Role

:

Ensemble

Genre

:

Choral

 

Only Men Aloud is a Welsh classical music group that was formed in 2000. The group is known for its unique blend of classical, pop, and traditional Welsh music. Only Men Aloud has become one of the most popular classical music groups in the United Kingdom, and has won numerous awards for its performances. The group was founded by Tim Rhys-Evans, a Welsh conductor and singer. Rhys-Evans had previously worked with the Welsh National Opera and the BBC National Orchestra of Wales. He wanted to create a male choir that would showcase the rich musical heritage of Wales, while also incorporating contemporary music. Rhys-Evans held auditions for the choir in 2000, and selected 18 singers from across Wales. The group's name, Only Men Aloud, was inspired by a sign that Rhys-Evans saw in a Welsh pub. The sign read "Ladies only, men aloud", and Rhys-Evans thought it would be a fitting name for a male choir. Only Men Aloud began performing in local concerts and festivals in Wales, and quickly gained a following. In 2005, the group won the BBC's Last Choir Standing competition, which brought them national attention. The competition was a televised singing contest that featured amateur choirs from across the United Kingdom. Only Men Aloud impressed the judges with their unique blend of classical and pop music, and their energetic performances. Following their win on Last Choir Standing, Only Men Aloud signed a record deal with Universal Music. Their debut album, also titled Only Men Aloud, was released in 2008 and reached number 1 on the UK classical music charts. The album featured a mix of traditional Welsh songs, classical pieces, and pop covers. Only Men Aloud has since released several more albums, including Band of Brothers (2009), In Festive Mood (2010), and On the Road (2011). The group's music has been featured in several films and television shows, including the BBC's Doctor Who and Torchwood. In addition to their recording career, Only Men Aloud has performed at some of the world's most prestigious venues. The group has performed at the Royal Albert Hall in London, the Sydney Opera House in Australia, and Carnegie Hall in New York City. They have also performed for the Queen of England and the Prince of Wales. Only Men Aloud has won numerous awards for their performances, including the Classical Brit Award for Album of the Year in 2010. The group has also been nominated for several other awards, including the International Emmy Award for Arts Programming. Only Men Aloud has become known for their energetic and engaging performances. The group's concerts often feature elaborate staging and choreography, as well as guest performers and musicians. Only Men Aloud has collaborated with several other artists, including Welsh singer Katherine Jenkins and American singer Josh Groban. Despite their success, Only Men Aloud remains committed to promoting Welsh music and culture. The group often performs traditional Welsh songs, and has recorded several albums of Welsh music. Only Men Aloud has also worked with local schools and community groups to promote music education and encourage young people to get involved in music. In conclusion, Only Men Aloud is a Welsh classical music group that has become one of the most popular and successful male choirs in the United Kingdom. The group was founded by Tim Rhys-Evans in 2000, and has since won numerous awards and performed at some of the world's most prestigious venues.

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