Changes in Cerdd Dant

The main differences between the cerdd dant of today and the old type of singing (in the 19th century and the beginning of the 20th century)

1. Up to the 20th century cerdd dant was sung by individuals only – no duets, trios, parties or choirs existed.
2. It was an improvisatory art: no one bothered to compose and learn a setting or counter melody before singing it.
3. The emphasis was almost entirely on the words. By today, much more prominence is given to the music.
4. Very few females sang cerdd dant. By today, females are in the majority.
5. It was a much less respectable art then than it is now, in some circles at least!
6. There were no set rules agreed by any organisation or conference.