The Easter Sunday performance of Andrea Bocelli singing solo from the Duomo in Milan has earned more than 33 million views, making it the largest live-streamed classical music event of all time.
During the 25-minute performance, which streamed live via YouTube (watch below), Bocelli, 61, was joined only by organist Emanuele Vianelli. His “Music for Hope” selections included “Ave Maria” and “Panis Angelicus.” But the most poignant and searing moment came with the closing “Amazing Grace,” during which Bocelli stood outside on the steps of the cathedral, facing the deserted piazza.
The audio recording of Bocelli’s performance is also available on streaming services.
In a statement, the Italian tenor, completely blind since the age of 12, shared his reaction to the strong reception of his performance.
"For an artist, (Sunday's) event is the reason for the sacrifices of a lifetime; for a believer and a Catholic as I am, it was further confirmation of the benevolent smile with which the Heavenly Father looks to his children. It was an immeasurable honour and privilege to lend my voice to the prayers of millions of people, gathered in a single embrace - a small, great miracle of which the whole world was the protagonist and which confirms my optimism about the future of our planet. Thanks to everyone who worked in the shadows for weeks, from management to the record label, and especially to all of those who have shared this moment with us, to stay truly united."
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