This is how a Hungarian song sounded in Wales — VIDEO, PHOTOS

On the occasion of the commemoration of the 1848-49 revolution, the inhabitants of Montgomery made a touching tribute. The Welsh city, which is famous in Hungary as it is mentioned in János Arany’s ballad, also appears in the video.

Montgomery, the Hungarian city of Wales

Castle Wales — Photo: Castles for Battles.

People played János Bródy’s “Ha én rózsa volnék” (“If I were a rose”) at the Montgomery City Hall in Wales. The performance, which also features the city’s mayor, has been recorded. The local folk ensemble Monty Folk shared the recording on the morning of the 14th of March.

Montgomery is familiar to all Hungarians from János Arany ballad called “The bards of Wales”.

In the city of bards, you can often hear people singing or playing Hungarian melodies. The residents of the city are proud of their Hungarian connection and the work of János Arany, and even organised a Montgomery Hungarian Day which will be held on 14th May. Among the numerous all-day programs, the inauguration of the trilingual plaque of János Arany will be the highlight of the celebration. “We are proud that every Hungarian student comes across the name of our city during their studies,” said Jill Kibble, Mayor of Montgomery. This is due to János Arany, the famous late Hungarian poet’s work, who was also awarded the title Free Citizen of Montgomery a few years ago.

For the small town of 1,200 inhabitants, cherishing the Hungarian culture is important.

The event presents the rich cultural connections between Wales and Hungary. There will be a Hungarian Café, a school competition, and Hungarian and Welsh music performances at the first event to commemorate the 165-year old ballad.

International competition for students

The organisers have also launched an international study competition and await the submitted works of primary and secondary school students from Great Britain, Hungary and all other countries. The ‘Rethinking of The bards of Wales’ competition aims to approach the history and message of the ballad from a different, unique perspective.

The winning work will be exhibited at the Montgomery Hungarian Day and in the János Arany Memorial Museum in Nagyszalonta.

The members of the jury include Boglárka Gali, director of the János Arany Memorial Museum, Josette Gresty, artist and Minier Márta, the drama professor of South-Welsh University.

Source: preflect, Magyar Crymru