A WELSH language group has been busy travelling across Ceredigion developing music skills with a new ukulele orchestra and workshops for children and adults.

Since October, members of the Cerddorfa Iwcs a Hwyl Orchestra have met on a weekly basis at Aberystwyth Arts Centre, learning to play the ukulele under the leadership of one of Cered: Menter Iaith Ceredigion’s officers, Steffan Rees.

The orchestra played their first two gigs in early December at Aberystwyth Arts Centre and at the National Library of Wales.

Performing a selection of carols and Christmas songs in a fun, tongue-in-cheek fashion, the orchestra received a very positive response from the audience at both gigs which has led to further offers to play again in the spring.

Steffan Rees, Cered’s community development officer, said: “The orchestra is always looking for new members.

“No previous experience of playing the ukulele is required and there will be instruments available to borrow so that interested individuals can have a go at playing the ukulele before purchasing their own.

“Although Welsh is the main language of the orchestra a warm welcome is extended to all – whether learning Welsh or wishing to be immersed in a Welsh speaking environment.”

See this week’s south editions for the full story, in shops and online on Wednesday