The ‘Music for Hope’ performance, livestreamed on Bocelli’s Youtube channel, has been watched more than 31 million times so far.
Accompanied by an organist, Bocelli sang four songs inside the cathedral and ended with a rendition of Amazing Grace from the cathedral steps with a montage of images showing the empty streets of Paris, London and New York.
“On the day in which we celebrate the trust in a life that triumphs, I’m honoured and happy to answer ‘Si’ to the invitation of the City and the Duomo of Milan,” Bocelli said in a message played before the short concert.
“Thanks to music, streamed live, bringing together millions of clasped hands everywhere in the world, we will hug this wounded Earth’s pulsing heart.”
Churches in Italy remained closed over the Easter weekend and prayers given by Pope Francis on Easter Sunday were also livestreamed.
