Popstar to Operastar

14 January 2010, 12:29

Roland Villazon was recently described as “the finest tenor of our time.”

The eight celebrity contestants will be receiving invaluable advice from a singer who is at the top of his game. 

Rolando first trained as a singer as a young boy. He is one of the most in-demand tenors in the world and his love for music precedes him. “Music is a wonderful gift. It may not change your life, but it will certainly open up your senses and connect you directly to the beating of your heart.”

The Mexican-born star is delighted to be involved with the project: “I’m really please to have the opportunity to tell a very wide audience what opera is all about.

“Singing opera is something that brings not only joy, but a special understanding of your inner life; listening to this music can have the same effect and I want everyone to know that!”

Speaking of follow mentor Katherine Jenkins, Villazon said: “She is a beautiful performer, she’s a lovely person, and she has been giving the pop singer some good advice.”

The 37-year-old believes that the show will open opera up to a whole new audience. “Working on opera technique with pop singers who then perform on live TV will send the message to the viewers that – although not necessarily to a professional level – ‘you could also do this yourself’. So don’t be afraid of the wonderful world of singing.”

Last updated: 15 January 2010, 16:16