No Need to Bury Bocelli to Praise 3 Tenors

In Mark Swed’s article “The Three Tenors’ Cup Runneth Over” (July 10, 1998), Andrea Bocelli was called a “pseudo opera tenor” and a “pseudo classical cross-over,” two statements that are totally unfair.

Bocelli can sing opera with the best of them, as his recent release, “Aria, the Opera Album,” proves. Because he sings cross-over (opera and pop)--so does everyone else these days (Pavarotti just released an album of Italian love sings)--is certainly no reason to consider him less classy than the big three. (Swed says: “Compared to Bocelli, Bolton or Rieu, the Three Tenors almost seem like a class act.”)

Bocelli has an emotional, heartfelt quality to his voice, which audiences respond to--witness how long recordings such as “Romanza” stay on the charts. He also has an appealing personality, coming across as humble and gracious. Compared to the Three Tenors, who can seem rather pompous, arrogant and mechanical, he offers a refreshing and genuine performance.

It’s all right for Swed to sing the praises of the Three Tenors, but not by disparaging others.

EDITH WOOD HARVATH

Buena Park