OPERA HOLIDAY

BBC Cardiff Singer of the World 2013 –
30th Anniversary

The BBC Cardiff Singer of the World is celebrating its 30th Anniversary. This well respected competition has launched the careers of many well-known singers. Not all have won the final prize, but the competitive exposure to concerts in front of a distinguished jury, and a discerning audience has brought them to the notice of agents, opera managements and future audiences. Attending the concerts as part of the audience or at the Master Classes gives an insight into what goes into success as a singer - the importance of presentation, the choice of programmes to exhibit the voice and the personality, but not to overstrain it, the stamina to make it through the competition and, of course, a fair measure of luck.

BBC Cardiff Singer of the World is immaculately organised, with the emphasis put on removing unnecessary stress and allowing contestants excellent rehearsal facilities. Representatives are selected from 20 nations and there are awards for both singing with orchestra, and for piano-accompanied song. The criteria for entry are loose: only those over 32, or who have sung a leading role in a major house are excluded. The initial line-up has, since 1989, been entirely selected by Julian Smith, a coach and conductor who travels the world listening to winners of national competitions and members of postgraduate training programmes.

We have the best seats for all performances in St David’s Hall and the New Theatre.

Hotel: The Cardiff Marriott Hotel was refurbished in 2008 and offers all modern facilities. It is conveniently located in the heart of the city centre, within walking distance of Cardiff Castle, the Millennium Stadium and the National Museum of Wales.The Marriott has a swimming pool and fitness centre. The hotel is next door to the new St David’s Shopping Centre, John Lewis and the famous Victorian and Edwardian arcades of Cardiff. It is within walking distance of both the New Theatre and St David’s Hall. Parking is available at a charge of £14 per day.

Package Details:

The package price includes bed and breakfast accommodation for either five nights or nine nights at the Marriott Hotel, tickets, an illustrated presentation, a drinks reception and a half-day excursion.

Programme details:

Day 1

Saturday 15 June

Independent travel to Cardiff. The rest of the day is at leisure to explore Cardiff

Day 2

14:00

19:30

Sunday 16 June

Recital 1 of the Song Prize at the New Theatre

Recital 2 of the Song Prize at the New Theatre

Day 3

14:00

19:25

Monday 17 June

Recital 3 of the Song Prize at the New Theatre

Concert 1 of the Singer of the World at St David’s Hall.

Day 4

14:00