The 2026 Trallong Eisteddfod has been hailed a resounding success after bringing together singers, musicians and performers at Maescar Hall in Sennybridge.

Six talented soloists competed in the Champion Solo competition at this year’s event, with many appearing at the event for the first time. The title was won by Rhiannon Jones from Brentford - a new competitor on this particular stage - who also claimed the prize for the Champion Female Solo (18-30).

Rhiannon Jones receives the John Robinson Cup from Mary Robinson, alongside evening president Ydwena Jones and the adjudicators
Rhiannon Jones receives the John Robinson Cup from Mary Robinson, alongside evening president Ydwena Jones and the adjudicators (.)

The second prize Champion Soloist was Heulen Cynfal of Bala, who won the Champion Female Solo category, while Robert Jenkins of Aberteifi took third place and also won the Male Solo competition.

Other newcomers included Gareth Jones of Denbigh and Sulwen Davies of Llanelli, while regular competitors including Glasnant Morgan, Ann Watkins, Maria Evans, Elin Havard, Emyr Evans, Sian Norgate, David Price and Lucy Sullivan were also among the prize-winners.

A highlight of the evening was the choir competition, which featured the 2026 Royal Welsh Brecknock Choir. More than 80 singers performed under the baton of Lynne Bryer, impressing an audience which included many hearing and enjoying the choir for the first time.

In the children’s classes, Eiry Price won the Mrs Mary Price Trophy for showing the most potential in the local classes.

Eiry Price receives the Maescar Cup.
Eiry Price receives the Maescar Cup (.)

The Mr Alec Tompkins Perpetual Miniature Chair for the competitor showing the most potential in the children’s open classes was won by Psalm Payne of Defynnog, described as a talented young performer with a very bright future ahead.

Ed Edwards took the junior instrumental prize, while Lucy Sullivan won the adult instrumental prize.

The adjudicators for the Eisteddfod were Mr Gareth Wyn Thomas of Capel Hendre for the music and Ms Elen Rhys of Cardiff, who judged the stage recitation and senior literature classes. The latter classes were well supported, with Ms Rhys praising the high standard of the winning entries.

The presidents for the day were Mr Marc Williams of Sennybridge and Mrs Ydwena Jones of Llanhamlach. Both delivered addresses featuring memories of past Eisteddfodau, while also offering thoughtful reflections and generous donations.

The event was supported by talented accompanists Mrs Bethan Thomas of Crossgates and Miss Sian Davies of Bridgend.

Conductors Mrs Elaine Pye of Trallong, Mrs Mary Hodges of Cardiff, Mr Marc Williams, Mrs Bethan Price of Sennybridge and Mr Dyfed Watkins of Trecastle helped ensure the competitions ran smoothly and the event flowed well.

Senior literature winners on the day included Margaret Blake, Owen Williams and John Edwards (all of Brecon), Bethan Price (Defynnog), Alec Tompkins (Aberbran), Megan Richards (Aberaeron), Myfanwy Roberts (Llanrwst), Gaenor Mai Jones (Pentre’r Eglwys), Lorraine Voss (Llanwrtyd) and Dyfan Phillips (Ruthin).

In her vote of thanks, committee chairman Mrs Marilyn Jones thanked Julie Robinson, Julie and Evie Lewis, Angharad and Rhianwen for their work as door-keepers, alongside competitors, trainers and the audience for their continued support.

She paid particular tribute to Mrs Mary Robinson, describing her as the driving force behind the Eisteddfod and the person who keeps the event running smoothly.