Global music icon Jools Holland and internationally acclaimed opera stars Sir Bryn Terfel, Natalya Romaniw and Noah Stewart will headline two spectacular concerts as part of the Llangollen International Musical Eisteddfod’s landmark 80th anniversary celebrations in 2027.
The first event to be unveiled for the milestone year is Llangollen 80: Jools Holland and his Rhythm & Blues Orchestra, taking place at the iconic Llangollen Pavilion on Thursday July 8. Joining Jools on the night will be acclaimed vocalists Ruby Turner, Louise Marshall and Sumudu Jayatilaka.
The anniversary programme will also feature the Llangollen 80: Anniversary Gala Concert on Saturday July 10, starring Sir Bryn Terfel, Natalya Romaniw and Noah Stewart alongside the Llangollen International Orchestra and massed male voice choirs in a spectacular celebration of the festival’s rich musical heritage and international legacy.
These concerts mark the first major programme announcement for the Eisteddfod’s 80th anniversary, with further events set to be revealed in the coming months.
Musician, bandleader, broadcaster and pianist Jools Holland is one of Britain’s most celebrated performers. From his early success with Squeeze to his long-running BBC series Later… with Jools Holland, his remarkable career has spanned more than four decades.
Joined by acclaimed vocalists Ruby Turner, Louise Marshall and Sumudu Jayatilaka, plus special guests still to be announced. Jools and his Rhythm & Blues Orchestra will bring their renowned blend of rhythm & blues, boogie-woogie, jazz and rock ‘n’ roll to Llangollen for an unforgettable evening of musicianship, energy and timeless classics.
His return carries particular significance as a long-standing supporter and Vice-President of the Eisteddfod, having performed to thousands of festival-goers at Llangollen over the years.
The Llangollen 80: Anniversary Gala Concert will celebrate eight decades of music, friendship and international understanding with one of the most ambitious productions ever staged as part of the festival.
Three of the world’s finest opera stars — Sir Bryn Terfel, Natalya Romaniw and Noah Stewart — will perform alongside the Llangollen International Orchestra and massed male voice choirs in a spectacular showcase of Welsh and international musical excellence. The specially curated programme will feature operatic favourites, great choral works and unique collaborations, reflecting both the remarkable history of the Eisteddfod and its continuing place on the world stage.
Together, the two concerts form part of a special programme marking the Eisteddfod’s 80th anniversary and celebrating its enduring legacy of bringing people together from around the world through music, culture and friendship.
John Gambles, Chairman of the Llangollen International Musical Eisteddfod, said: “Our 80th anniversary is a once-in-a-generation opportunity to celebrate everything that makes Llangollen so special, and these two concerts perfectly reflect both our heritage and our future.
“These will be two truly special world-class events that will launch our anniversary celebrations in spectacular style, and we’re delighted to welcome such outstanding artists to Llangollen as we celebrate 80 remarkable years.”
Artistic Director of the Llangollen International Musical Eisteddfod Dave Danford added: “Jools Holland has a wonderful connection with Llangollen and always creates an incredible atmosphere, while our Anniversary Gala Concert brings together some of the finest voices in opera alongside the proud Welsh choral tradition that has always been at the heart of our festival.
“We’re also thrilled to welcome back Sir Bryn Terfel, whose unforgettable celebration of sea songs and Welsh heritage was one of the highlights of last year’s Eisteddfod. As one of Wales’ greatest musical ambassadors and a longstanding friend of Llangollen, his return makes this anniversary year even more special.”
Fans can secure their tickets now by signing up to the pre-sale which goes live at 10am on Wednesday July 29.
Friends of the Eisteddfod can purchase tickets from 10am on Tuesday July 28 and all tickets go on general sale at 10am on Friday 31. All tickets are via llangollen.net
