Welsh opera legend plans to retire (From Haringey Independent)

Welsh opera legend plans to retire

6:13am Friday 12th September 2008

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Welsh singing legend Bryn Terfel is planning to bow out while still at the top and retire within three years.

The opera singer, 42, believes his voice has never been in better shape but he is anxious to walk away with his reputation as a performer intact.

The unexpected announcement will be greeted with dismay by Terfel's legion of fans around the world.

It came during an interview with The Daily Telegraph prior to his performance at the Last Night of the Proms, at the Royal Albert Hall, on Saturday.

Speaking at his home in Caernarfon, north Wales, Terfel reminisces about the last time he performed at the celebrated event, 14 years ago.

Dressed in a Welsh rugby jersey he sang Rule Britannia to acclaim for the first time and admits he was so nervous "I nearly escaped through the back door".

He also speaks with pleasure about duets he has done with the likes of Tom Jones, Shirley Bassey and Ronan Keating.

Asked about his slowing pace of performances in recent years he reveals his plan has always been to step back from the limelight in his mid 40s.

"This is the best time for the voice because you've got everything else under guard," he said.

"Whereas in the beginning of my career I complained to directors and was negative, now I've learnt that being a little bit more cautious and taking a back seat is much less chaotic for the voice."

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