"We formed the music society in order to promote and enhance the traditional music culture of the area. Unlike other Celtic nations such as Ireland, Scotland or Brittany, who have a vibrant community based music tradition, Wales is not known for its "ceilidh" culture.

If you say 'traditional Welsh music' to most people, they would not think of highly skilled and talented artists like Cerys Rhys Matthews (pipes), Harriet Earis (harp) or Cass Meurig (crwth).

Essentially what we are trying to build here is a musical culture such as you would find in Ireland or Scotland. That is based around sessions in the local pub, where people can come and join in, learn new songs and develop their skills - or simply listen and enjoy.

We provide one professional act per month and one open session - we also encourage people to bring their instruments along and strike up a tune at any time.

In its short life, the society has hosted some of the best new and established traditional musicians in Wales and is quickly gaining a reputation as a centre for folk music.

The society is run on a voluntary basis and relies on donations and nominal door charges. In recent months, we have received funding from the Laura Ashley Foundation and Felinfoel Brewery and we are grateful to the Arts Council for Wales and Communities First for the support they have given us."

Article by Giles Polglase and Lyn Ebenezer from Pontrhydfendigaid in Ceredigion.