In 1995, Andrea Bocelli entered a singing competition, and the world heard his voice for the first time. Like Pavarotti is to ‘Nessun dorma’, Andrea Bocelli is to ‘Time to Say Goodbye’. But the beloved Italian tenor’s signature song had humble beginnings, with more than a hint of the magic that was to come.

Before it became ‘Time to Say Goodbye’, and before he met Sarah Brightman, a young Bocelli sang ‘Con te partirò’ for the very first time on stage in a 1995 televised competition (watch below). While the song eventually went on to define his career, when he was first offered it, Bocelli had serious doubts.