Sheeran Takes Up Bocelli’s Flute For An Impromptu Music Lesson

What should you do first when learning a new instrument? For one pop star, the answer is clear: find an inspiring teacher.

2024 marks Andrea Bocelli’s 30th anniversary as a recording artist, and he’s celebrating with a series of concerts at Teatro del Silenzio in his native Tuscany. The event has drawn stars from stage and screen, alongside countless music lovers, all coming together to honor the iconic Italian tenor.

Among the guests, actor Will Smith not only joined Bocelli on stage but also captured some delightful moments behind the scenes. In an Instagram post, Smith shared a photo with singer-songwriter Ed Sheeran, who was also in Tuscany for the occasion.

At the celebration, Andrea Bocelli kicked off the festivities by playing Mozart’s Symphony No. 40 on the flute. He humorously asked, “Somebody like to play the flute?” and then handed the flute to Ed Sheeran with a smile, saying, “This is the best flute.”

Sheeran took the instrument, and though he struggled a bit at first, he managed to produce a few notes. Of course, he earned applause from the crowd.

Bocelli had previously explained that he uses the flute to warm up his diaphragm before performances because it helps him to prepare his voice without straining it.