21 April 2021

The heart-warming programme Canu Gyda Fy Arwr (Singing with my Hero) is back for another series and gives individuals or, for the first time this year, groups, another chance to take part in a totally unique experience and sing with their own musical hero.

The first series, broadcasted on S4C in January 2021, featured Elin Fflur, Shân Cothi and Dafydd Iwan who sang with individuals from all walks of life with some nominating themselves and others nominated by friends or family as a complete surprise!

Some of the lucky individuals who took part last time included an NHS worker, Parc y Scarlets caretaker, a six-year-old pupil who loves singing, a local character celebrating her 95th birthday and many more.

The top tenor Rhys Meirion, who presents the show, is now looking for new music-loving dreamers to take part in some more dazzling duets ready for the next series.

And this year, it's not just individuals who can have this once in a lifetime opportunity. A family, a group of friends, members of the same choir or society can take part!

Rhys has seen the potential the series has to change lives.

"I've been fortunate enough to sing with some of my heroes throughout my career – not only on stage but on screen as well in the series Deuawdau Rhys Meirion. Experiences like these really can change your life for the better.

"Wales is known as the land of song and we want to be able to bring more of its hidden songsmiths out into the open, shine a light on their talents and get them singing with their musical heroes and heroines.

"We want to hear from as many people as possible, for them to tell us about their musical hopes and dreams. And once again, there is virtually no limit on who can apply. We're looking for people aged from 10 to 110, and the show can cover pretty much any music genre from pop to classical, rock to reggae, jazz, soul, folk, anything!"

"Take a chance and apply – you have everything to gain and nothing to lose. You've already seen the amazing and unforgettable experiences people in the first series had – so go for it!"

One of these was Catrin, a physiotherapist at Ysbyty Glan Clwyd who went to work in the Intensive Care Unit during the Covid-19 pandemic. Catrin has always enjoyed performing and was very encouraged by the experience of singing with her musical heroine, Elin Fflur:

"Singing with Elin was unforgettable - and singing the song Enfys was something special because it's very relevant and comes from the heart. And doing this outside the hospital in front of my friends and family was amazing.

"I definitely had more confidence to sing after doing the programme. And even behind the camera, Elin was extremely supportive. Having someone of that calibre who is happy to sing with me and enjoyed singing with me really helped my confidence."

And what would Catrin's advice be if someone was thinking of applying to be on the programme?

"Definitely, do it! The experience you get out of this programme is something you would never get anywhere else."

Another lucky one who was chosen to take part was Brynle Griffiths, a builder from Abergele, who sang with his heroine, Shân Cothi:

"For me, it was quite personal. I wanted to gain a bit of confidence back to sing solos and it was just the thing to give me the kick I needed to get me on my feet and do it again.

"I would advise anyone to do the same, to sing with their hero or heroine. It's something to cherish for the rest of your life. I've had the privilege and pleasure of singing with one of the world's best sopranos! I had a great time."

Singing with Shân with his family cheering him on was a very special experience for Brynle:

"She was so friendly and kind. And singing with her...we've all seen her on the television and heard her on the radio but standing two yards from her and hearing her singing with that most wonderful voice...well, that was very special."

So, if you're dreaming of singing with a special hero or heroine, or want to nominate a friend, family member or group that deserves this unforgettable experience, contact Cwmni Da TV production company in Caernarfon, by Wednesday, 30 June 2021.

To apply, fill in the application form and send a short video clip to Cwmni Da. And for more information, contact canu@cwmnida.tv or 07483904452.