The Aberhonddu & District Male Choir, joined by the Dunvant Male Choir, recently embarked on a memorable cultural exchange to the stunning Dolomites, northern Italy.

Hosted by local a local male voice choir, Coro Fodom, the choirs spent a long weekend immersed in music, mountains, laughter and friendship.

Landing in Venice on Thursday, September 18, the group began a scenic, winding bus journey to Arabba, a picturesque alpine village nestled in a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

On Friday, the choirs visited Cortina d’Ampezzo, host of the upcoming 2026 Winter Olympics. After exploring the town, they continued to Passo Falzarego and ascended Lagazuoi Mountain by cable car, taking in stunning 360-degree views of the surrounding peaks and valleys.

Saturday included a visit to the Andraz Castle, built in 1027 and is the symbol of the Fodom valley. Later, many took the cable car in Arabba for views of Marmolada, the highest peak in the Dolomites and home to the renowned perennial glacier.

That evening, the two choirs performed in a joint concert with Coro Fodom, who impressed with their traditional acappella repertoire. An ‘afterglow’ celebration followed with music, food, and camaraderie. Despite its small population of just 1,500 across 100 km², the Fodom valley supports a rich musical culture, including choirs and orchestras.

Sunday’s farewell included a trip to Passo Campolongo and a scenic lift to Bec de Roces, where the group enjoyed a final meal and performing a few songs beneath the sunlit peaks.

With perfect weather, warm hospitality, and unforgettable scenery, the trip strengthened bonds between the choirs and their hosts, forging new friendships across borders through the shared language of music.

If you would like to be part of future adventures and you enjoy singing, consider joining the choir. Rehearsals take place every Thursday evening at the Barn at Brynich - who knows where the next journey might lead?