Give feedback on this pagePatricia Sot, a 15-year-old Polish pupil at Ysgol Brynhyfryd, Ruthin, had never heard of Llangollen or the Royal International Musical Eisteddfod until she was placed there on work experience as a volunteer in the Competitors Club for the week long event in July.
But now, the magic of the Eisteddfod has won over another fan as, in her own words, Patricia describes the Eisteddfod and Llangollen as ‘the perfect place for everyone’.
She explains the event far exceeded her expectations and how much she enjoyed getting to know different people, their music, art, culture and religion.
“You just have to feel the atmosphere and the enthusiasm grows in you,” she said.
“Llangollen is a small town with a huge purpose. This festival helps remind you that the world is not divided by race. Art and music bring people together and the Eisteddfod makes this happen.”
In a touching letter to Eisteddfod staff, thanking them for her time there, Patricia expresses her gratitude for the opportunity to meet people from across the world
“I have to say that the Eisteddfod week was an important time in my life.
“Before my work experience, I had wondered about going back to Poland because I felt like a stranger from another planet here in Wales – but I changed my mind after the Eisteddfod.”
Needless to say, Patricia hopes to be able to volunteer with the Eisteddfod next year and will be more than welcome.
Patricia was given this opportunity thanks to Llangollen International Musical Eisteddfod staff and volunteers and her story will be appearing in the next Music & Staging newsletter 'MiScellany'