Monmouth tenor Andrew Henley named world's best young singer
He received the award from Nicoletta Mantovani, widow of the legendary opera singer Luciano Pavarotti.
Mr Henley said: "It is one of the most unbelievable nights of my life.
"I was so thrilled to be presented with the trophy by Nicoletta.
"I grew up listening to Pavarotti.
"His records and the Three Tenors albums were always on in our house.
"He was my absolute hero.
"To think that I have now performed at the same venue where he performed is amazing.
"This is my first time at Llangollen Eisteddfod and it has been such a joyous occasion."
Mr Henley won following a sing-off against soprano Eiry Price from Pencaenewydd, Gwynedd.
He performed Che Gelida Manina from La Bohème, Gebet by Wolf, and Love Went a-Riding by Bridge.
The judges, Martin Fitzgerald, head of music at the English National Opera, and operatic soprano Sarah Tynan, praised both finalists and described the decision as a difficult one.
Sir Bryn Terfel said he was hugely impressed by both finalists (Image: Rick Matthews) The competition was sponsored by the Pendine Park care organisation through the Pendine Arts and Community Trust.
Nicoletta Mantovani paid tribute to sponsors Mario and Gill Kreft and the Eisteddfod's mission.
She said: "Culture cannot exist without angels and I'm so pleased that here you have such special friends in Mario and Gill Kreft, they are among the Eisteddfod's angels, who know how culture can unify people from so many different communities and cultures."
Mario Kreft said: "He will always be a part of this Eisteddfod, he had a genuine affection for the festival and for the Llangollen community as a whole."
Sir Bryn Terfel, who returned to the main stage at Llangollen that evening, also praised the young performers.
He said: "I was backstage watching them and hugely impressed by both.
"It was a closely fought contest and it is refreshing to think we have such great young opera talent coming through."
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