1958 -59

Between 1958 and 1959, the Maesteg Workingman's Glee Party (later known as the Maesteg Gleemen) was formally established, built its initial musical foundation, and delivered its first public performances:

1958: Inception, Rehearsals, and Stage Debut

• Formation (Early–March 1958): Early in 1958, Roy Davies and Allun Morris regularly sang informal Western songs and ballads, often listening to local men sing harmonies at The Wyndham pub in Nantyffyllon. In late March 1958, after learning that a choir was being formed at the Maesteg Workingmen's Club on Temple Street, Davies and Morris joined the founding group. This filled a major local void, as the Llynfi Valley had lacked a male voice choir since the Maesteg British Legion choir disbanded in 1954.

• Leadership & First Practices: The choir organized under the name Maesteg Workingman's Glee Party, spearheaded by David "Dai" Howell Jones. Idris Williams of Glyncorrwg was appointed Musical Director, with Dick Jury as the initial accompanist. Practice sessions took place every Sunday from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM on the first floor of the Workingmen's Club, starting with 14 to 18 choristers learning pieces such as Bizet's "Serenade" and "Crossing the Plain".

• New Accompanist: When Dick Jury fell ill shortly after the choir's formation, the group recruited Mrs. Glenys Gwylim, a local music teacher, as their new accompanist.

• First Public Concert (Autumn 1958): In Autumn 1958, at the Matron's request, the choir made its public stage debut at Maesteg Hospital, followed by an "afterglow" social performance at Maesteg Rugby Club.

• Christmas Eve 1958: The choir returned to give a grand Christmas Carol concert at Maesteg Hospital and a repeat evening performance at the Rugby Club, launching a Christmas Eve tradition that lasted for over ten years.

• Mystery Trips & Fundraisers: Dai Howell organized Saturday evening "mystery trips" by bus to local pubs (such as the Plough and Arrow and the Pelican in Ogmore), where choristers performed individual party pieces. To purchase sheet music and cover travel expenses, the choir also took paid engagements across the local club circuit.

1959: Expansion, Community Outreach, and Growing Traditions

• Charitable & Civic Concerts: The choir expanded its community activities, performing at local nursing homes, raising funds for Llynfi Valley charities, and helping raise money for church restorations.

• British Legion Performances: In 1959, the choir was invited to perform at the Maesteg British Legion Club, establishing an annual fixture. Around 11th November 1959, they sang at the British Legion's Remembrance service on Commercial Street, followed by an informal concert at the club.

• Key New Member: Towards the end of 1959, Myrddyn "Megs" Jenkins—a Coegnant Colliery worker and rugby player for the Celtic Rugby Club—joined the choir as a bass and comedian, becoming a popular performer in choir concerts.

• Christmas 1959: The choir closed the year by repeating its successful Christmas performances at Maesteg Hospital and Maesteg Rugby Club.