As one of the greatest classical singers of our time, Andrea Bocelli’s solo concert took place in the stunning Duomo Cathedral of Milan. After the initial announcement that Bocelli had accepted the invitation from the City of Milan to perform it wasn’t long before the suspense was building and tweets were being sent out across the world to spread the word about this epic online concert.
The lack of spectators made the space even more impressive. With its gigantic fifty two pillars, religious iconography and meticulously carved statues, the Cathedral is one of the most beautiful pieces of architecture in Italy. The sun streaming through the stained glass made the atmosphere all the more powerful. The stage was set and we were ready to enjoy an evening with one of the world’s most famous tenors.
Beginning with a message of perseverance, tears shed as we got a glimpse of the empty iconic landmarks around the world. Footage of empty streets in Milan, Paris, London and New York forced us to reflect on our shared grief for those who have passed away, a shared will to find a way through the dark days and a shared love for eachother through music.
Singing with only the organist to accompany him Andrea treated fans around the world to a live concert with breathtaking Italian classics; “Panis Angelicus,” “Ave Maria,” “Sancta Maria” and “Domine Deus” were heard before he gave an epic performance of Amazing Grace outside the Cathedral.
The lyrics from the famous ‘Amazing Grace’ “I once was lost, but now am found,
T’was blind but now I see” now more appropriate than ever, with time to ponder our wishes for a brighter future. We found ourselves lost in the messages of healing and hope so eloquently voiced through songs that we love. At a time when the world is forced to be apart we were especially lucky to come together online for a unique celebration of Easter around the world.
Together but apart, we poured our tea and tucked into some Easter egg to gather in our living rooms and listen in to this spine tingling performance. Transcending religion, making race irrelevant and speaking to all walks of life, this epic performance at a time when music is one way for us to reach beyond borders, was the perfect way to celebrate Easter Sunday.