of surprises and unusual elements!
Their first gig as background music came only three months into the partnership and as a result of this performance came the first Concert entitled ‘The Elements’. It was a resounding success and a Christmas Concert entitled ‘A Christmas Treasure Trove’ followed. More recently Saffyre have performed for a Valentine’s Sushi event.
Helen Wilding B.Ed Hons, LGSM, Dip. SH. is a classically trained violinist, pianist and viola player who has extensive experience in all genres. She was principal violinist in various orchestras and ensembles in Gloucestershire in the ’80s and ’90s, and has performed with folk and jazz bands as well as recording as a session musician. Helen is currently a member of jazz trio Hot Club Collective, violin and guitar duo Vegan Vampires, Midlands based The Film Orchestra and medieval trio Fleurs de Lys.
Diana Poole ALCM, LLCM(TD) is a classically trained cellist and self-taught wind instrument player. Her past musical experience includes performing as a Wandering Minstrel and Character Musician at Warwick Castle and a member of Oxfordshire-based folk group Magpie Lane. Diana is currently a ceilidh caller with her own band Longdogs & local band Sir Dancelot. She is also a member of The Film Orchestra.
Saffyre can be found on facebook here.
We are very fortunate that Saffyre’s performance will be held at St Mary’s Church, Abbeycwmhir, LD1 6PH at 2pm. St Mary’s Church, built in 1865-6 in the French Gothic style, was designed by Poundley & Walker, well known local architects, and displays stained glass windows of regional and national importance by R.T. Bayne and Clayton & Bell. We feel sure that the church will provide an evocative setting for Saffyre’s music.
After the performance there will be light refreshments in the nearby Philips Hall, Abbeycwmhir. Parking and toilet facilities will be available throughout the afternoon at Philips Hall.
At 4pm we will hold a short AGM. Whilst voting will be restricted to members, all are welcome to stay for this, as we will briefly showcase our previous years activities and describe our forward programme.
In order to manage the seating capacity in the church and catering, we would be grateful if you would book your attendance at Saffyre’s performance through Eventbrite.
Important information:
Parking:Limited disabled parking spaces will be available directly outside the church. There is no charge, but it needs to be booked in advance and will be on a first-come, first-served basis by emailing cwmhirabbey@gmail.com. There is also room to drop off passengers outside the church and then park at Philips Hall.
All other parking will be available at the Philips Hall, which is a short walk to the church.
Facilities:There are no toilets in the church, but the Philips Village Hall will be open for you before the recital
Church:Even if it is a warm day, the church could be cold, so ensure you wrap up warm.