William Penfro Rowlands (1860–1937) was a Welsh schoolteacher and composer.[1]
Rowlands was born at Llys y Frân, Maenclochog, Pembrokeshire (Sir Benfro in the Welsh language, hence his middle name). Probably his best-known composition is the hymn-tune "Blaenwern", composed in 1905. As well as being a church musician, Rowlands also taught in several schools. He was also the conductor of the Morriston United Choral Society.[2]
He died in Swansea. A memorial stone to the composer was unveiled in March 1998, close to his birthplace.[3]