Difas yr Eisteddfod

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-Winning one of the main vocal awards -of the National Eisteddfod...	0:00:03	0:00:07
-..is a true honour for the Welsh.	0:00:08	0:00:10
-These competitions -are for every voice...	0:00:10	0:00:13
-..but 54 women -have hit the high notes.	0:00:13	0:00:17
-We are the Divas of the Eisteddfod!	0:00:17	0:00:20
-# Ahhhh	0:00:27	0:00:31
-# Je veux vivre, dans le reve... #	0:00:31	0:00:36
-I've won two major singing -competitions at the Eisteddfod.	0:00:36	0:00:40
-On the lawns of Tredegar House -at the Newport Eisteddfod in 2004...	0:00:41	0:00:46
-..I won the Osborne Roberts Memorial -Prize and became an Eisteddfod diva.	0:00:47	0:00:52
-It's the Blue Riband -for singers under the age of 25.	0:00:52	0:00:55
-That Eisteddfod plays -an integral part in my career.	0:00:56	0:00:59
-It gave me the confidence -to compete and win...	0:01:00	0:01:03
-..the Towyn Roberts Scholarship -at the Mold Eisteddfod in 2007.	0:01:03	0:01:07
-This enabled me to follow a career -as a professional singer.	0:01:07	0:01:11
-# My faithful heart -is full of love to treasure #	0:01:12	0:01:17
-I'm not the only one to have had -great opportunities after winning.	0:01:18	0:01:22
-During the programme, I'll meet -some of the former winners.	0:01:22	0:01:27
-First, we should put -the competitions into context.	0:01:29	0:01:33
-Let's ask the former chief executive -of the Eisteddfod, Emyr Jenkins.	0:01:33	0:01:39
-Until the early 1980s, -the main singing competitions...	0:01:39	0:01:43
-..were the David Ellis Memorial -Prize for the over 25s...	0:01:43	0:01:47
-..and Osborne Roberts Memorial Prize -for the under 25s.	0:01:47	0:01:51
-Emyr Jenkins established the Towyn -Roberts Scholarship to fill the gap.	0:01:51	0:01:56
-The aim of the scholarship -is to help young singers...	0:01:57	0:02:00
-..and pay for their training in a -recognized music school or college.	0:02:01	0:02:06
-At the time, young people -who wanted a professional career...	0:02:07	0:02:11
-..did the Eisteddfod circuit -before going to music schools.	0:02:11	0:02:15
-We wanted these people -to be assisted by the Eisteddfod...	0:02:16	0:02:21
-..to further their careers.	0:02:22	0:02:24
-It called for a 20-minute program -of songs and a panel of judges.	0:02:24	0:02:29
-One judge stands out from the rest.	0:02:30	0:02:32
-His loyalty to the competition -was a great help.	0:02:33	0:02:36
-It's Sir Geraint Evans.	0:02:36	0:02:38
-He was a great friend -of Towyn Roberts.	0:02:38	0:02:41
-Towyn Roberts persuaded him -to be a judge in the competition.	0:02:41	0:02:46
-His name gave the competition -some gravitas.	0:02:46	0:02:50
-Even if you didn't reach -the stage...	0:02:50	0:02:53
-..you still had critique -from a world-famous opera singer.	0:02:53	0:02:58
-He was so kind -to the young people...	0:02:58	0:03:01
-..and always gave -constructive criticism.	0:03:02	0:03:05
-We were inundated with competitors.	0:03:05	0:03:08
-The preliminary rounds -took all day...	0:03:09	0:03:11
-..as there were so many competitors.	0:03:11	0:03:15
-Is the purpose of the competition -still as strong?	0:03:15	0:03:19
-Yes, the demand for a competition -of this kind grows every year.	0:03:19	0:03:24
-The quality of competitors -is higher than ever before...	0:03:24	0:03:29
-..and I hope this competition -has helped that.	0:03:30	0:03:33
-That gives three main awards.	0:03:35	0:03:38
-The David Ellis Memorial Prize -or Blue Riband is for the over 25s.	0:03:38	0:03:42
-There's a panel of judges -for this prize...	0:03:42	0:03:46
-..and the Osborne Roberts -Memorial Prize for those under 25.	0:03:46	0:03:51
-The Towyn Roberts Scholarship is for -those who want to turn professional.	0:03:52	0:03:57
-The prize of 5,000 -is for vocal training.	0:03:57	0:04:01
-Eisteddfod winners have always -enjoyed professional careers.	0:04:03	0:04:08
-One of those is the famous diva, -Leila Megane.	0:04:08	0:04:11
-Leila Megane was Wales' most famous -singer in the early 20th century.	0:04:12	0:04:17
-She was born in Bethesda in 1891 -but was raised in Pwllheli.	0:04:17	0:04:22
-She was born Margaret Jones...	0:04:22	0:04:24
-..but after moving -to London and Paris...	0:04:24	0:04:27
-..she took Leila Megane as her stage -name and it made her world famous.	0:04:27	0:04:32
-She's fascinated the singer and -Eisteddfod-winner, Caryl Hughes...	0:04:33	0:04:38
-..and former musical director -of Hogia'r Ddwylan, Ilid Anne Jones.	0:04:38	0:04:43
-She started singing in chapel.	0:04:44	0:04:46
-The chapel -was her first musical stage.	0:04:46	0:04:50
-She was one of those singers...	0:04:50	0:04:53
-..who could fill every chapel -and hall during that era.	0:04:53	0:04:59
-She had a unique singing voice...	0:04:59	0:05:02
-..and was a mezzo-soprano -or contralto.	0:05:03	0:05:07
-# All through the night #	0:05:07	0:05:12
-The National Eisteddfod -was an important factor...	0:05:13	0:05:16
-..in the life of Leila Megane.	0:05:16	0:05:18
-She won first prize -at the Anglesey Eisteddfod in 1910.	0:05:19	0:05:25
-Osborne Roberts was one -of the judges at that Eisteddfod.	0:05:25	0:05:31
-Neither thought -that 14 years later...	0:05:31	0:05:35
-..they would be husband and wife.	0:05:35	0:05:38
-Leila Megane also won at the Colwyn -Bay National Eisteddfod in 1910.	0:05:38	0:05:43
-This brought her into public domain.	0:05:43	0:05:46
-Her short, but incredible career...	0:05:46	0:05:49
-..saw her live in London and Paris -and perform across Europe.	0:05:49	0:05:53
-She knew Lloyd George and his wife -and mixed in important circles.	0:05:53	0:05:57
-She was set to travel to America -but the outbreak of World War II...	0:05:58	0:06:02
-..forced her and her husband, -to return to Wales.	0:06:02	0:06:06
-She was very well known in her day.	0:06:06	0:06:08
-Yes, she was incredibly famous.	0:06:08	0:06:11
-People such as Nellie Melba -and Adelina Patti knew of her...	0:06:11	0:06:15
-..and invited her -to sing at various events.	0:06:15	0:06:18
-She was the guest singer at the -Proms for eight consecutive years.	0:06:19	0:06:23
-She also worked with composers -such as Edward Elgar...	0:06:23	0:06:27
-..and made the first complete -recording of his work, Sea Pictures.	0:06:27	0:06:32
-She was an incredible star.	0:06:32	0:06:35
-This strict-metre stanza -is by D O Jones of Pentrefoelas.	0:06:35	0:06:39
-It speaks volumes -about Leila Megane.	0:06:40	0:06:42
-"She shared before the kings	0:06:42	0:06:45
-"The signs and sounds -of the centuries	0:06:45	0:06:48
-"To Wales, she was incomparable	0:06:48	0:06:51
-"She was a magnificent queen"	0:06:51	0:06:53
-Leila Megane -was last seen in public...	0:06:54	0:06:58
-..at a National Eisteddfod.	0:06:58	0:07:00
-It was in Caernarfon in 1959.	0:07:01	0:07:03
-A small tent had been set aside -for the singer.	0:07:04	0:07:07
-Eisteddfod-goers could go inside -to chat with her...	0:07:07	0:07:13
-..and meet this singer...	0:07:13	0:07:16
-..who was once world-famous -and a true star.	0:07:16	0:07:21
-# My country #	0:07:21	0:07:24
-Do you feel that the Eisteddfod -has steered your career?	0:07:25	0:07:30
-Just like Leila, yourself...	0:07:30	0:07:33
-..and many other young, -Welsh singers...	0:07:33	0:07:36
-..it was a platform for me.	0:07:36	0:07:38
-As a young singer, I could compete -and perform on an annual basis.	0:07:39	0:07:44
-Winning and being successful -in the Towyn Roberts Scholarship...	0:07:44	0:07:49
-..was wonderful for my career.	0:07:49	0:07:51
-It gives you recognition -and puts you on the map...	0:07:51	0:07:55
-..which is just what -any young performer needs.	0:07:55	0:07:58
-Osborne Roberts -was the composer of Y Nefoedd.	0:07:59	0:08:02
-Yes, Y Nefoedd -was initially composed for her.	0:08:02	0:08:07
-She performed it -at 10 Downing Street...	0:08:07	0:08:12
-..for Lloyd George -and other dignitaries of that time.	0:08:12	0:08:16
-# When life's long pilgrimage -is past	0:08:19	0:08:25
-# And we with grief have striven	0:08:25	0:08:31
-# How soothing to the wounded heart	0:08:31	0:08:37
-# The healing balm -these words impart	0:08:37	0:08:44
-# We shall rest	0:08:45	0:08:49
-# We shall rest	0:08:49	0:08:54
-# We shall rest	0:08:54	0:08:59
-# We shall rest in heaven	0:09:00	0:09:07
-# The name of loved ones -thither gone	0:09:14	0:09:19
-# Upon our hearts are graven	0:09:20	0:09:25
-# Who now from every trouble free	0:09:25	0:09:30
-# No pain, no cross, again shall see	0:09:30	0:09:38
-# To mar the praise	0:09:39	0:09:43
-# To mar the praise	0:09:44	0:09:48
-# To mar the praise	0:09:48	0:09:53
-# To mar the praise of heaven	0:09:54	0:10:02
-# When shall the vision -of that place	0:10:09	0:10:15
-# To this sad heart be given?	0:10:15	0:10:20
-# O God! my Father, Saviour, Friend!	0:10:21	0:10:27
-# An ear to this petition lend	0:10:27	0:10:36
-# Prepare my soul	0:10:36	0:10:41
-# Prepare my soul	0:10:41	0:10:46
-# Prepare my soul	0:10:46	0:10:52
-# Prepare my soul for heaven #	0:10:53	0:11:03
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-Subtitles - -Subtitles	0:11:17	0:11:19
-In 1948 and 1951...	0:11:35	0:11:37
-..the Blue Riband and T Osborne -Roberts Memorial Prize were created.	0:11:38	0:11:42
-These made singing competitions -more popular....	0:11:42	0:11:46
-..and saw the Eisteddfod divas -come into their own.	0:11:46	0:11:50
-We turn the clock back to 1964 -to the Brangwyn Hall...	0:11:50	0:11:55
-..when the Eisteddfod -visited Swansea.	0:11:55	0:11:58
-Margaret Jones Brynsiencyn won the -Osborne Roberts Memorial Prize...	0:11:59	0:12:04
-..and became the popular singer, -Margaret Williams.	0:12:04	0:12:07
-Winning in the large Eisteddfodau -is the aim of every competitor.	0:12:08	0:12:13
-The Blue Riband -has to be the pinnacle.	0:12:13	0:12:17
-How did you get into competing -and going to the Eisteddfod?	0:12:17	0:12:21
-It was the family.	0:12:21	0:12:23
-Just like many Welsh families, -singing was everything.	0:12:23	0:12:27
-I competed at local Eisteddfodau -over the years.	0:12:27	0:12:31
-I won my first under 18s prize -at the Anglesey Eisteddfod aged 13.	0:12:31	0:12:37
-Morgan Nicholas said that I should -continue and have vocal training.	0:12:37	0:12:43
-The training taught me -to sing properly...	0:12:43	0:12:47
-..which was so important -at Eisteddfodau.	0:12:48	0:12:51
-The money from each prize was put -towards lessons in the coming year.	0:12:51	0:12:56
-You must be so appreciative -of that period.	0:12:58	0:13:02
-Yes, I'm extremely grateful.	0:13:02	0:13:06
-If I hadn't competed in those small, -local Eisteddfodau...	0:13:06	0:13:10
-..then I don't know -what would have happened.	0:13:11	0:13:14
-What doors did it open for you -in your career?	0:13:16	0:13:19
-Oh, many doors.	0:13:19	0:13:21
-Meredydd Evans had been appointed...	0:13:22	0:13:24
-..as the Head -of Light Entertainment...	0:13:25	0:13:29
-..in Cardiff in 1964.	0:13:29	0:13:31
-I was certainly in the right place -at the right time.	0:13:31	0:13:35
-It opened doors...	0:13:35	0:13:37
-..in that everyone who follows the -Eisteddfod in Wales knows your name.	0:13:37	0:13:42
-It was a natural progression -to enter television...	0:13:43	0:13:47
-..so I was there right at the start.	0:13:47	0:13:50
-# Well, I might as well -tell you the truth as not	0:13:50	0:13:54
-# O kindest ever -on the face of the land #	0:13:54	0:14:01
-In those early days, -Meredydd Evans was very eager...	0:14:01	0:14:05
-..to get Welsh programmes or -series made in Wales on the network.	0:14:06	0:14:10
-He worked hard to get programmes -such as Music From The Castles...	0:14:10	0:14:15
-..Hob y Deri Dando -and Ryan a Ronnie.	0:14:15	0:14:18
-I either presented -or sang in those programmes.	0:14:18	0:14:22
-It opened doors for me.	0:14:22	0:14:25
-Since that time, S4C has come along -and provided work of all kinds.	0:14:25	0:14:31
-# We don't know about the love -that brightens the pure eyes	0:14:31	0:14:36
-# And you're still the one for her #	0:14:36	0:14:43
-I was lucky to sing in a concert at -the Theatre Royal in Drury Lane...	0:14:43	0:14:48
-..in front of Prince Charles.	0:14:49	0:14:51
-The best thing about that concert -was the other performers.	0:14:51	0:14:56
-There was Harry Secombe -and Sir John Mills was the host.	0:14:56	0:15:00
-Ronnie Corbett, -who we lost recently, stood near me.	0:15:00	0:15:04
-There were many names.	0:15:04	0:15:06
-The best thing -about being in this industry...	0:15:07	0:15:10
-..was meeting these people -who were so famous.	0:15:10	0:15:14
-Do you still feel the Eisteddfod is -a good foundation for young singers?	0:15:14	0:15:19
-The Eisteddfod is important -because you're given a critique.	0:15:19	0:15:25
-It helps you to advance...	0:15:25	0:15:27
-..and gives you something to work on -and improve for the future.	0:15:27	0:15:31
-Does the Eisteddfod have a future?	0:15:32	0:15:34
-I hope so.	0:15:35	0:15:36
-I can't imagine Wales -without its Eisteddfod.	0:15:36	0:15:41
-Who knows what could happen?	0:15:41	0:15:43
-Whilst we're on this land, -the Eisteddfod will continue...	0:15:43	0:15:48
-..and singers -will still be delighted to win.	0:15:48	0:15:51
-Thirty years after Margaret Williams -won in Swansea...	0:16:00	0:16:03
-..Rhian Williams won the -Osborne Roberts Memorial Prize...	0:16:04	0:16:08
-..at the Neath National Eisteddfod -in 1994.	0:16:08	0:16:11
-She won it again -at the Bala Eisteddfod in 1997.	0:16:12	0:16:16
-She's the only woman -to have achieved this feat twice.	0:16:17	0:16:20
-# The purest and fairest -to ever exist #	0:16:21	0:16:26
-It was my ambition.	0:16:27	0:16:28
-Everyone under 25 who enters -competitions works towards it.	0:16:29	0:16:33
-It was the pinnacle of -my Eisteddfod career to that point.	0:16:34	0:16:39
-What was your ambition -as a young singer?	0:16:39	0:16:43
-I had this idea -of singing professionally.	0:16:43	0:16:47
-I sang with -the Welsh National Opera Chorus...	0:16:48	0:16:52
-..and got a taster of touring -and rehearsing.	0:16:53	0:16:57
-I realized that it wasn't for me...	0:16:58	0:17:01
-..because I'm the sort of person who -likes to know what is coming next.	0:17:02	0:17:07
-It's great that I can still sing -whilst also working.	0:17:07	0:17:12
-It's thanks to winning the -Osborne Roberts Memorial Prizes...	0:17:12	0:17:18
-..that I've appeared on Noson Lawen -and Dechrau Canu Dechrau Canmol.	0:17:18	0:17:23
-Soon after -the Osborne Roberts...	0:17:23	0:17:27
-..I appeared -on Margaret Williams' series...	0:17:27	0:17:30
-..which was one -of my biggest ambitions.	0:17:30	0:17:33
-I still remember it.	0:17:33	0:17:35
-# You are a thousand times -more beautiful than the white rose	0:17:37	0:17:43
-# Or the red rose -on the brow of the hill	0:17:43	0:17:49
-# Or the proud swan -swimming the lake	0:17:49	0:17:56
-# My little baby #	0:17:56	0:18:02
-You now work -with the Harlequin Agency.	0:18:03	0:18:07
-Is it important for singers...	0:18:07	0:18:09
-..to be looked after by someone -who knows the drill?	0:18:09	0:18:13
-An agent needs to be able to market -their singers.	0:18:14	0:18:17
-It's important -to know the singer well...	0:18:17	0:18:21
-..and be able to sympathize and -understand a professional career.	0:18:21	0:18:27
-That's what you need.	0:18:27	0:18:29
-You represent an array of artists.	0:18:30	0:18:32
-Is it important for them -to experience competitions?	0:18:32	0:18:36
-The experience of competing -is very valuable.	0:18:37	0:18:40
-The Welsh are lucky in that we are -raised from a very young age...	0:18:41	0:18:47
-..to be comfortable on stage.	0:18:47	0:18:49
-It gives us solid groundings -and is an excellent experience.	0:18:50	0:18:55
-Eisteddfodau are valuable to most -who have gone through the system.	0:18:55	0:19:01
-The Harlequin Agency -represents a number of singers...	0:19:05	0:19:10
-..including the great -Eisteddfod divas, Shan Cothi.	0:19:10	0:19:14
-She's at the BBC in Cardiff -presenting her radio show.	0:19:14	0:19:18
-I've come to meet her.	0:19:18	0:19:21
-Shan's career has taken her to all -the stages in Wales, the West End...	0:19:21	0:19:26
-..the small screen and radio.	0:19:26	0:19:28
-Her turning point was winning the -Blue Riband at the 1995 Eisteddfod.	0:19:29	0:19:33
-She left her role as a music teacher -to become a singer.	0:19:33	0:19:37
-I'm glad I had those years -of teaching.	0:19:37	0:19:40
-I loved music, teaching the piano -and singing at Eisteddfodau...	0:19:40	0:19:46
-..but I grew in confidence -during those years of teaching.	0:19:46	0:19:52
-I was a very shy child.	0:19:52	0:19:54
-You'd never tell!	0:19:54	0:19:55
-People don't believe me -when I say that.	0:19:56	0:19:58
-I remember running down the corridor -at school in Lampeter...	0:19:59	0:20:03
-..as I was terrified about singing -in the school Eisteddfod.	0:20:03	0:20:07
-But I sang in the Sixth Form -with friends in the group, Cwlwm.	0:20:07	0:20:12
-That's where it started.	0:20:12	0:20:14
-# Over the sea	0:20:14	0:20:17
-# Over the sea	0:20:17	0:20:19
-# Are my sighs #	0:20:19	0:20:24
-I always loved singing...	0:20:24	0:20:26
-..but if you asked if I dreamt -of singing professionally...	0:20:26	0:20:30
-..then I would have said "No" as I -didn't think it was possible for me.	0:20:31	0:20:36
-# Who is in my thoughts -every minute #	0:20:36	0:20:45
-That was very romantic.	0:20:46	0:20:48
-The wonderful Placido Domingo -with En Aranjuez Con Tu Amor.	0:20:48	0:20:52
-Why didn't you follow a career -as an opera singing?	0:20:53	0:20:58
-I got a taster of it -when I taught at Ystalyfera.	0:20:58	0:21:02
-I did an opera season -at Craig-y-Nos...	0:21:02	0:21:05
-..but followed a different path -with The Phantom of the Opera.	0:21:05	0:21:10
-I didn't realize there was -another world in musicals.	0:21:10	0:21:13
-It's odd the doors -that opened for me.	0:21:14	0:21:17
-# Say you want me with you, -here beside you	0:21:17	0:21:24
-# Anywhere you go, -let me go too... #	0:21:24	0:21:31
-You've had many experiences -in your career.	0:21:32	0:21:35
-Is there one moment -that stands out from the rest?	0:21:35	0:21:38
-There are many!	0:21:38	0:21:40
-There's the opening night of Phantom -with my friends and parents...	0:21:40	0:21:45
-..winning the Blue Riband in 1995 -at the Abergele Eisteddfod...	0:21:45	0:21:50
-..and the first Faenol Festival.	0:21:50	0:21:53
-I was in Phantom but got to sing -with Bryn Terfel and Michael Ball.	0:21:53	0:21:58
-I'm grateful -for such a varied career.	0:21:59	0:22:01
-# L'amour	0:22:01	0:22:05
-# L'amour #	0:22:05	0:22:07
-The Welsh don't realize the amount -of stage experience that we have.	0:22:07	0:22:13
-When you study singing in college...	0:22:14	0:22:17
-..many students haven't set foot on -a stage in front of an audience...	0:22:17	0:22:22
-..not to mention television -and radio.	0:22:22	0:22:25
-Those things go hand-in-hand.	0:22:25	0:22:27
-# Je t'aime #	0:22:27	0:22:30
-The Eisteddfod -has been incredible to me.	0:22:30	0:22:33
-I'm so grateful to be invited back -to perform on the Eisteddfod stage.	0:22:34	0:22:39
-I enjoy every opportunity I get...	0:22:39	0:22:42
-..to entertain audiences -in Wales and beyond.	0:22:42	0:22:46
-Thanks to the National Eisteddfod.	0:22:46	0:22:48
-# Si je taime	0:22:48	0:22:50
-# Prends garde a toi #	0:22:50	0:22:55
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-Subtitles	0:23:03	0:23:03
-Subtitles - -Subtitles	0:23:03	0:23:05
-The term, diva, -refers to an opera singer.	0:23:23	0:23:26
-Many Eisteddfod divas -have stepped into this field.	0:23:26	0:23:31
-The Millennium Centre -is the home of opera in Wales.	0:23:31	0:23:35
-Carlo Rizzi is often linked -with the Welsh National Opera.	0:23:36	0:23:41
-The Italian-born conductor became -its musical director in 1992...	0:23:41	0:23:46
-..and held the position -for the best part of 15 years.	0:23:46	0:23:50
-Carlo Rizzi tours the world -but still lives in Wales...	0:23:50	0:23:54
-..and thinks highly of our culture.	0:23:54	0:23:58
-Hello, how are you?	0:23:59	0:24:00
-Hello, how are you? - -Come stai?	0:24:00	0:24:02
-Oh, bene.	0:24:02	0:24:04
-I really enjoy working -with Welsh singers.	0:24:04	0:24:07
-I think it's important -to help them...	0:24:07	0:24:12
-..and support them in their work.	0:24:12	0:24:18
-Do Welsh singers -differ from other singers?	0:24:18	0:24:23
-I think the Welsh language -is very important...	0:24:23	0:24:29
-..because there's a Welsh accent -in the Welsh language.	0:24:29	0:24:34
-It's more musical...	0:24:34	0:24:37
-..and much clearer -than the English language.	0:24:38	0:24:41
-This means that Welsh singers -find it easier...	0:24:41	0:24:45
-..to sing in other languages -such as Italian.	0:24:45	0:24:50
-The Welsh National Opera...	0:24:51	0:24:54
-..is performing Cavalleria -Rusticana & Pagliacci.	0:24:54	0:24:58
-The cast is made up -of a lot of Welsh singers.	0:24:58	0:25:02
-Would the Welsh singing scene -be different...	0:25:02	0:25:05
-..if we didn't have the Eisteddfod?	0:25:06	0:25:09
-I think the Eisteddfod -is more important for singers.	0:25:09	0:25:15
-Teachers do an incredible job -in the schools...	0:25:15	0:25:21
-..to prepare the children -for performances...	0:25:21	0:25:25
-..and not just in singing -but in dancing and the arts too.	0:25:25	0:25:29
-I think that the people of Wales...	0:25:29	0:25:33
-..should be very proud -of the National Eisteddfod.	0:25:34	0:25:38
-Leah-Marian Jones has performed many -times with the Welsh National Opera.	0:25:40	0:25:46
-At the Rhyl National Eisteddfod -in 1985...	0:25:46	0:25:49
-..she won -the Towyn Roberts Scholarship.	0:25:50	0:25:53
-It helped her to follow -a professional career.	0:25:53	0:25:57
-She spent eight years at the Royal -Opera House in Covent Garden...	0:25:58	0:26:03
-..and played over 30 roles, -which is quite a feat.	0:26:03	0:26:07
-Today, she combines opera -with concerts and teaching...	0:26:10	0:26:13
-..and is a judge for the Eisteddfod.	0:26:14	0:26:16
-What's the highlight of her career?	0:26:16	0:26:19
-It's being accepted into the -Royal Opera House in Covent Garden.	0:26:19	0:26:23
-I could sing the low parts -and high parts.	0:26:24	0:26:27
-I got the high roles and low roles -so it was ideal for me.	0:26:27	0:26:33
-It meant that I wasn't stuck -either singing Mozart or Rossini.	0:26:33	0:26:38
-I remember getting that contract -and walking through the stage door.	0:26:38	0:26:44
-I felt seven-foot-tall -and fantastic.	0:26:44	0:26:48
-How did you get into opera?	0:26:48	0:26:50
-Why choose opera?	0:26:50	0:26:53
-I was a very shy child -for many years...	0:26:53	0:26:56
-..but enjoyed wearing costumes -and being told what to do.	0:26:56	0:27:01
-The stupider it was, the better!	0:27:01	0:27:04
-That's where it came from.	0:27:05	0:27:07
-Do you prefer an opera to concerts?	0:27:07	0:27:10
-Do you prefer an opera to concerts? - -Yes, I do.	0:27:10	0:27:12
-When you're in an opera, -you're forced to be someone else.	0:27:12	0:27:16
-You can hide but also learn things -about yourself.	0:27:17	0:27:20
-It also helps...	0:27:20	0:27:22
-..that you can express yourself -in such a massive way.	0:27:23	0:27:27
-I've found that it helps me in life.	0:27:28	0:27:30
-It's like a therapy.	0:27:31	0:27:32
-It's like a therapy. - -Yes, it is a form of therapy.	0:27:32	0:27:34
-Do you enjoy being part of a team -when you're in an opera?	0:27:34	0:27:39
-I love being part of a team.	0:27:39	0:27:41
-You have six weeks of rehearsals -so you get to know all the cast.	0:27:42	0:27:46
-I remember one occasion -when Sir Tom Allen was singing.	0:27:47	0:27:50
-It was an opera by Rossini.	0:27:51	0:27:53
-There was a pause -and he would do a cadenza.	0:27:53	0:27:57
-The cadenza was different -every night.	0:27:57	0:28:00
-I'd do the same one every time -so I'd know I was doing it properly.	0:28:00	0:28:05
-It was my birthday and he sang, -"ah-ah-ah, ah-ah-ah, ah-ah-ah!"	0:28:05	0:28:10
-We were all in frozen poses -on the stage...	0:28:11	0:28:13
-..whilst he sang Happy Birthday!	0:28:14	0:28:16
-I was dying to laugh.	0:28:17	0:28:18
-I couldn't do anything until -I turned away from the audience.	0:28:19	0:28:23
-Those are the sort of fun things -that you wouldn't get in a concert.	0:28:24	0:28:29
-I like it when things go wrong too.	0:28:29	0:28:32
-I remember having -to leave the stage one night...	0:28:32	0:28:36
-..to go to the wings to The Book!	0:28:36	0:28:38
-I had to ask to see my lines -before going back onstage.	0:28:39	0:28:42
-Nobody knew where I was going.	0:28:43	0:28:45
-What can you do -when your mind goes blank?	0:28:45	0:28:48
-# Speaking of love	0:28:48	0:28:51
-# Speaking of love forces on me -a desire I cannot restrain	0:28:51	0:28:55
-# Speaking of love	0:28:55	0:28:57
-# Speaking of love forces on me -a desire I cannot restrain	0:28:57	0:29:03
-# I no longer know what I am, -what I do	0:29:03	0:29:06
-# Now I'm all fire, now all ice	0:29:06	0:29:08
-# Every woman changes my temperature	0:29:08	0:29:11
-# Every woman -makes my heart beat faster	0:29:11	0:29:14
-# Every woman -makes my heart beat faster	0:29:14	0:29:17
-# Every woman -makes my heart beat faster #	0:29:17	0:29:21
-We bought this house in Sussex.	0:29:21	0:29:24
-It needed an extension to make room -for a piano but we bought it anyway.	0:29:25	0:29:29
-I got a phone call -from Andrew O'Neill.	0:29:30	0:29:34
-He was with S4C at the time and -asked if I wanted to make a series.	0:29:34	0:29:39
-I said, "Yes, great!"	0:29:39	0:29:40
-The series helped me to pay for -the foundations of the extension.	0:29:41	0:29:46
-A year later, we had to work -on the interior of the extension.	0:29:46	0:29:51
-It had been built -but needed plastering.	0:29:51	0:29:54
-I had that same phone call -a year later.	0:29:54	0:29:57
-I was asked to make another -six programmes which was great.	0:29:57	0:30:01
-It paid for all the plastering!	0:30:01	0:30:03
-# And the waterfalls are smiling	0:30:06	0:30:08
-# As they hear the song #	0:30:08	0:30:14
-APPLAUSE	0:30:14	0:30:16
-# Make you so rash again! #	0:30:17	0:30:21
-Another Eisteddfod diva -who has entered the opera world...	0:30:21	0:30:25
-..is Eldrydd Cynan Jones.	0:30:25	0:30:27
-She won the Towyn Roberts -Scholarship at Mold in 1991.	0:30:27	0:30:32
-What opportunities -did this give Eldrydd?	0:30:32	0:30:35
-I turned professional -after winning the competition.	0:30:35	0:30:39
-It led to -the Cardiff Singer of the World...	0:30:39	0:30:44
-..and Young Welsh Singer -of the Year.	0:30:44	0:30:47
-I got to work -with different companies.	0:30:47	0:30:50
-In 1994, Eldrydd won the -Young Welsh Singer of the Year...	0:30:50	0:30:55
-..and got to represent Wales...	0:30:55	0:30:58
-..in the Cardiff Singer of the World -in 1995.	0:30:58	0:31:01
-It was a wonderful experience.	0:31:01	0:31:04
-# Prima di quest'aurora	0:31:04	0:31:07
-# Io chiudo stanca... #	0:31:07	0:31:12
-There was a lot more pressure with -the Cardiff Singer of the World.	0:31:12	0:31:17
-It's difficult -to represent your country...	0:31:18	0:31:21
-..when the competition -is held in that country...	0:31:22	0:31:25
-..and you're following -in the footsteps of Bryn Terfel!	0:31:25	0:31:29
-She lives in Rhosllannerchrugog with -her husband, the tenor Geraint Dodd.	0:31:29	0:31:34
-Fate brings them together.	0:31:34	0:31:36
-We've been lucky enough -to perform a lot together.	0:31:37	0:31:40
-I remember when Geraint was -in Madame Butterfly in Singapore.	0:31:40	0:31:45
-I was meant to go there -for the final fortnight...	0:31:46	0:31:49
-..so I could do -a little bit of shopping.	0:31:50	0:31:53
-I was only there for two days...	0:31:53	0:31:55
-..before the company called me and -asked me to sing from the wings...	0:31:55	0:32:00
-..because the soprano was ill.	0:32:01	0:32:03
-We weren't together onstage -but were singing together.	0:32:03	0:32:07
-But is the -Eisteddfod stage important?	0:32:08	0:32:11
-I think the Welsh -are natural-born performers.	0:32:11	0:32:15
-It starts when we're children -and competing in Eisteddfodau.	0:32:15	0:32:20
-Everyone knows that the Welsh -are excellent singers.	0:32:21	0:32:24
-I feel that we're performers...	0:32:25	0:32:27
-..who enjoy sharing our singing -and language with the world.	0:32:27	0:32:32
-I was a judge for the Blue Riband -at the Barry National Eisteddfod...	0:32:32	0:32:37
-..but I'd love to judge -the Towyn Roberts Scholarship.	0:32:38	0:32:42
-There's no better way -to promote that competition...	0:32:42	0:32:46
-..than to have -a former winner as a judge...	0:32:47	0:32:49
-..who is still -a professional singer.	0:32:50	0:32:53
-That person -can talk to the competitors...	0:32:54	0:32:57
-..about the importance -of the scholarship.	0:32:57	0:33:00
-It takes many years -to succeed in the world of opera.	0:33:07	0:33:11
-The young singer, Rhian Lois -has her career ahead of her.	0:33:12	0:33:16
-# Seraphim and cherubim... #	0:33:16	0:33:21
-At the National Eisteddfod -in Swansea in 2006...	0:33:22	0:33:25
-..Rhian won -the Osborne Roberts Memorial Prize.	0:33:25	0:33:28
-Those ten years after her victory -have been exciting.	0:33:29	0:33:32
-I think I fell into the opera world -by pure accident.	0:33:33	0:33:38
-When I was younger, -I wanted to sing in musicals.	0:33:38	0:33:43
-I went to the Royal Welsh College -of Music and Drama in Cardiff...	0:33:43	0:33:48
-..and my voice developed -into a classical soprano voice.	0:33:48	0:33:53
-That's how I fell into it.	0:33:53	0:33:55
-I liked this opera business...	0:33:55	0:33:57
-..so went to watch operas -by the Welsh National Opera.	0:33:57	0:34:01
-I'd go to shows -and dress rehearsals...	0:34:01	0:34:05
-..and realized that opera -had so much to offer a person.	0:34:05	0:34:09
-# Cio che non e piacer #	0:34:10	0:34:13
-Some people think opera is elitist -and only for the very wealthy...	0:34:13	0:34:18
-..but that isn't true.	0:34:18	0:34:20
-It's theatre and conjures up -an array of emotions.	0:34:21	0:34:24
-It can touch a person -like no other medium.	0:34:25	0:34:29
-# Godiamo... #	0:34:30	0:34:31
-Rhian is still young but -starting to get operatic roles.	0:34:32	0:34:36
-What about her experiences to date?	0:34:36	0:34:39
-I'll never forget my debut -with the English National Opera...	0:34:40	0:34:44
-..and my debut at the Royal -Opera House in Covent Garden...	0:34:45	0:34:49
-..in The Magic Flute.	0:34:49	0:34:50
-As a young singer, -that was my highlight.	0:34:50	0:34:54
-That's the pinnacle -for any operatic singer.	0:34:54	0:34:58
-# Dearest Mother and Fatherland... #	0:34:59	0:35:01
-It's a totally unique experience -to be on the stage.	0:35:02	0:35:06
-It's amazing and I wouldn't want to -do anything else because I love it.	0:35:06	0:35:12
-# To fill, to fill my heart #	0:35:12	0:35:16
-This is how my time has been spent.	0:35:16	0:35:20
-At 19, I sang Zerlina and won -the Osborne Roberts Memorial Prize.	0:35:20	0:35:25
-I'm now playing the whole role -in America.	0:35:25	0:35:28
-It's just totally amazing!	0:35:28	0:35:32
-# Dearest Land! #	0:35:32	0:35:41
-.	0:35:48	0:35:49
-Subtitles	0:35:52	0:35:52
-Subtitles - -Subtitles	0:35:52	0:35:54
-The National Eisteddfod -has visited Cardiff six times...	0:36:09	0:36:13
-..but for one diva...	0:36:13	0:36:15
-..the 1978 National Eisteddfod -was the pinnacle of her career.	0:36:15	0:36:21
-During the 1970s...	0:36:21	0:36:25
-..Marian Roberts was a regular -on the National Eisteddfod stage.	0:36:25	0:36:30
-She won the soprano competition -eight consecutive times...	0:36:30	0:36:34
-..before winning the Blue Riband -in Cardiff in 1978.	0:36:34	0:36:39
-Marion and her husband settled on -a Brynsiencyn farm and had a family.	0:36:40	0:36:45
-She still sings and the Eisteddfod -is close to her heart.	0:36:45	0:36:49
-How did Marian start singing?	0:36:49	0:36:52
-There was no television.	0:36:52	0:36:54
-The chapel was our -only means of entertainment...	0:36:55	0:36:59
-..with Sunday School events, -local Eisteddfodau...	0:36:59	0:37:04
-..and concerts in the village.	0:37:04	0:37:06
-I took part in the concerts -that were often on a Sunday night.	0:37:07	0:37:11
-Mam always heard someone complain -that the Bryngwran lot were back!	0:37:11	0:37:17
-# I know it's coming	0:37:17	0:37:20
-# The month of honey #	0:37:20	0:37:23
-I wanted to study music...	0:37:23	0:37:25
-..but left school and started -working in a shop in Llangefni.	0:37:25	0:37:29
-The Young Farmers -asked me to help them...	0:37:30	0:37:33
-..and compete at a Noson Lawen -in Aberystwyth.	0:37:34	0:37:38
-I went and sang a folk tune -and performed with the choir.	0:37:38	0:37:43
-There was a lad sitting behind me -making a lot of noise.	0:37:43	0:37:47
-I thought he was a real idiot!	0:37:48	0:37:50
-A short time after that...	0:37:50	0:37:53
-..I was taking a lot of letters -from my workplace to be posted.	0:37:53	0:37:57
-And there, stood outside -R R Jones Chemist in Llangefni...	0:37:58	0:38:02
-..with a plaster around his leg...	0:38:02	0:38:04
-..was that idiot!	0:38:04	0:38:06
-I stopped -and asked him what had happened.	0:38:06	0:38:09
-He'd broken his leg -whilst playing football.	0:38:09	0:38:13
-He said he'd get points -if I went out with him on Saturday.	0:38:13	0:38:17
-I did go and I've been with him -for 55 years!	0:38:17	0:38:20
-Yes, we're still together.	0:38:21	0:38:23
-# The brook of the mountain, -pure and bright #	0:38:23	0:38:26
-I wasn't ambitious and my marriage -and children were more important.	0:38:27	0:38:32
-Singing was something on the side.	0:38:32	0:38:34
-My husband enjoyed coming with me.	0:38:34	0:38:38
-On the way home -from the National Eisteddfod...	0:38:38	0:38:41
-..I'd collect the text -for the following year.	0:38:42	0:38:45
-After seeing it, I'd decide -to compete and that's what I did.	0:38:45	0:38:50
-I won every year -in the soprano competition.	0:38:51	0:38:55
-If someone wanted a soprano -for a concert...	0:38:55	0:38:58
-..they'd ask me, the Eisteddfod -winner, so I had a lot of concerts.	0:38:58	0:39:03
-I was very lucky...	0:39:04	0:39:05
-..because these wonderful choirs -started taking me with them...	0:39:05	0:39:10
-..to sing all over the world.	0:39:10	0:39:12
-I've been so lucky.	0:39:13	0:39:14
-I got to sing in America, -Canada, Australia, New Zealand...	0:39:14	0:39:20
-..Singapore and Hong Kong.	0:39:20	0:39:23
-I've sung everywhere -and even in Nigeria!	0:39:23	0:39:26
-I've had a lot of highlights -in my life...	0:39:27	0:39:30
-..but winning the Blue Riband -and getting a standing ovation...	0:39:31	0:39:36
-..with my family in the audience -is one of my greatest moments.	0:39:36	0:39:41
-# Every time it comes #	0:39:41	0:39:49
-Many young singers -want to come to London to study.	0:40:00	0:40:04
-Winning a competition just like -the Towyn Roberts Scholarship...	0:40:04	0:40:09
-..helps them cross the bridge...	0:40:09	0:40:11
-..and perform on world-famous stages -such as this one!	0:40:12	0:40:16
-The Royal Albert Hall -is an iconic concert hall.	0:40:18	0:40:22
-In 2008, I was honoured to be part -of The Night of 1000 Voices.	0:40:22	0:40:28
-# You'll never walk	0:40:28	0:40:36
-# Alone #	0:40:37	0:40:45
-RAPTUOUS APPLAUSE	0:40:46	0:40:48
-The majority of Eisteddfod divas -remain in the classical world.	0:40:52	0:40:57
-Rebecca Trehearn has paved her way -to a successful career in musicals.	0:40:57	0:41:02
-She's currently appearing -in Show Boat in the West End.	0:41:02	0:41:06
-# He's just my Bill	0:41:06	0:41:10
-# An ordinary guy #	0:41:11	0:41:13
-Her West End experience...	0:41:14	0:41:16
-..means Rebecca is a regular -at the Eisteddfod concerts.	0:41:16	0:41:20
-She's grateful for the opportunities -that she's had in Wales.	0:41:20	0:41:25
-# So comfy and roomy -feels natural to me #	0:41:25	0:41:31
-I feel very fortunate -to have been raised in Wales.	0:41:31	0:41:36
-Singing with choirs plays a big part -in your school life.	0:41:36	0:41:40
-There was also Theatr Fach in Rhyl.	0:41:40	0:41:43
-It's a children's amateur group.	0:41:43	0:41:45
-I joined it when I was nine -and did it for years.	0:41:46	0:41:50
-It taught me the workings -of staging a show.	0:41:50	0:41:55
-I had so many opportunities -to perform...	0:41:55	0:41:58
-..and played Anne Frank -in The Diary of Anne Frank.	0:41:58	0:42:02
-I was very, very lucky.	0:42:02	0:42:04
-Did you always want to do musicals -or was opera ever an option?	0:42:05	0:42:09
-I wasn't really interested -in the classical world...	0:42:10	0:42:14
-..and never felt that I have -that kind of voice.	0:42:14	0:42:17
-I could never be an opera singer -even if I studied it...	0:42:18	0:42:22
-..but I've loved musicals -since I was a child.	0:42:22	0:42:26
-I enjoy the acting and dancing -as much as the singing.	0:42:26	0:42:31
-I can do all three at the same time -in musicals.	0:42:31	0:42:34
-# Wh-e-re	0:42:35	0:42:39
-# Wh-e-re is love? #	0:42:39	0:42:48
-Tell us about competing -in Wawffactor.	0:42:49	0:42:53
-It was very interesting.	0:42:53	0:42:55
-I was invited to compete -in the series...	0:42:55	0:42:59
-..and I just thought, "why not?"	0:42:59	0:43:02
-I never expected to reach the final.	0:43:03	0:43:05
-It gave me the chance -to sing pop music...	0:43:05	0:43:09
-..which I hadn't done -in my years at college...	0:43:09	0:43:13
-..and I just wanted to remind Wales -that I was still here!	0:43:13	0:43:17
-I'd been in London for three years -and hadn't worked in Wales.	0:43:17	0:43:22
-# Keeps Georgia on my mind	0:43:22	0:43:30
-# Oh-oh-oh-oh-oh-oh-oh-oh-oh	0:43:30	0:43:34
-# Just an old sweet song	0:43:35	0:43:37
-# An old sweet song	0:43:37	0:43:39
-# Keeps Georgia on my mind	0:43:40	0:43:45
-# Oh-oh-oh-oh-oh-oh	0:43:45	0:43:48
-# Oh-oh-oh-oh #	0:43:49	0:43:53
-What's been your highlight to date?	0:43:53	0:43:57
-Ghost was fantastic.	0:43:57	0:43:59
-I was the understudy in London -but took the lead for the tour.	0:43:59	0:44:04
-We opened in Cardiff -at the Millennium Centre.	0:44:04	0:44:08
-It was great to bring it home.	0:44:08	0:44:10
-Since then, I feel I've taken a step -up in terms of the roles I play.	0:44:10	0:44:16
-It's definitely a highlight.	0:44:16	0:44:18
-Does everyone at home support you?	0:44:18	0:44:21
-My family and friends are amazing -and I'm so lucky to have them.	0:44:21	0:44:26
-Rebecca's career is going -from strength to strength.	0:44:28	0:44:32
-What about those starting out?	0:44:32	0:44:34
-Meinir Wyn Roberts has won two -of the main Eisteddfod awards.	0:44:34	0:44:39
-She's currently studying at the -Royal Academy of Music in London.	0:44:39	0:44:43
-You were raised -on the Eisteddfod stage.	0:44:43	0:44:46
-Do you feel competing is important?	0:44:47	0:44:50
-It wasn't when I started singing -aged eight...	0:44:50	0:44:54
-..and I'd get through -to the county final.	0:44:54	0:44:57
-After that, I had singing lessons -and competed in the Eisteddfod.	0:44:58	0:45:02
-It wasn't until my GCSEs that -I realized I had a classical voice.	0:45:03	0:45:09
-Taking that route never -crossed my mind until that time.	0:45:09	0:45:13
-# I know it's coming	0:45:14	0:45:16
-# The month of honey #	0:45:17	0:45:19
-Does your experience of competing...	0:45:19	0:45:22
-..put you a step ahead of -the other students in the college?	0:45:22	0:45:26
-I firmly believe that it does.	0:45:26	0:45:29
-A lot of people -go to a music college...	0:45:29	0:45:32
-..and feel that -they have to be the best.	0:45:32	0:45:35
-If they're not the best, -they fall to pieces and can't cope.	0:45:35	0:45:40
-I had experience of coming second -a lot in the Eisteddfod...	0:45:41	0:45:46
-..so can shrug it off -and focus on doing better next time.	0:45:46	0:45:50
-It's a great thing to learn.	0:45:51	0:45:53
-Would you encourage young people -to compete?	0:45:53	0:45:57
-Yes, without a shadow of a doubt.	0:45:58	0:46:00
-The younger, the better.	0:46:00	0:46:03
-I've judged Eisteddfodau -at primary school level.	0:46:03	0:46:06
-There's so many of them -and they fear nothing.	0:46:07	0:46:10
-They sing and look to their mothers -for the words.	0:46:10	0:46:13
-Nothing fears them.	0:46:14	0:46:15
-It's brilliant if you can get that -at a young age.	0:46:15	0:46:20
-What route would you like to take -in your career?	0:46:21	0:46:24
-Where do you see yourself -in 20 years?	0:46:24	0:46:27
-I'm starting a course on opera soon.	0:46:27	0:46:30
-I'll do that for two years...	0:46:30	0:46:32
-..to gain experience -of building stamina in a character.	0:46:32	0:46:37
-Three minutes at an Eisteddfod -is different to a three-hour opera!	0:46:38	0:46:43
-I'd also like a family one day -but to still enjoy singing.	0:46:44	0:46:48
-# Ah, glissons en suivant	0:46:51	0:46:56
-# Le courant fuyant	0:46:56	0:47:01
-# Dans l'onde fremissante... #	0:47:01	0:47:03
-This is where I started -as a young diva...	0:47:03	0:47:06
-..so it's apt to close the programme -on the lawns of Tredegar House.	0:47:06	0:47:11
-I've spoken to many -former Eisteddfod divas...	0:47:11	0:47:14
-..and we all agree -that the Eisteddfod...	0:47:15	0:47:17
-..is the perfect start for those -who want a professional career.	0:47:18	0:47:22
-It's important that this unique -custom in Wales survives...	0:47:23	0:47:27
-..and that the Eisteddfod remains -a platform for our young singers...	0:47:28	0:47:32
-..to develop -into world-famous divas!	0:47:33	0:47:35
-# Ah! descendons	0:47:36	0:47:42
-# Ensemble! #	0:47:42	0:47:50
-S4C Subtitles by Tinopolis	0:47:51	0:47:53
-.	0:47:53	0:47:54

Difas yr Eisteddfod

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