Born in Merthyr Tydfil, Darya was educated at Cyfarthfa High School. In 1988 she graduated from the University of York with B.A. (Hons) Music/Education. Whilst at York, she studied piano, trumpet and voice. Darya furthered her musical studies in 1989 by undertaking a Post Graduate diploma at the University of Wales, Cardiff and holds a Masters Degree in Leadership and Management.
Commencing her professional career as a Primary School teacher in Pontypool, Darya soon moved into the field of Special Education and is now Headteacher at Pen-y-Cwm Special School in Ebbw Vale.
In addition to being musical director to Dowlais Male Choir, Darya enjoys a firm association with Pontypridd Male Choir. She is also in demand as a guest MD with other male choirs, and is the accompanist to Con Voce, a chamber choir, based in Merthyr Tydfil. Darya is also the organist and a deacon at High Street Baptist Church.
Darya enjoys working with young people both in and out of school time and was appointed as the first Musical Director to Sioergerdd/Showcase Performing Arts Youth Association. She has worked as a chorus trainer for “Katerina”, a youth project within the Welsh National Opera.
Darya has accompanied many choirs and artistes over the years and has performed in significant venues in Great Britain, Belgium, France, Italy, Germany, South Africa, the U.S.A and Canada
Darya is delighted to be the Musical Director of the choir in its fiftieth year, and looks forward to a long and successful association with the choir in the future.