RemotePhotoPress/Shutterstock World-renowned Italian tenor Andrea Bocelli performed to an empty Duomo in the heart of Milan in Italy, in an event live-streamed to the world from one of the countries hardest hit by the coronavirus crisis on Easter Sunday.
Across the globe people tuned in to witness the concert which was streamed live via YouTube and now has over 30 million views.
Mr Bocelli said: “I will cherish the emotion of this unprecedented and profound experience, of this Holy Easter which this emergency has made painful, but at the same time even more fruitful, one that will stay among my dearest memories of all time.
“That feeling of being at the same time alone – as we all are in the presence of the Most High – yet of expressing the voice of the prayer of millions of voices, has deeply impressed and moved me. Love is a gift. Making it flow is the primary purpose of life itself. And I find myself once again indebted to life.”
Accompanied only by the cathedral organist Emanuele Vianelli, Bocelli sung a carefully chosen selection of pieces, specially arranged for solo voice and organ for the occasion. This included Ave Maria and Amazing Grace, as well as other sacred music.