Katherine Jenkins

Katherine Jenkins
Name	Katherine Jenkins
Caption	Jenkins performing in 2014.
Background	solo_singer
Birth name	Katherine Maria Jenkins
Birth date	29 June 1980
Birth place	Neath, Wales
Genre	Classical crossover, operatic pop
Occupation	Singer, author
Years active	2003–present
Label	Decca, Warner Bros.
Website	katherinejenkins.co.uk

Katherine Jenkins is a Welsh mezzo-soprano renowned as one of the most successful artists in the classical crossover genre. Since her debut in 2003, she has achieved numerous chart-topping albums in the United Kingdom and performed for global audiences and dignitaries. Her career encompasses major record deals, extensive international tours, and significant philanthropic work, establishing her as a prominent cultural figure.

Early life and education

Born in Neath, she was raised in the nearby village of Tonna and demonstrated musical talent from a young age, singing in the local church choir. She received her formal vocal training at the Royal Academy of Music in London, where she studied under mezzo-soprano Jean Allister and graduated with honors. During her studies, she was a member of the BBC Welsh Chorus and worked as a model to support herself, winning the title of Welsh Model of the Year.

Career

Her professional breakthrough came in 2003 when she signed a record-breaking contract with Universal Music Group's Decca Records. Her debut album, Premiere, topped the UK Classical Chart and was followed by a series of chart-topping releases including Second Nature and Living a Dream. She has performed at prestigious venues such as The O₂ Arena, the Sydney Opera House, and for events including the Diamond Jubilee concert at Buckingham Palace. Notable collaborations include working with composers like Andrew Lloyd Webber, performing with Plácido Domingo at The Metropolitan Opera, and singing the official anthem for the 2014 Invictus Games.

Musical style and repertoire

Her repertoire is defined by its blend of operatic arias, sacred music, musical theatre standards, and popular songs, creating an accessible classical crossover sound. She frequently performs works by composers such as Puccini and Bizet, alongside interpretations of Lloyd Webber show tunes and Welsh hymns like Calon Lân. This eclectic mix has drawn comparisons to artists like Andrea Bocelli and Sarah Brightman, and has been featured in soundtracks for films and television series on networks like BBC One.

Public image and philanthropy

Recognized for her elegant public persona, she has served as an ambassador for the British Red Cross and is a supporter of the Royal British Legion. Her charitable efforts have included performing for troops in Afghanistan and Iraq, fundraising for Macmillan Cancer Support, and supporting the Prince's Trust. In 2014, she was appointed an Officer of the Order of the British Empire for services to music and charity, and she has been a prominent figure in events celebrating Welsh culture and national occasions like Remembrance Sunday.

Personal life

She married American film producer Andrew Levitas in 2014 at Hampton Court Palace, and the couple have two children. She has authored an autobiography, Time to Say Hello, and has been open about her health challenges, including undergoing surgery for a mastoidectomy. Residing between London and New York City, she maintains strong ties to Wales and is a devoted supporter of the Welsh rugby union team.

Discography and awards

Her extensive discography includes over a dozen studio albums, with several achieving multi-platinum status in the UK Albums Chart. Significant releases include Sacred Arias, Rejoice, and Home Sweet Home. Among her numerous accolades are two Classical BRIT Awards for Album of the Year, a Silver Clef Award, and the Classic FM Hall of Fame award. She also holds the record for the fastest-selling classical album of the century in the United Kingdom for her debut release.

Category:1980 births Category:Living people Category:Welsh mezzo-sopranos Category:Classical crossover singers Category:Officers of the Order of the British Empire