Conwy church musician recognised in New Years honours list

Chris Roberts, a long-serving church musician and community figure in Conwy, has been awarded the British Empire Medal (BEM) for services to young people, charity and music.

Chris, a former councillor and honorary Bailie of Conwy, began playing the organ at St Mary’s Church, Conwy, in the Diocese of Bangor, fifty years ago at the age of 14. He took over leadership of the church choir at the age of 21 and since then has played a central role in sustaining the church’s musical life, which includes a monthly Choral Evensong. He began organising lunchtime concerts at the church with soprano, Myfanwy Roberts, in 1981, and in 2005 founded the Conwy Classical Music Festival, which runs for a week each July and which features internationally known performers as well as supporting local musicians, particularly those at the start of their professional careers. 

He is also accompanist to Llanrwst-based mixed choir, Côr CantiLena. In his professional life he was Head of Music, first at Ysgol Aberconwy, Conwy, and then at Ysgol Dyffryn Conwy, Llanrwst.

In addition to his musical work, Chris serves as church warden for the Bro Celynnin Ministry Area, which includes St Mary’s Church.

Chris says, “I feel very humbled and privileged to have been awarded this honour. I’ve been overwhelmed by the response I’ve received. I very much enjoy directing the choir at St Mary’s and it has been an absolute pleasure to have been able to offer a platform at St Mary’s at lunchtime concerts and subsequently at the festival to so many young musicians at the start of their careers and to follow their successes on the professional stage. Many of them take time out of their busy professional lives to return to perform for us at the festival each July.’

Revd Kevin Ellis, Bro Celynnin Ministry Area, says, “Chris Roberts is a talented organist and dedicated director of music. He has been instrumental in establishing a renowned classical music festival in Conwy ensuring that the church is one of focal points of cultural life in the town.

“Much more than this, for me as the Ministry Area leader, is Chris's dedication to his faith, humility and prayerfulness. I am delighted for him, as is the town.”