Daniel Jones

Daniel Jones 1912 – 1993

A celebrated musician, linguist and a remarkable polymath, Dan was a lifelong friend of Dylan, and their first meeting, as they both walked towards Swansea Grammar School, is vividly narrated in Thomas' short story, 'The Fight'. After this incident, Dylan was a frequent visitor to the Jones family home, Warmley in Sketty, where they wrote poetry, played music and formed their own broadcasting company.

Jones became one of Wales' most distinguished composers, writing thirteen symphonies in all, number four of which is dedicated to Dylan's memory. Among his other works are chamber music, including several string quartets and a sonata for three timpani, orchestral and choral works, and several operas. He wrote the music for the first radio production of Under Milk Wood in 1954 and he went on to edit the text of the first published version of the play.

He also compiled and edited a volume of Thomas' prose, A Prospect of the Sea, in 1955 and in 1971 edited Dylan Thomas - The Poems. His memoir, My Friend Dylan Thomas, was published in 1977. Jones was made an OBE in 1968.