Welsh learners in Pembrokeshire were treated to a magical performance of folk music at Carew Castle and Tidal Mill recently when the Welsh folk duo from Swansea, DnA, came not only to perform but to provide inspiration to all adults who are learning Welsh.

Harpist Delyth Jenkins, a former Welsh learner herself, is now a Welsh tutor and her daughter, Angharad Jenkins, is a fiddle player, singer, composer and folk dancer – an eminent member of the folk band Calan who have performed in Pembrokeshire on many occasions. Their rapport and humour shows that mothers and daughters can make formidable partners! Their commentary on the sources of their music made for a memorable and moving experience for the Welsh learners who have discovered aspects of Welsh culture that were always there but seemed to them for so long to be shut behind a closed door.

Learner Lorraine Lloyd, a native of Goodwick who now lives in Narberth says, ‘”The location was inspired and the whole experience made me want to explore Welsh music more.”

The groundbreaking Welsh course they have been following is entitled Agor y Drws / Opening the Door and it is, aptly, another aspect of successful partnership. The Pembrokeshire Coast National Park Authority has generously supported the venture by providing access to three key locations in the county for these whole-day experiences. Carew Castle and Tidal Mill was the perfect setting for traditional music and it was heartening to see tourists joining the group and enjoying the concert.

Agor y Drws has been a pilot course made possible by an Innovation Grant from the National Centre for Learning Welsh and the good news just received is that a grant has been awarded for Agor y Drws 2 in the coming academic year. There will be partnerships once again – with the National Eisteddfod and with The Pembrokeshire Coast National Park Authority. That means more music, poetry, investigation and discussion for learners who have already travelled so far in their mastery of the Welsh language.

Councillor Cris Tomos, who addressed the group in one session, says, “I’m full of admiration for those who innovate and work together.” His subject, appropriately, was the value of co-operative ventures, and Agor y Drws has certainly been that. “Learners and tutors alike have been testing out new ground and it has proved fruitful for everyone. Onwards to the next stage!”