Andrea Bocelli receives Key to the City of Vaughan

Mayor Steven Del Duca issued the following statement after presenting the Key to the City of Vaughan to Andrea Bocelli, philanthropist and world-renowned singer:  

“In honour of his extensive contributions to charity, arts and culture, I was pleased to present the Key to the City of Vaughan to legendary tenor Andrea Bocelli last night.

“For more than 30 years, Andrea’s angelic voice has touched our hearts and moved our spirits. His music transcends language, with his 15 solo albums selling more than 70 million records worldwide. Andrea is a Grand Officer of the Order of Merit of the Italian Republic and was awarded a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. Yesterday, he and his wife Veronica were honoured with the Humanitarian Award by Chai Lifeline Canada at the Harmony and Hope Gala in Vaughan.

“Andrea remains deeply connected to his Italian roots, like many Vaughan residents. Our city is home to one of the largest Italian populations in Canada, and we continue to celebrate the many contributions of Italian Canadians to our city, province and country.

“Andrea’s global humanitarian work is focused on empowering people and communities in poverty, illiteracy and distress by promoting and supporting projects that overcome these barriers and drive people toward their full potential. Andrea is committed to giving back to the world all the good things he has received so the less fortunate or most vulnerable members of our society can achieve a life full of opportunity and beauty.

“I am thrilled that Vaughan will soon be home to a state-of-the-art performing arts and cultural centre and I look forward to extending an invitation for Andrea Bocelli to perform at our performing arts centre in the future.

“On behalf of the residents of Vaughan and Members of Council, I want to express my most sincere gratitude to Andrea Bocelli for his remarkable contributions. Whether pursuing continued mastery of his craft or supporting those less fortunate, he is a well-deserving recipient of this prestigious honour.”