Placido Domingo Pays Tribute To The Late Pope John Paul II On Amore Infinito

NEW YORK, NY. (Top40 Charts/ Decca Label Group) - The legendary tenor Placido Domingo marks another historic chapter in his famed career with Amore Infinito, the forthcoming recording he calls, "one of the most important" of his career. With lyrics in English, Italian and Spanish, Amore Infinito features songs inspired by the poems written by the late Pope John Paul II. In addition to his solo work on the album, Domingo has also collaborated with some of the most exciting vocal talents in music including Andrea Bocelli, Josh Groban, Vanessa Williams and Katherine Jenkins. The CD also features a moving duet with Domingo's son, Placido Jr. Deutsche Grammophon will release Amore Infinito on March 10th.

Before Karol Wojtyla became Pope John Paul II, he began writing poetry during his years as a quarry worker, playwright, actor, seminary student and priest. Now Placido Domingo, out of deep respect and reverence for "the greatest human being I have ever known," has created this collection of songs as a personal affirmation of faith, and a tribute to the late Polish pontiff.

It was after Domingo's last performance for John Paul II at the Vatican that the legendary tenor expressed to His Holiness a wish to select some of his poems for musical setting. The iconic singer, along with a group of composers - including Domingo's son Placido Jr. - looked for themes of universal significance to accompany melodies that ultimately evoked deep emotional appeal and a timeless spirituality. Celebrating the eternal power of love, the new album is also utterly contemporary. "This recording has enormous significance for me," says Placido Domingo.

Of the experience, Josh Groban commented, "As a young singer, it is a joy to not only participate in a duet with such a magnificent voice as Placido's, but also to be witness to what a kind soul and consummate musician he is. Every moment in the studio with him was like a master class and I am very proud to have this beautiful collaboration on record." Andrea Bocelli also commented, "I had the privilege of singing many times for Pope John Paul II, and was very happy that a giant of our time such as Placido invited me to participate in this new recording. Now the words of His Holiness, and these beautiful melodies, will touch the hearts of music lovers everywhere through the great voice of Placido Domingo."

The heartfelt songs on Amore Infinito soar under the orchestration of Jorge Calandrelli - a central figure in the production of the album, and are performed by the London Symphony Orchestra under Nick Ingman.