Opera singer Sir Bryn Terfel is joining Classic FM to present a new four-week series focused on opera’s most notorious villains.
Sir Bryn Terfel will host Opera Villains with Bryn Terfel, beginning on Friday 9th January at 9pm on Classic FM and via Global Player. The programmes will also be available on catch-up for thirty days.
Across four hour-long episodes, Bryn explores the darker characters of the operatic stage, drawing on roles he has performed during his career. The series examines figures such as Scarpia, Don Giovanni and Sweeney Todd, looking at how the music shapes their personalities and why these characters continue to resonate with audiences.
The opening programme, The Ultimate Villains, features music from roles Bryn has played, including Sweeney Todd and Faust, and looks at what defines a true operatic antagonist. Later episodes question whether some characters deserve their reputation, with music from works including La traviata and L’elisir d’amore.
Bryn brings decades of experience to the series, having made his professional debut in 1990 with Welsh National Opera and gone on to perform at major opera houses and concert halls worldwide. He has released 15 solo albums and received several industry awards, including a Grammy and Classical BRIT. He is currently appearing at the Royal Opera House in Boris Godunov and Peter Grimes.
Speaking about the new series, Bryn said: “When I sing roles like Scarpia or Mephisto, I try to find the human side beneath the wickedness. That’s what makes them believable and so much fun to play.”
Classic FM Managing Editor Joseph Zubier said the series offers listeners a chance to hear one of opera’s best-known voices share insights into characters that are often misunderstood, while opening up the genre in an accessible way.