André Rieu’s concerts are nothing short of a grand celebration. With his Johann Strauss Orchestra elegantly dressed—men in formal suits and women in dazzling, sparkling gowns—the atmosphere feels like a fairy tale brought to life. The stage itself becomes a piece of art, adorned with flowing drapes, vibrant floral arrangements, and ornate, shimmering music stands. If you’re looking for a night filled with elegance, spectacle, and unforgettable music, an André Rieu concert offers exactly that.
One of the most breathtaking examples took place during the tenth anniversary of his summer concert series at Vrijthof Square in Maastricht. For this special event, the venue was transformed into a breathtaking Venetian dream. Complete with a replica of the Doge’s Palace, the Rialto Bridge, a stunning Italian fountain, and a festive masquerade theme, the square glowed with color and romance. These particular performances on July 11 and 12, 2014, were recorded and later released as part of the CD and DVD titled “Love in Venice.”
Among the most memorable moments of that concert was a duet that no one in the crowd would forget. André Rieu, ever the gracious host, introduced a young girl named Amira Willighagen. At just ten years old, Amira walked confidently onto the vast stage, curtsied politely, and then took everyone’s breath away. With remarkable poise, she began to sing “O Mio Babbino Caro,” the emotionally rich aria by Giacomo Puccini, with lyrics by Giovacchino Forzano. Her voice, clear and hauntingly beautiful, soared effortlessly through the air, touching each heart in the audience.
It was nothing short of astonishing. This young girl, still very much a child, delivered one of opera’s most beloved arias in flawless Italian, her vocals steady and full of emotion. She seemed completely at ease under the lights, surrounded by thousands of people and the grandeur of the set, yet her performance was intimate, as if she was singing directly to each person present.
When the performance was later uploaded to YouTube, it didn’t take long for the world to discover it. As of early 2024, the video has been watched over 86 million times, with viewers from all over the world expressing their amazement and admiration in the comments.
One person shared, “I don’t have the words to describe the feeling I had listening to this extraordinary young girl. Her voice is so graceful and controlled—it’s almost unbelievable that she’s only ten.” Another viewer, a man in his fifties, wrote simply, “This made me cry. Real, uncontrollable sobs. This child is a treasure. Her voice is like crystal.”
The performance captured something rare—pure talent expressed with innocence and emotion. It was not just a concert moment, but a deeply human experience that left a mark on everyone who witnessed it, both in the square and later, around the world.