David Vaughan Thomas, musician and composer, was born at Ystalyfera, Glamorgan. He attended Llandovery College and Exeter College, Oxford, where he gained a Musical Doctorate. 

He taught at Harrow School, Middlesex, before returning to Wales to devote himself to music. In 1927 he became overseas examiner for Trinity College, London, and travelled extensively in the Commonwealth. 

His chief works are 'Llyn y fan', 'A Song for St Cecilia's Day' and 'The Bard'; he wrote a large number of anthems and songs, in English and Welsh, arrangements of folk songs and hymns, and instrumental works, many of which remain unpublished.