Luciano Pavarotti

The great opera singer has been suffering from pancreatic cancer, and tonight's news bulletins sound as if the end may be near; his family is gathering at his bedside in Italy.

I'm sad, reading this; I didn't realize he was so gravely ill. It would be hard to express how much joy his voice has given me over the years -- probably more than any other living musician -- even though I've never seen him perform in person. His voice has accompanied me on many long drives, given me peace and astonishment in hours of solitude, made me burst into song, inspired me with the obvious joy he found in performing and sharing his huge gift, which he used to the fullest. I'm very grateful, and I wish him peace and a passage out of this world that is filled with glorious music.

Here he is singing his signature aria, "Nessun Dorma", from Puccini's Turandot, with James Levine; I've heard it a hundred times and it still brings me to tears - especially so tonight.

Comments

[marja-leena]

I saw the news about him too and have had the very same thoughts and feelings - sadness at the coming loss, but also recalling the same joy from his voice. I can't sing so would always feel a twinge of envy but mostly awe, excitement and even tears. Thanks for this, Beth.

[Dick]

And now a tear or two in actual mourning. How much more resonant is the death of a great artist over the death of a politician.

[Planethalder]

Beth, I've just tagged you with a What's In My Fridge meme on my blog. I'd love to have a peek into your fridge and I'm sure it will be filled with lovely food!

[dave]

Hey, why'd you remove your September 11 post? Now I have to go edit out my link. Grump.

[Josh]

RIP Luciano Pavarotti.

We have created a memorial site to pay tribute to Luciano Pavarotti

http://www.people-to-remember.com/wiki/index.php/Luciano_Pavarotti

Please feel free to share your comments and thoughts.

Thanks,
Josh