Detroit Opera: Fast facts and history
Exploring the iconic Detroit Opera House, its rich history, elegant architecture, and cultural significance that has captivated audiences for over a century.
- Andrea Bocelli will perform a holiday concert in Detroit on Sunday, Dec. 7, at Little Caesars Arena.
- The famed tenor is celebrating 30 years in music, marked by a new “Duets” album and a concert film.
- Bocelli’s Detroit show will feature holiday music, beloved arias, and songs from his inspirational album “Believe.”
- Throughout his career, Bocelli has sold nearly 90 million records and collaborated with a wide range of artists.
The inspiring sound of soaring arias will fill Little Caesars Arena this Sunday, Dec. 7, when music superstar Andrea Bocelli returns to Detroit for a holiday concert as only he can deliver.
2024 marked a milestone for Bocelli as he celebrated 30 years of an iconic career. The year saw the release of his “Duets” album, which topped the classical music charts and featured cherished collaborations with stars like Ed Sheeran, Celine Dion and Luciano Pavarotti, alongside new recordings with Shania Twain, Chris Stapleton, Karol G and others. Bocelli also debuted a concert film, “Andrea Bocelli 30: The Celebration,” capturing his three-day July event in Italy. The film is airing on PBS stations across all tour markets.
Recognized as one of the most distinctive voices in entertainment, Bocelli has sold nearly 90 million records worldwide. His career includes sold-out arena tours, record-breaking livestreams, and performances at global events such as the Olympic Games, the World Cup, and Global Citizen. Among his accolades are a Golden Globe, seven Classical BRIT Awards, seven World Music Awards, and a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame.
The singer’s Detroit visit will showcase his rich repertoire, featuring festive selections from his chart-topping album “A Family Christmas” and its deluxe edition, alongside pieces from his inspirational solo project Believe. Audiences can also expect a mix of beloved arias, signature hits and timeless love songs.
“I have dear friends in Detroit,” Bocelli told the Free Press by e-mail. “What I admire most about this city is the extraordinary fusion of its industrial heritage with the musical creativity that it expresses. Detroit is a place that has forged both engines and music, and still today continues to pulse with a unique energy capable of inspiring anyone who comes here. My bond with Detroit is longstanding and grounded in genuine friendship. It has always been a frequent stop on my US tours, and each visit brings renewed excitement and great joy at meeting such an affectionate and vibrant audience once again.”
While primarily known for his operatic work, Bocelli has successfully dabbled in other genres, drawing new listeners into classical – though he’s careful not to call it “crossover.”
“I must admit that the term ‘crossover’ often creates a certain ambiguity,” said the singer. “Rather than blending genres, I have, in fact, always tried to place them side by side – bringing opera into settings typically reserved for pop – with the intention of sharing the beauty of this genre and broadening its audience.
“I believe that tradition is not a museum to be admired from a distance, but a door to be opened − and beyond that door lies a world of potential marvels. When I perform for an international audience, I strive to remain faithful to the style and authenticity of the repertory, while placing special focus on emotional communication. Technique preserves the legacy; intention makes it accessible. If the interpreter can make the human component of music resonate, then even those hearing it for the first time can find their own path into it.”
His greatest strengths
Across the decades, faith and family have remained central themes in Bocelli’s life and music.
“My strength, in existential terms,” he said, “lies without doubt in having, nurturing, and continually cultivating the gift of faith. In the realm of affection, family is my greatest strength – both the one into which I was born and the one I have built as an adult. Family is the ideal setting in which to practice dialogue and to do good. And I say as the testimony of someone who, for many decades, has chosen to stand firmly on the side of what is good.
“These convictions bring me a sense of honor and a responsibility that I welcome. As a believer and practicing man of faith, I feel called to lend my voice and offer my humble contribution as a testimony to what I believe. Through music, my hope is always to inspire the Christian values upon which I have built my life.”
Recent years have seen Bocelli performing from time to time with his son, Matteo, an acclaimed singer in his own right.
“Matteo is a true colleague of mine,” Bocelli said. “He is an excellent and mature singer, already having under his belt critical acclaim. He is an artist who has found in music his own path and his own style, expressing a distinct personality that stands entirely on its own, beyond the weight of his celebrated last name. I have directly witnessed the enthusiasm Matteo’s voice and music inspire, particularly among younger generations.”
Expressing gratitude
Bocelli has collaborated with a wide range of artists during his career, from opera greats to pop stars like Ariana Grande and Shania Twain. He relishes the opportunity to reach out and combine styles with others.
“‘Together’ is the magic word,” he said. “It applies to life in every aspect, to philanthropy – where unity multiplies results – and, of course, also to music. A duet is a challenge, and when it is won, it can create a chemistry that elevates the vocal and expressive qualities of both singers. The fact that two voices may come from different or even opposite backgrounds is not a limitation. For this reason, singing together − whether in opera or in pop − remains one of the most gratifying and intense experiences of my career.
“Over the years, I have had the privilege of meeting many wonderful companions along my way, and as I always say: from everyone I learned something and from some, I learned immensely.”
Bocelli loves his art so much that he has expressed no desire to retire, ever. He’ll bring that passion with him to Detroit this week.
“Music is part of my very being,” he said. “It is a gift from above, a bridge that allows us to see what lies hidden behind the veil of everyday life. For me, music also means sharing − maintaining a direct relationship, a real and confidential connection with those who are kind enough to appreciate the fruit of my work. This is an essential element of my life as both an artist and as a man. Wherever I perform, I try to establish a one-on-one connection with each listener, to whom I hope to convey positive emotions.
“Live music, and the beauty it reveals, becomes a bridge between consciences, and the joy that it creates gives the performance the air and magic of a celebration. This has been my experience, and I hope that those who honor me with their trust feel the same way and respond favorably each time we have the opportunity to be together.”
Andrea Bocelli
When: Sunday, Dec. 7, 8 p.m.
Where: Little Caesars Arena, 2645 Woodward Ave., Detroit
Tickets: start at $108, 313presents.com
