Andrea Bocelli brought millions of internet users from all over the world to tears on Sunday when he performed an easter concert from an empty church in Milan, Italy.
An astounding 3.4 million people tuned in to watch the 61 year-old singer’s Music For Hope live from the deserted Duomo di Milano cathedral. The concert opened with video footage of the empty streets of Italy as Bocelli’s voice offered a message of hope amidst the coronavirus pandemic, saying that the day will serve as a “universal symbol of rebirth,” amid the pandemic.
“On the day in which we celebrate the trust in a life that triumphs, I’m honored and happy to answer ‘Sì’ to the invitation of the City and the Duomo of Milan. I believe in the strength of praying together; I believe in the Christian Easter, a universal symbol of rebirth that everyone — whether they are believers or not — truly needs right now,” Bocelli said.
“Thanks to music, streamed live, bringing together millions of clasped hands everywhere in the world, we will hug this wounded Earth’s pulsing heart, this wonderful international forge that is reason for Italian pride,” he continued. “The generous, courageous, proactive Milan and the whole of Italy will be again, and very soon, a winning model, engine of a renaissance that we all hope for. It will be a joy to witness it, in the Duomo, during the Easter celebration which evokes the mystery of birth and rebirth.”
While wearing a tuxedo, Bocelli proceeded to perform his beloved songs “Panis Angelicus,” “Ave Maria,” “Sancta Maria” and “Domine Deus.” The concert ended with him singing John Newton’s “Amazing Grace” as the deserted streets of Italy were shown once again.
Social media users from around the globe could not get enough of Bocelli’s performance.
“I can’t help crying at the heartbreaking beauty of Andrea Bocelli alone in the great duomo, only empty seats in front of him. This moment in history is magnificent and utterly sad. Siamo con te, Italia,” one user commented, with another adding, “Andrea Bocelli sang Amazing Grace just outside Duomo di Milano a few minutes ago. It was mesmerising.”
“Holy cow. Andrea Bocelli’s Amazing Grace just now was one of the most remarkable things I’ve ever seen. Incredibly moving.” wrote a third user, and a fourth added, “Andrea Bocelli singing alone inside Milan’s empty Duomo is heartbreaking but so powerful and uplifting. Grazie #MUSICFORHOPE.”
God bless Bocelli for giving us all something to be hopeful for during this difficult time!
This piece originally appeared in UpliftingToday.com and is used by permission.
Read more at UpliftingToday.com:
Archie’s Birth Certificate Reveals Surprising Details About Meghan Markle’s Real Name and Title
Prince Harry and Meghan Markle Respond After Learning U.S. Won’t Foot the Bill for Their Security
Meghan Markle And Prince Harry Issue Final Plea As They Officially Quit Royal Life Today
The opinions expressed by contributors and/or content partners are their own and do not necessarily reflect the views of Steve Gruber.
Join the Discussion
COMMENTS POLICY: We have no tolerance for messages of violence, racism, vulgarity, obscenity or other such discourteous behavior. Thank you for contributing to a respectful and useful online dialogue.