Mark Ritzmann
Mark was born in Brecon. He was organist at his home church for 10 years or so, as well as a regular accompanist.
After moving to Neath, he took up the role of Organist and Choir Director at St.David’s Church, Neath in 1991 – a post which he has now held for over 30 years. Mark is a very active member of St.David’s, not only with the Church Choir and music, but also the running of this building much used by the community. He is chairman of The Friends of St.David’s.
He has had the privilege of encouraging many young choristers in their early years, including the now highly successful singer, Katherine Jenkins, a former Head Chorister at St.David’s. In 2006, Mark was awarded the Archbishop of Wales Certificate of Merit for services to Church music, and the following year received an award from the High Sheriff of West Glamorgan for ‘great and valuable services to the community’.
In 2010, Mark co-founded Neath Polyphonic Choir which has since become a very vibrant choir in this area and has gained a large number of friends and followers. In 2014, he was delighted to receive a Citizenship Award from Neath Town Council ‘in recognition for his service in the community’.
Mark had his own music teaching business in Neath, but now focusses on his work with the church and the two Choirs he directs, as well as freelance organ playing. In 2021 he was appointed by the Bishop of Llandaff to the role of Lay Chair of the Ministry Area of Afon Nedd (Neath, Skewen and Briton Ferry). He very much feels this appointment to be a ‘calling’, and it has been a challenging but exciting new chapter in his life.
Mark says, ‘One of the real joys and rewarding aspects of Neath Polyphonic has been the opportunity to meet many new friends and share with them in performing some wonderful music. I hope our members and audiences feel equally fulfilled and enriched too’.
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