[The Limey] – The history of music has been blessed with many whose vocal dexterity could hold an audience spellbound, and thanks to America’s Got Talent a new name can be added to that lustrous list – Jackie Evancho.
For Tuesday’s show all the contestants had to submit their auditions by You Tube. One such video came from ten-year old Jackie – and she has the potential to redefine song.
Born in Pittsburgh, PA, the tiny starlet appeared on stage with her long blond hair accenting a dress which gave no clue of the wonders within. The orchestra then formed the opening bars of “O mio babbino caro,” a dramatic aria from Puccini’s 1918 opera ‘Gianni Schicchi.’
And from her small frame came a quite magical sound.
Blending the upper-register trills of the divine Lesley Garrett with the velvet-smooth mid-range that has made Kiri Te Kanawa the rightful focus of worship, Jackie gave a performance of such melodic perfection it left the audience in raptures and the judges all stunned.
“All we wanted was to find that one moment; that one gem,” gushed Howie Mandel. “And you know what? This is the moment; You’re the star.”
Piers Morgan was also left fumbling for words;
“That is one of the most extraordinary performances I’ve ever seen,” he beamed at the dimple-cheeked prima donna.
And Sharon seemed equally floored, “I can’t believe that voice came out of your tiny body,” she said, clearly moved.
The audition ended with Jackie in tears and the audience in full-throated wonder. Watch the video and see how you feel…
