GYG-ON

Introducing “Gwlad y Gân - Ochr Newydd” (Gyg-On)

Our New Initiative to Celebrate Welsh Song and Community**

Engedi 2.0 is thrilled to announce a vibrant new project, “Gwlad y Gân - Ochr Newydd”—or Gyg-On! Inspired by Wales’ legacy as the “Land of Song,” this initiative aims to bring the basement of Capel Engedi to life as a dynamic music and collaboration space for all local musicians, where Welsh language, music, and community spirit flourish. Our vision is to create a modern-day musical hub, celebrating both traditional Welsh song and contemporary genres, where everyone feels welcome, whether they are fluent speakers, new learners, or simply music enthusiasts.

Gyg-On: A Space for Music, Connection, and Cultural Rebirth

At Engedi 2.0, we believe music has the power to unite communities across divides. Gyg-On is designed to serve as a collaborative, welcoming space for all who want to celebrate Welsh culture through song, dance, and community-building activities. We plan to offer resources for music rehearsals, live streaming, and media production, providing a platform for Welsh artists, musicians, and community members to showcase and develop their talents.

But Gyg-On isn’t just about music. It’s about creating a place where people can connect meaningfully with the Welsh language and culture in a way that feels fresh, inclusive, and inspiring. Our aim is to encourage people of all backgrounds to come together, share stories, and, most importantly, find joy in learning and participating in Welsh traditions, whether they’re native speakers or new to the language.

Breaking Down Barriers: A Gentle, Inclusive Approach to Welsh Culture

We understand that for some, the Welsh language and its cultural symbols can feel guarded—a natural response to centuries of post-colonial challenges. But Gyg-On is about dissolving these barriers with respect, playfulness, and creativity. We envision a space where new learners feel completely at ease, where they’re encouraged to take their time with the language, and where Welsh is not a requirement but an invitation. Here, the Welsh language becomes a shared journey rather than a threshold.

We want Gyg-On to be a place where people can express themselves freely, discover Welsh through music, and feel the pride of being part of a culture that values song as a unifying force. We’re here to say that this is “Gwlad y Gân” (Land of Song) we’re not just about celebrating a cherished past we’re also creating new traditions that bring song to life in our present day.

At Gyg-On, we want to bring people together in harmony, to sing without fear of judgment, and to experience the unique beauty of Welsh song in a setting that’s as dynamic as it is inclusive.

Calling for Collaborators and Supporters

To bring Gyg-On to life, we need your help. We are reaching out to everyone: Welsh speakers and English speakers, musicians, artists, language enthusiasts, and community builders who are passionate about music and cultural preservation. We’re seeking collaborators who want to co-create this vision with us, who are excited to bridge cultural divides and create something truly transformative for Caernarfon and beyond.

As a grassroots project, Gyg-On is currently unfunded, so we are also looking for funding partners and support from organizations that share our vision. By partnering with us, funders will have the opportunity to contribute to a truly unique initiative that brings together community, culture, and creativity in one powerful space. We are currently exploring funding options, but every bit of support—from donations to equipment loans and volunteer hours—makes a meaningful difference.

Join Us in Building Gyg-On

Gyg-On is a movement to revitalize community song, embrace the Welsh language, and build bridges across linguistic and cultural divides. It’s about calling on the spirit of “Y Gwlad y Gân” and inviting it into our lives as we face the many challanges ahead. Together, we can transform this vision into a welcoming, energising reality where all voices are celebrated.

If you’re interested in collaborating, supporting, or simply learning more about Gyg-On, please get in touch with us at Engedi 2.0. Let’s make Caernarfon a true “Land of Song” in the 21st century—a place where everyone can come together in song, in celebration, and in the shared joy of Welsh culture.

Let’s make Gyg-On a reality—for Caernarfon, for Wales, for everyone.