He later learned the flute and saxophone, and was often asked to sing at family gatherings and at school. He was only six years old when he began studying the piano. Early Yearsīorn on September 22, 1958, in Lajatico, Italy, Andrea Bocelli became interested in music at an early age. He remains one of the world's most popular singers today. His 1995 album Bocelli sold well in Europe and 1999's Sogno became an international hit. His big break came when a demo tape landed in the hands of Luciano Pavarotti. Visually impaired from birth, Bocelli became blind at the age of 12 following a soccer injury. As a child, Andrea Bocelli learned to play the piano, flute and saxophone.