I was absolutely delighted when I was asked to write and record a new aria for a collectively-composed Twitter opera a few weeks ago!
My partner for the project, soprano Mari Wyn Williams, suggested basing the aria on the story of Branwen. She is a major character in the ‘Mabinogi’, the earliest prose stories in the literature of Britain. Originally written in Middle Welsh, Branwen is married to Matholwch, King of Ireland, as an offering – but the marriage does not bring peace..!
My aria is the first of ten due to be completed. Due to the coronavirus pandemic, I still haven’t met Mari in person and this recording was created entirely online!
There are some fabulous operas emerging from 30+ composers, based around the world. Do have a listen on Twitter: #SetOperaFree
Ashley Valentine 