This week our Only Boys Aloud Choir Leader Jess Robinson will perform as part of the BBC Cardiff Singer of the World Competition 2023.
We caught up with Jess ahead of her performances:
How have preparations for Cardiff Singer of the World been going?
“Preparations have been going well! It’s definitely been intense, especially during the last two weeks with learning and ensuring accuracy in all the different languages, language and vocal coaching, alongside my singing lessons. It’s been an extremely busy but positive experience.”
How long have you been singing and what inspired you to pursue this career?
“I started singing when I was around four years old. I started out performing at local eisteddfod and then the Urdd and went from there. I was lucky growing up as my grandmother’s best friend is a singer – she really took me under her wing. I went on to study at the Royal Welsh College of Music and Drama and the rest is history!”
What are you most looking forward to during Competition week?
“I’m really looking forward to meeting all the other contestants from across the world and seeing the mix of different personalities coming to Cardiff.
I’m a first language Welsh speaker so I’m especially looking forward to singing my Welsh repertoire during the Song Prize.”
How many new songs have you had to prepare?
“I knew four of the pieces going into the competition but have had to learn a further eighteen! It’s been quite full on!”
How do you feel before a performance? Do you have a competition day routine?
“Tea! I drink around 300 cups of tea – I find that it mentally calms me before a performance. I also listen to Beyoncé – I honestly feel like she gives me life and I can take on the world!”
What are your hopes for your career after the competition?
“Getting to this stage in the competition has been huge step for me and I’m extremely grateful to have reached this level in a competition I’ve followed over the years and wondered if I’d get there myself.
My future ambitions include working abroad – I would love to work in Germany!”
The team at The Aloud Charity would like to wish Jess a fantastic competition week. Find out more about how you can tune in to BBC Cardiff Singer of the World here.
