One year on from competing in the Cardiff Singer of the World finals, the stage of world opera is opening its doors to local opera singer Gary Griffiths.
Last week, Gary Griffiths gave his European opera debut at Germany’s Wiesbaden State Opera – one of Europe’s leading opera companies – performing the role of Count Almaviva in Mozart’s Les Nozze di Figaro. His debut was so well received that Gary has already been offered further exciting roles with the opera company.
“It’s exciting, thrilling, a privilege – all rolled into one – to perform at such a leading opera house”, explains Gary. “To perform at an opera house where so many opera legends have performed is a wonderful experience.”
A LIFE CHANGING EXPERIENCE
Since reaching the finals of Cardiff Singer of the World, the charismatic baritone from Pembrey has seen his singing career turn international with performances spanning the Royal Opera House in Oman to New Zealand Festival Opera.
“I’ll never forget the tremendous reaction from the full house at St David’s Hall as I walked on stage”, said Gary. “It can only be described as explosive!”
“Not only did the competition put me on the international opera scene, but I grew massively as an individual. The challenge I faced gave me so much knowledge and confidence.”
The results speak for themselves. The tall rich voiced baritone from coastal Wales is now treading the stages of world opera. Gary is enjoying a busy season of roles and engagements both across the UK and abroad.
Other future performances include the Dream of Gerontius at Wells Cathedral, his debut with the Hallé Orchestra at Manchester’s Bridgewater Hall and his debut with the Scottish Opera.
LEADING WELSH STARS UNITE FOR DÉBUT ALBUM
Gary has just recorded his début album by SAIN for release before Christmas. The album titled “Début” will feature a beautiful collection of opera, classical, folk and musical theatre. The album sees Gary join by a wealth of Welsh singing and music artists including leading soprano Rebecca Evans, Llanelli’s Hywel Girls’ Choir & Hywel Boy Singers and the Eisteddfod winning Pontarddulais Male Choir and pianist Caradog Williams.
“I’m very excited at the recording of my debut album”, said Gary. “The album captures my passion for opera but also a popular collection of songs from different genres. I’m also delighted that the album will include performances with good friends such as Rebecca Evans, early mentor John Hywel Williams and his Hywel choristers and the mighty Pontarddulais Male Choir.”
An exciting launch concert performance for his debut album is planned for 22 November at Llanelli’s Ffwrnes. The night of opera, classics and musical theatre which will feature Gary Griffiths and the Hywel Girls’ Choir & Hywel Boy Singers and Pontarddulais Male Choir and hosted by BBC’s much lovely Beverley Humphreys.
