 Andrea Bocelli will perform at Jamsil Gymnasium, Seoul on May 2. / Courtesy of Hyundai Card/Vincero |
Staff Reporter
Andrea Bocelli needs little introduction. His concerts here always boast a full house and the tenor will return next month to relive what is expected to be another intense experience.
``An artist becomes one with the audience. … It is through the audience that I gain both strength and courage,’’ the 51-year-old told The Korea Times in a recent email interview.
``I have many friends in Korea, not only people I share personal connections with but members of the audience who discern my music and show an amazing reaction to it. I have very intense memories of Korea and I am happy to revisit Korea. In the Korea performance, I hope to give everything of myself and offer not only music but also limitless talent as a gift."
In the concert, titled ``Incanto’’ (Enchant), Bocelli will captivate fans with an array of Italian classics. The program includes operatic arias such as ``Brindisi’’ from Verdi’s ``La Traviata’’ and famous ballads such as ``Canto Della Terra.’’ He will be joined by Delta Goodrem, the winner of the Best Female Artist prize at the 2005 MTV Australia Video Music Awards.
Though it’s impossible for him to single out favorite songs, he is particularly fond of singing as the painter Cavaradossi in Verdi’s opera ``Tosca.’’ ``It’s a special role because I become completely immersed in the character, and find myself striving for love and honor, and dedication.’’
The crossover artist’s love and dedication to his art has earned him multiple awards and platinum albums. Now he even has his own star on Hollywood’s Walk of Fame.
``Awards symbolize the affection of fans and it’s an opportunity to feel that the love of the public has grown,’’ he said about becoming one of the few classical musicians to gain a spot on the famous walkway last month.
But moreover, it’s about introspection rather than basking in the spotlight. ``I’m always trying to become a better person rather than think about the joy of fame. I trust myself always, even though it’s not easy to be devoted, truthful and passionate all the time. My sons will walk many paths, and I hope they too each find their own star. In the process, there will be tears of both joy and sadness,’’ said the father of two.
Born in Tuscany, Italy, Bocelli lost his eyesight at a young age and his mother encouraged him to pursue music.
``My mother discovered my talent when I was young and clueless. I was able to stand on my own in the music industry thanks to her. … I entered the world of opera due to (the late Italian tenor) Franco Corelli, and I knew this the moment I heard his voice. His voice has become the foundation for my music and life, and I felt a love for opera the moment I heard his voice,’’ he recalled.
After studying law at the University of Pisa, he was singing in piano bars when he was discovered. His career took off when the late tenor Luciano Pavarotti heard Bocelli’s demo tape by chance.
Now, as one of the most sought-after artists, he travels all over the world. ``My voice is my instrument. It’s different from just flesh and blood, and practicing everyday and trying to maintain the best condition on a daily basis are a must,’’ he said.
``I spend one to two hours on vocal training and spend time on studying repertoires. But it’s also important to appreciate the small things in everyday life,’’ he said.
The concert will be held at 7 p.m., May 2 at Jamsil Gymnasium, Seoul, as the ninth of Hyundai Card’s Super Concert Series. Tickets cost from 100,000 to 290,000 won. Call (02) 599-5743.
