Andrea Bocelli's "Sacred Arias" is a timeless collection of traditional Christian music, showcasing the Italian tenor's extraordinary vocal prowess and emotional depth. Released in 1999, this album has become Bocelli's most commercially successful classical album, with over 5 million copies sold worldwide. It is also the best-selling classical album by any solo artist in history, a testament to its universal appeal and enduring popularity.
The album features a stunning array of sacred arias, composed by some of the most revered names in classical music, including Bach, Schubert, and Verdi. Each track is a masterclass in vocal technique and emotional expression, from the hauntingly beautiful "Ave Maria" to the powerful and dramatic "Requiem." Bocelli's voice, with its incredible range and clarity, brings a new dimension to these timeless pieces, making them feel both familiar and fresh.
"Sacred Arias" is not just an album, but a spiritual journey, taking the listener through a range of emotions and experiences. The album's centerpiece is the stunning "Panis Angelicus," a piece that showcases Bocelli's ability to convey deep emotion and spirituality through his voice. Other highlights include the soaring "Gloria" and the tender "Ave Verum Corpus."
The album was recorded with the Orchestra dell'Accademia Nazionale di Santa Cecilia and conducted by Myung-Whun Chung, with the Coro dell'Accademia Nazionale di Santa Cecilia providing backing vocals. The result is a lush, rich sound that perfectly complements Bocelli's voice.
In 2000, a DVD version of the album was released, featuring a live performance by Bocelli at the Roman church of Santa Maria Sopra Minerva. This performance, conducted by Myung-whun Chung, includes all the tracks from the album, plus three additional pieces: "Amen" from Rossini's "Stabat Mater," Verdi's "Requiem," and "Pietà, Signore."
"Sacred Arias" is a true masterpiece, a collection of sacred music that transcends time and place. Whether you're a fan of classical music or simply appreciate the power of the human voice, this album is sure to leave a lasting impression.
Vinylscout