A CLASSICALLY trained opera singer has blasted reality talent shows for what he perceives as cheapening the music industry.

Operatic tenor, Andrew Amdur, of Henlys Corner, Finchley, claims audiences are being duped into a false understanding of what makes quality singing following the conclusion of the latest series of Britain's Got Talent.

He believes the judging panel on the hugely popular ITV show are not all qualified to determine what constitutes a classical star and instead offer an easy route to fame for mediocre musicians. Mr Amdur, who was trained by renowned Italian operatic tenor Carlo Bergonzi and has performed at venues across the world, said: “I admit Simon Cowell probably knows what he is talking about, but the other two on the panel I'm not sure about.

“At least with shows like Strictly Come Dancing the contestants are being judged by dancers.

“The real talent is not being given the right exposure and everyone is being swayed into these talent shows.

“It is a shame because the country is being fooled. I'm not criticising the people who go on these shows, because they are just trying to make something of themselves and I respect them for that.

“But these people are taking over the industry while the real talent is pushed to the sides.”

This year's talent in the final featured 14-year-old wannabe classical singer Liam McNally, powerful vocalist and great grandmother Janey Cutler, and aspiring opera star Christopher Stone.

Popular musical contestants in the past have included 2007 series winner and tenor Paul Potts and stage singer Susan Boyle.

But Mr Amdur said: “It seems that if you want to succeed in the music industry nowadays you must first go through the humiliation of these inane talent shows.

“Those who have studied the music all their lives can notice a massive difference with how their voices are coming across. Those with a professional ear instantly notice the difference between the quality of singers.

“For the public, it's like ordering a T-bone steak in a restaurant and being served rump.

“It is killing the real talent coming forward.”

But with millions of people watching each series of the show, supporters say it offers a spring board to success for people with real talent who may have struggled in the past.

And when asked if he would consider seeking the added exposure associated with entering the competition, Mr Amdur said: “I think I will sit on the fence with that one.”