If you have a recital to do, you have to memorize the songs. I never use music when I do recitals. It produces an instant barrier, both for yourself and the audience.

People think top singers are overpaid, but opera houses have a top fee, which is a good thing. Of course concerts are different- everyone wants to make as much money as possible.

For the mountains shall depart

For three years, the 'Meistersinger' score was a ball and chain to me. It went with me to every city and concert hall.

I started singing because I come from Wales

I enjoy all aspects of singing and I'm luckily given the choice to be part of different styles of music.

Good acting is about being as natural and calm as possible. These days producers have such definite ideas that you have to be prepared to do whatever they ask.