University musicians to perform with legendary tenor in Nashville, Birmingham stops of his ‘Romanza 30th Anniversary Tour’
More than 85 Belmont University student musicians from the University Orchestra and Chorale will take the stage alongside world-renowned tenor Andrea Bocelli this February, performing in the Nashville and Birmingham stops of his “Romanza – 30th Anniversary World Tour.”
The students will perform with Bocelli, Sunday, Feb. 22 at Legacy Arena at the BJCC in Birmingham, Alabama, and Monday, Feb. 23 at Bridgestone Arena in Nashville, joining a professional orchestra conducted by Maestro Steven Mercurio.
The opportunity traces back to October when Belmont students performed with Bocelli during “An Evening of Hope” at Belmont’s Fisher Center for the Performing Arts, a landmark concert that launched the University’s Hope Transforms campaign. Moved by the students’ professionalism and talent, Bocelli invited the students to join him on tour this winter, becoming a reality next month.
“Distinctive opportunities like this don’t happen by chance,” said Stephen Eaves, dean of Belmont’s College of Music & Performing Arts. “They happen when rigorous preparation meets real-world trust. Our students have earned this ‘only-at-Belmont' moment through their discipline, artistry and professionalism, and we’re proud to see them represent Belmont on this prestigious world tour.”
Selected through a professional audition and selection process modeled after industry standards, Belmont’s student musicians will perform as paid professionals alongside faculty principals and guest artists. The engagement mirrors the fast-paced realities of the global touring industry, requiring precision, flexibility and excellence at the highest level.
“This experience affirms what we strive to do every day: prepare students not just to observe excellence, but to achieve it,” said Dr. Christopher Fashun, Belmont’s director of orchestras. “Our students were prepared in the way that reflect the professional standards, and that preparation opened the door to an extraordinary opportunity.”
The performances are part of Bocelli’s “Romanza – 30th Anniversary World Tour,” celebrating one of the most successful albums in classical music history.
Tour Dates Featuring Belmont Students
- Sunday, Feb. 22, 2026— Birmingham, Alabama. | Legacy Arena at the BJCC
- Monday, Feb. 23, 2026— Nashville, Tennessee. | Bridgestone Arena
Tickets for both concerts are available at andreabocelli.com.
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