An operatic society was formed in 1963 at St Jude’s Church in Mount Pleasant, Swansea, to perform the works of Gilbert and Sullivan. In 1965, the church held its 50th anniversary and the male members of the society learned a few items to sing during a week of celebrations. These included songs such as Myfanwy by Joseph Parry and All in the April Evening. The operatic society folded shortly afterwards, but 14 members attempted to reform with a view to rehearsing in the church hall of the catholic church on Sketty Road in Swansea. This never really took off. Undaunted however, the 14 stalwarts met at The Mountain Dew, a pub in Mount Pleasant, and decided to learn a few more items and become a permanent choir. A constitution was drawn up and thus was born The Gwalia Singers.

Rehearsals began at the home of one of the members. The Musical Director was Bryan Myles and the accompanist was Mrs. Elizabeth Davies.

The first performance given by the Gwalia Singers was done for free as, at such an early stage, it would have been difficult to attract a large audience. Islwyn Bennett persuaded the Village Hall Committee to allow the choir to perform at Horton Hall. 

The first Annual Concert was held at a chapel in Waunarlwydd.