Blodeugerdd—Song of the Flowers CD

On June 23rd, 2009, Smithsonian Folkways is pleased to release Blodeugerdd—Song of the Flowers, an anthology of music from the rich traditions of Wales.

The musical landscapes painted by the ethereal sounds of the voice, Welsh harps, flutes, and fiddles highlight the traditions of Wales while offering a fresh, forward-looking approach expressed by the creativity of each musician. Adding to this unique musical portrait, Blodeugerdd was recorded in a 15th century gate-house over the course of one week.
Celebrating the music and stories of twenty-two artists from Wales, Blodeugerdd, (pronounced Blod-eye-gerth), is a snapshot of the cultural richness of this nation and is a part of the Wales Smithsonian Cymru program at the 43rd annual Smithsonian Folklife Festival attended by one million people each year on the National Mall in Washington, D.C.

Artists Christine Cooper, Julie Murphy, Sille Ilves, and Martin Leamon featured on this album, will also be present at this year’s festival. You can catch a glimpse of their music by visiting our Myspace page at http://www.myspace.com/smithsonianfolkways. For additional information, please visit http://www.folkways.si.edu/ or www.festival.si.edu/2009/wales/index.aspx.