Renowned bass-baritone Bryn Terfel, 59, who hails from the picturesque region of north Wales, made his striking debut with the Welsh National Opera back in 1990. Over the years, he has built an impressive, award-winning discography that beautifully intertwines the realms of opera, musical theatre, and traditional Welsh songs. Honored with a knighthood in 2017, Terfel notably performed at the coronation of King Charles III last year, solidifying his status in the arts. This December, from the 16th to the 20th, he will grace stages for Bryn’s Christmas, captivating audiences in London, Swansea, Manchester, and Bristol. Proud father of five, he shares his life with his second wife, Hannah Stone, a talented harpist, in the scenic countryside of south Wales.
What is your greatest fear?
I’ve been a strong advocate that all my five children should be great swimmers, so you can deduce what my fear is.
What is the trait you most deplore in yourself?
Thinking that singing makes me fit.
What is the trait you most deplore in others?
Unfriendliness.
What was your most embarrassing moment?
One horrible afternoon in Chicago when I forgot my words in The Marriage of Figaro, in a role I’d sung hundreds of times.
Describe yourself in three words
Collegial, kind and stubborn.
What do you most dislike about your appearance?
When I was three, I was bitten by a dog right between my eyes. Underneath that scar, there’s a nose that’s been hit multiple times on the rugby field.
Who is your celebrity crush?
Dame Emma Thompson.
What is the worst thing anyone’s said to you?
“You’re a wonderful musician but a terrible friend.” It was Daniel Barenboim, the famous conductor, because I didn’t have time in the calendar to work with him.
What is your guiltiest pleasure?
Cigars.
What does love feel like?
Full of passion and laughter.
If you could edit your past, what would you change?
That moment in Bilbao in 2020, when I tried to cross the street and did a pirouette and suffered a dreadful break in my right leg, which means now I have 10 screws and a band in it.
If not yourself, who would you most like to be?
Frank Sinatra. I’d love to be able to sing in his style.
What is the closest you’ve come to death?
In 2006, I went fishing for red snapper in the Gulf of Mexico. On the way back, one of the engines caught fire and then we had one engine for 70 miles. Slowly but surely, we got to Baton Rouge in the darkness but then got very close to a very large passing ship – they didn’t see us and we didn’t see them.
What do you consider your greatest achievement?
I loved my 1 minute 40 seconds singing at the coronation of King Charles. I was the most nervous I’ve been.
What happens when we die?
I’ll join the choir.
What has been the most memorable performance in Bryn Terfel’s career and why?
**Interview with Bryn Terfel: Celebrating a Legendary Career and Upcoming Performance**
*Interviewer:* Bryn, thank you for joining us today. You’ve had such an illustrious career since your debut with the Welsh National Opera in 1990. What do you think has been the most rewarding aspect of your journey in music?
*Bryn Terfel:* Thank you for having me! I think the most rewarding aspect has been connecting with audiences through the diverse music I perform—whether it’s opera, musical theater, or traditional Welsh songs. Every performance brings a new experience and the joy of sharing my passion with others is what keeps me going.
*Interviewer:* You were knighted in 2017, and you sang at the coronation of King Charles III last year. How do those moments shape your perspective on your career?
*Bryn Terfel:* Being honored in such ways is incredibly humbling. It reaffirms the value of my work and encourages me to continue pushing boundaries. Performing at the coronation was a highlight of my career—it’s not every day you get to be a part of history in such a significant way.
*Interviewer:* You’re gearing up for “Bryn’s Christmas” in December. Can you tell us what audiences can expect and what inspired this event?
*Bryn Terfel:* ”Bryn’s Christmas” is a celebration of the festive season through music that resonates with everyone. Expect a blend of traditional carols, some of my favorite classical pieces, and a few surprises as well! The inspiration comes from my love for Christmas and the joy of family traditions—something I cherish deeply as a proud father of five.
*Interviewer:* Speaking of family, you’ve mentioned that you are an advocate for your children to be great swimmers. What drives that passion?
*Bryn Terfel:* Ah, yes! My greatest fear is not knowing how to swim well, which is why I emphasize it with my kids. Being in the water can be both beautiful and dangerous, and I want them to enjoy it safely. It’s a life skill that offers confidence and safety.
*Interviewer:* You’ve also shared some personal insights, such as your most embarrassing moment on stage. How do you cope with the pressures and challenges of performing live?
*Bryn Terfel:* It’s tough, but I try to remember that everyone makes mistakes, even in the most polished performances. That incident in Chicago, forgetting my words in *The Marriage of Figaro*, was a hard lesson. But those moments remind me of the importance of preparation and resilience.
*Interviewer:* Lastly, if you had to describe yourself in three words, what would they be?
*Bryn Terfel:* I’d say collegial, kind, and stubborn. I value teamwork in music, care deeply about connections, and when I believe in something, I stand my ground!
*Interviewer:* Thank you, Bryn! We can’t wait to see you perform this December. It’s always a pleasure to hear from such a talented artist.
*Bryn Terfel:* Thank you! I’m looking forward to performing and spreading some holiday cheer.
