On Saturday, soprano Jessica Robinson will perform on stage, realizing a lifelong dream.
The Pembrokeshire singer will represent Wales at the 40th anniversary of Cardiff Singer of the World.
I have been watching this competition for years and have always thought, "Oh wow. It will be both a dream come true and a terrifying moment. ".
In the eight-day competition, which is a major event on the classical music calendar, Jessica is one of 16 singers.
Sir Bryn Terfel, who performed at the King's Coronation last month, was among those whose careers Cardiff Singer of the World helped launch. The organization was founded in 1983.
Jessica, a native of Llandissilio, said having a close-knit, encouraging farming family kept her grounded.
"Last week, I mentioned feeling the pressure in a conversation with my father. Come on now, mush, it's just singing, what's the worst that can happen? You get kicked out of Wales, he said. ".
Although Jessica currently resides in Cardiff, members of her immediate and extended families as well as friends will fly in to watch her compete on Saturday.
Jessica will perform two Welsh songs from her repertoire, one of which, Y Deryn Pur, was composed by her opera coach Michael Pollock.
She predicted that performing it and hopefully doing it justice would be a very special moment.
Llr Williams of Wrexham, a pianist, must learn and perform about 40 different pieces for the singers, which is a huge challenge.
There are singers from all over the world who perform songs in their native tongues, he said, so it's possible to learn Chinese or Korean music. There is always something new to learn.
"When it does, it's one of the best parts of my year. ".
The competition has a long history of identifying and fostering talent of the highest caliber, and we are eager to see what this year's competition will bring, according to Cardiff Singer of the World artistic director David Jackson. ".
There are singers competing this year from Canada, China, South Korea, South Africa, and Ukraine, and Sir Brian McMaster, who served on the original jury in 1983, will serve on the jury.
Performances open to the public will take place at St David's Hall and the Royal Welsh College of Music andamp; Drama and the BBC will also broadcast the competition.
