OPERA star Sir Bryn Terfel is calling on the world’s most talented young singers to compete for a title that could propel them to international stardom.

The renowned bass-baritone described the Pendine International Voice of the Future competition at the Llangollen International Musical Eisteddfod as “a wonderful opportunity” for budding performers to launch their careers on the global stage.

Sir Bryn, from Pantglas, near Penygroes, Gwynedd, will headline the Eisteddfod’s closing concert on Sunday, July 13, at the International Pavilion. He plans to perform songs from his latest album, Sea Songs, alongside acclaimed folk group Fisherman’s Friends and Welsh folk singer Eve Goodman.

The concert will also feature the final of this year’s Pendine International Voice of the Future competition, which has been a highlight of the festival since its launch in 2013. Last year, Singaporean soprano Shimona Rose claimed the title in a thrilling finale against Welsh soprano Manon Ogwen Parry.

Prestigious prize

Sponsored by Pendine Park through the Pendine Arts and Community Trust (PACT), the competition awards the winner the Pendine Trophy and a £3,000 cheque. The runner-up will receive £1,000.

The closing date for entries is Thursday, February 20. Entrants, aged 19 or over, must submit an audio recording and proof of age with their application. They will perform a seven-minute programme in the preliminary rounds and a ten-minute programme in the final, featuring works from oratorio, opera, lieder, or song, sung in their original language.

Sir Bryn said: “The Pendine International Voice of the Future competition is a fantastic opportunity for talented young singers. It provides a real launchpad for careers onto the global stage.”

A global stage

Llangollen Eisteddfod’s Artistic Director, Dave Danford, said this year’s competition final, held during the closing concert, would give contestants the chance to perform on the same stage as Sir Bryn.

“The competition provides a valuable stepping stone for young singers pursuing professional careers,” he said. “So far, we’ve received entries from China, Nigeria, England, and Wales. The selection panel will choose the competitors after the February 20 deadline.”

The competition was conceived by Pendine Park proprietors Mario Kreft MBE and his wife, Gill, who praised the extraordinary talent it continues to attract.

Mr Kreft said: “The standard is phenomenal. This year’s contestants also have the thrill of sharing a stage with Sir Bryn, one of the opera world’s true giants.”

Exciting concert lineup

The Eisteddfod’s evening concerts promise something for everyone. Legendary rock singer Roger Daltrey opens the season on Tuesday, July 8, with hits from The Who and his solo career, including a Q&A session with fans.

On Wednesday, July 9, a special concert, Uniting Nations: One World, will mark the 80th anniversary of the United Nations. The event will feature Karl Jenkins’ One World performed by an international massed choir, including the Stay At Home Choir.

Thursday, July 10, sees BRIT Award-winning artist KT Tunstall perform her iconic album Eye to the Telescope with a live orchestra, marking its 20th anniversary. On Friday, July 11, Il Divo makes its Llangollen debut, delighting fans with their classical crossover repertoire.

For details on the Pendine International Voice of the Future competition and tickets, visit international-eisteddfod.co.uk.

Caption:
Sir Bryn Terfel performing at the Llangollen International Musical Eisteddfod. (Pic: Supplied)

TRAFFIC on the M4 motorway in Wales came to a halt following a crash that left a car stranded in the central reservation on Sunday (Jan 26). The incident occurred on the westbound carriageway between junction 48 at Hendy and junction 49 at Pont Abraham. Emergency services, including fire crews, responded swiftly to the scene.

In addition to the collision, standing water on the road caused by heavy rain earlier in the day created hazardous driving conditions. The adverse weather, part of Storm Herminia’s impact on Wales, added to the challenges. A yellow weather warning for wind and rain had been issued across various regions of the country.

Queues formed near Pontardulais Road close to Llanelli, with traffic monitoring system Inrix reporting growing delays in the area. Traffic on the westbound lane came to a standstill, raising safety concerns for road users. Fire crews worked quickly to manage the situation, ensuring the safety of all involved.

Drivers faced further challenges due to reduced visibility and slippery conditions caused by the persistent heavy rain. Emergency services urged motorists to exercise caution and adhere to instructions as they worked to clear the scene.

The crash disrupted travel for commuters and motorists relying on the M4, with delays and congestion building near the accident site. Authorities advised drivers to remain patient and vigilant as efforts to restore normal traffic flow continued.

The incident served as a stark reminder of the importance of road safety during adverse weather. Motorists were encouraged to adjust their driving to account for challenging conditions, such as standing water and high winds, to prevent further incidents.

With traffic now moving cautiously through the affected area, the incident underscores the unpredictable nature of motorway travel and the importance of preparedness, particularly during stormy weather.

RUMOURS circulating on Facebook and in local chat groups have linked paedophile hunter group The Welsh Warriors to the arrest of Brian Underwood at his Milford Haven home on Thursday, January 23, at 8:30am. However, the group has released a statement categorically denying any involvement in the case.

A spokesperson for The Welsh Warriors said: “We are aware that a Milford Haven man, Brian Underwood, was arrested by police at his home this week, and that our name has been used in connection with this arrest. This is not true. We are also concerned about reports that some individuals are considering organising a protest. The Welsh Warriors have no information regarding this person to suggest that such action is necessary.”

The group urged the public to refer to their official Facebook page for accurate updates on their operations and efforts to assist the police in apprehending offenders, as well as their mission to protect children in Wales from predators.

Brian Underwood’s partner, Kayleigh Griffiths, told The Herald that while her partner had been arrested, the rumours circulating about the reason for his arrest are false.

“People have got the wrong idea,” she said. “We cannot yet release the reason for Brian’s arrest at this time, but all will become clear soon.”

The Herald has contacted Dyfed-Powys Police for comment.