Bocelli is a name known to many around the world. Synonymous with soaring rich tenor vocal lines and beautiful melodies, Andrea Bocelli has become a household name since he burst onto the stage thirty years ago. 

Now, it is the turn of his son, Matteo Bocelli to carry on the family legacy as he embarks on his first headline world tour. Blessed with a voice carrying the same richness as his father, the younger Bocelli sticks to some of the classics that his father has performed but also brings a quintessentially Italian pop style to his music, adding a lightness to his voice and to his setlist. 

The first Australian stop on Bocelli’s world tour was at the picturesque Concert Hall at the Sydney Opera House. It was a venue that Bocelli said he had dreamed of headlining ever since he saw his father perform at the same venue and as he walked out onto the stage and sat down at the piano, it was as though he was quite literally born for the stage. 

It was understandable that Bocelli took a little while to hit his stride, with his first few songs revealing some intonation and rhythmic issues as he warmed into his set. But the moment that Bocelli switched to Italian, the performance improved immensely. He began the Italian portion of his set with “Dimmi”, a light Italian pop song that showed off his soaring high register. His ballad, “Piove (Solo L’amore)” followed and was one of the highlights of the show as Bocelli’s predominately Italian audience swooned as he crooned to them about the power of love and its ability to save. 

It was clear from the moment Bocelli stepped on stage that he was a heartthrob for many in the room. In one part of the show, he came into the audience to sing part of his set and was immediately swamped by concertgoers, eager to hold his hand, grab a selfie and sometimes, even more. It seemed as though Bocelli was even surprised at times with the attention he received from the audience, smiling awkwardly as he danced with his adoring fans. 

After performing some of his own music, Bocelli moved into the ‘standards’ portion of his set. He was joined by Silvia Colloca for “Can’t Help Falling In Love” where both explored the beauty of the song with gorgeous harmonies and powerful vocals. While he didn’t perform too many of his father’s songs, he entertained the crowd with a fabulous rendition of “Quando quando quando” which had the whole crowd on their feet. 

Bocelli was less comfortable in the English portions of his show (which was understandable given it is not his first language) but received a huge ovation from the audience when he sung “Perfect Symphony”, a song made famous by his father and Ed Sheeran. He performed the song with tenderness and passion, with his moving rendition bringing an audience member in the front row to tears. 

Throughout the night, Bocelli was supported by a small chamber ensemble as well as his musical director, Valerio Carboni, who was absolutely incredible on the piano, guitar and backing vocals (as well as providing quick one-liners when needed). Carboni brought an energy to the performance that allowed Bocelli to relax and settle into the performance and this was hugely beneficial for the entire set. 

While Bocelli certainly entertained the crowd during his set, there were a few times where his inexperience showed. His movement on stage was not quite yet commanding nor was his connection with the audience entirely consistent. While this will only continue to improve as Bocelli grows as a performer, it was something that was noticeable in this set. 

Perhaps the highlight of the entire night was at the end of the encore, when Bocelli performed a barnstorming rendition of “Caruso”. Full of power and intention, it is no exaggeration to say that this sounded exactly like his father, which is the highest compliment one can give. It was a masterful and considered performance, one well beyond what could be expected of someone at this stage of their career. 

Matteo Bocelli is clearly a talent full of a lot of promise. This show demonstrated that he has the voice to succeed in the ‘standards’ world for many years to come. As his stage presence continues to improve, he will only become an even greater force to be reckoned with. 

Rating: ★★★★

Matteo Bocelli – Sydney Opera House – 24^th March, 2024

Photos: Supplied