Return of Bryn Terfel

Worshipped as he is throughout the music world, it’s appropriate that Bryn Terfel is being acclaimed as one of the greatest ever performers of the role of chief god Wotan in Wagner’s Ring Cycle. The combination of a great voice, immaculate diction, commanding stage presence and flair for acting has made Bryn Terfel the hottest property in opera throughout the world.

Jitka Slavíková asked Bryn Terfel few questions beforehis January performance.

Without a doubt. From it’s Eisteddfod competitions to television and radio and the enormous support the country bestows on it’s artists. The welsh language is also of huge significance due to it’s natural singing advantages. The amazing tradition of singing be it in choirs or as soloists. And last bit not least the tradition is there and always being nurtured from all ages.

Yes I have had a festival for nine years but still searching for the elusive tenth. The recession certainly was a factor in cancelling two festivals which was a huge disappointment for me personally. The audiences certainly enjoyed what we brought to the area but maybe our agnation diminished where artists were concerned and therefore suffered. But I never say die. The tenth year will certainly be upon us by hook or by crook. Not next year but certainly in the coming future. Get good sponsors and audiences interested in the evenings is the key to unlock that decade of concerts at the Faenol.

Hard work and dedication. Constant preparation on repertoire and striving to achieve something within ones short career. Keep your feet planted firmly on the ground and and be a good concentrated colleague. Enjoy it while it lasts and make use of the talent your given to the fullest degree. Also make sure you have other interests that feathers ones cap. Golf ,wine ,books ,collecting art, snooker, movies, anything that takes you out of any given situation.

This is something I have just began. No scholarships have been given out as of yet. Still need to work on bringing in money to the foundation and when that’s in place full steam ahead. Certainly thinking of awards fro welsh singers but also actor and maybe the visual arts. No idea how to structure it at the moment but I can see it someday being an award that international artists may step forward. The initial thought stemmed from hearing tales from inspiring young singers leaving their studies with a huge financial burden and then taking the first offer on the table to pay off debts. Not a good way to start ones career. I hope some day it will achieve such heights as foundations like Dame Kiri Te Kanawa’s, it will be hard work and dedication.

I was lucky to win the Kathleen Ferrier memorial scholarship, our own National Eisteddfod Tywyn Roberts Scholarship and the lieder prize in the Cardiff singer of the world. They set me on the right path with a great financial boost for extra lessons, new clothes shoes, coaching, expenses. I worked hard for these benefits and was pretty fortunate to succeed.

No, but I have certainly picked up certain repertoire in a matter of days. With a little application one can work wonders and under a certain pressure. Remember ones university days ten songs memorised was like riding a bike. Early bird catches the worm. I work better early mornings and late at night. During the day I am absolutely atrocious!

I adore returning to a city. Usually the first trip is short and the possibilities to attempt to see or do things are impossible. The family will not be able to travel with me due to the children having rather busy school activities. Cest la vie. Yes the boys mes are certainly welsh with also an easy international pronunciation.