Before winning over the audience at the Viña del Mar International Song Festival 2026, Matteo Bocelli—the son of renowned Italian tenor Andrea Bocelli—attended Mass and recalled that, for him, “the Lord comes before everything.”
His appearance at Latin America’s largest music festival not only left a lasting impression on the thousands who sang along to his songs but also offered a quiet witness to his spiritual life.
Hours before taking the stage at Quinta Vergara, Matteo attended Sunday Mass at San Miguel Parish on February 22. There, several parishioners quickly recognized him.
In comments to Canal 13, the artist explained that attending Mass is a custom he keeps whenever he is in Italy, and that he did not want to break that habit during his stay in Chile.
“It’s something I always do when I’m at home in Italy, and now that I’m here in Chile, I feel I should do the same.”
When asked why he chose to participate in the Eucharist—despite having just finished soundcheck for his concert—Matteo answered without hesitation:
“The Lord comes before all else.”
He later admitted that he was surprised to see so many people at the parish, since he had hoped to experience that moment more privately. Even so, he remained after Mass to greet parishioners, take photos, and speak with those who approached him.
During his performance at the festival, Matteo won over the famously demanding Quinta Vergara audience and received two awards: a Silver Seagull and a Gold Seagull.
Matteo Bocelli's participation in Mass deeply moved many social media users, who shared messages highlighting his faith:
“Those who put God first in their lives always do well. What great values this young man has.”
“He knows it—today is the Lord’s Day 🙌.”
“A beautiful gift for our parish community of San Miguel de Capuchinos. Matteo Bocelli, a warm, respectful, and radiant young man, shared his time with the parishioners with simplicity, taking the time to greet and pose for photos with everyone who approached him. Without a doubt, a beautiful gesture ❤️ and a wonderful moment that will remain in our hearts forever.”