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Original Lyrics Kelsang Pawo

Original Music George Lenoudias

Harp score by John Wilks

Caerphilly Male Voice Choir

Featuring Catrin Finch on harp

Solo Molly Quarterly (aged eleven)

The story

The Caerphilly Male Voice Choir have an illustrious history dating back over one hundred years. During that time, the choir have performed before countless enthusiast in as many venues spread far and wide at home and overseas.

In September 2009, Graham Thomas, while tending his allotment, listened to the Roy Noble show on BBC radio Wales. This was to prove to be the beginning of his friendship with Kelsang Pawo, who during his interview with Roy Noble, send out an open invitation to all choirs, orchestra's and recording artist of all genre's across the world to produce versions of Wish Fulfilling Tree.

Pawo spoke on air, of his vision to see the children's Anthem Wish Fulfilling Tree recorded in all and every language known to man. Immediately and without a moments hesitation, Graham rang Roys BBC studio and announced that the Caerphilly Male Voice Choir would willingly supply their version. It was for children and that was all that mattered to Graham...

The picture below. Shows a very happy Graham Thomas in the background, with John Wilks and Pawo. In the foreground we see young Molly Quarterly, our young soloist of eleven years of age.

This news was soon heard on the grape vine by Catrin Finch, one of the world's leading harpist with an international reputation to match the enormity of her talent. Catrin offered to accompany the Caerphilly Male Voice Choir and further to that she offered her recording studio and full recording facilities.

The picture below. Shows Catrin sitting at her harp in readiness for her superb performance.

The pictured below. Show Hazel Matthews, Catrin Finch and Pawo enjoying a chat after recording. The delight is seen on the faces

It was while arrangements were being set, that Hazel Matthews, the choirs musical director, introduced a master plan.

One of the verses that form Wish Fulfilling Tree, was perfect for a young soloist and Hazel knew the perfect young person to sing it.

The picture below. Shows Molly Quarterly, with Johns Wilks wife Georgina and George Lenoudias.

The picture below. Shows the happiness of Pawo and George to see the arrival of JadenCornelious.

The recording was set for April 13th 2010. Pawo, George Lenoudias, John Wilks, Jaden Cornelious, families and friends travelled to Wales for what was to prove to be a momentous evening that carried on long after the recording session was complete.

The picture below. Shows Hazel Matthews standing before the Caerphilly Male Voice Choir, passing on has final instructions

The irrisistable choir went across the road to the country pub and continued in song to the delight of all within range.

The picture below. Shows choir members in full song.

This was a wonderful experience. It was a joy to be present.

The picture below. Shows another of our young vocalist, Lyndon Bernsen Wilks, who was one of the two lads who recorded Wish Fulfilling Tree the hymn. Lyndon is the son of John Wilks, pictured in the background with a very happy Pawo. It was wonderful to see young Lyndon present and Pawo looks forward to the day when they can have a truly meaningful chat together.

Also the Gesar Foundation wish to thank the BBC and in particular, Roy Noble, for the inspiration, coverage and enthusiasm they have shown throughout.

May countless children benefit as the Caerphilly Male Voice Choir, with others to come, inspire choirs, orchestra's and individual artist across the seas and in every corner of the world.

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