Monmouth’s Andrew Henley Crowned World’s Best Young Singer at Prestigious Eisteddfod

Formal trio at festival awards ceremony.

Andrew Henley Takes Center Stage as World’s Best Young Singer

In a remarkable achievement, Monmouth’s own tenor, Andrew Henley, has been named the world’s best young singer at the esteemed Pendine International Voice of the Future competition, part of the Llangollen International Eisteddfod. This prestigious accolade was presented to him by none other than Nicoletta Mantovani, the widow of the legendary opera icon Luciano Pavarotti.

A Dream Come True

For the 34-year-old Henley, this crowning moment represented the culmination of a lifelong dream. "It is one of the most unbelievable nights of my life," he shared after the event. Growing up, he idolized Pavarotti, often listening to his records and the famous Three Tenors albums at home. "To think that I have now performed at the same venue where he performed is amazing," Henley added, reflecting on the significance of the event.

The Performance That Captivated Judges

Henley’s path to victory was no easy feat. He outperformed several contestants, including a challenging sing-off against soprano Eiry Price from Pencaenewydd, Gwynedd. His set included stunning renditions of "Che Gelida Manina" from La Bohème, "Gebet" by Wolf, and "Love Went a-Riding" by Bridge. These performances captivated the judges, including Martin Fitzgerald, head of music at the English National Opera, and operatic soprano Sarah Tyn.

The Cultural Significance of the Event

The Llangollen International Eisteddfod holds a special place in the cultural calendar, attracting diverse talents from around the globe. It serves as a platform not only for competitive performances but also for celebrating cultural diversity through art. Henley’s victory serves as an inspiration, highlighting the importance of this event in fostering young talent in the arts.

As the Eisteddfod continues to showcase remarkable talents like Henley, it reflects the shared passion of communities uniting through the joy of music. The recognition that Henley has received is not just a personal triumph; it symbolizes the vibrant artistic spirit within the local community of Monmouth and beyond.

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Monmouth’s Andrew Henley Crowned World’s Best Young Singer at Prestigious Eisteddfod

Andrew Henley Takes Center Stage as World’s Best Young Singer

A Dream Come True

The Performance That Captivated Judges

The Cultural Significance of the Event

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