Italian tenor Andrea Bocelli grew up in Lajatico, a rural village in Tuscany, where his family still farms nearby. Last July, on the slopes of his ancient hill town, a special theater was constructed for a one-night-only concert of his greatest popular hits along with new songs performed to honor the occasion. Some famous musical friends dropped by and the magical result is Andrea Bocelli - Vivere - Live in Tuscany, premiering this December on PBS.

Joining Andrea for the new songs are "grandissimo sassofonista" Kenny G, trumpeter Chris Botti, piano virtuoso Lang Lang, Italian pop star Eliza, and legendary musician, songwriter and producer David Foster. Helping with the hits: favorite divas Sarah Brightman, Heather Headley and Laura Pausini.

Surveying the breathtaking landscape that provides the backdrop for the festivities, Bocelli introduces the telecast with the passion of a true Toscano. "It´s my land," he says, "a land that loves silence as much as I do. If I break this silence with my voice, it´s because I want to pay tribute. Music penetrates this land; it flows across it and flies off far away. It´s a message of love."

Musical highlights include the song that launched Bocelli´s career, "Il Mare Calmo Della Sera"; the one that brought him international stardom, "Time to Say Goodbye," in duet with Sarah Brightman; Laura Pausini joining him for "Dare to Live" ("Vivere"); Bocelli and Heather Headley reprising the popular "Vivo Per Lei," plus several new selections from the just-released The Best of Andrea Bocelli - Vivere album (Sugar Music/Decca). Also featured is a meltingly romantic medley of songs from his 2006 collection, Amore: "Bésame Mucho," "Somos Novios" ("It´s Impossible") and "I Can´t Help Falling in Love with You."