Most young singers choose to perform in a genre that is popular among their peers. That is why I was extremely surprised (but also extremely pleased) to discover a young performer with a talent to perform….Opera.
While my exposure to Opera has been limited to an appreciation of the Spanish operatic soprano Montserrat Caballé, for her joint performances with a musical idol of mine — the Queen vocalist Freddie Mercury, I was really impressed with the vocal abilities and dramatic stage presence of 12-year-old Sheridan Archbold.
Not many kids his age (especially boys) would have the confidence and the ability to perform operatic pieces. Yet, when you hear Sheridan perform Caruso, you know that he was born to sing Opera. Every young performer needs dedication and desire to develop his talent, but in a few years I can imagine Sheridan reaching the level of some of the most acclaimed male tenors in the world, the likes of Andrea Bocelli and Luciano Pavarotti (whose music serves as a source of inspiration for the young American singer).
Here’s a sample of Sheridan’s work. The lyrics of this song tell about the pain and longing of a man who is about to die as he looks into the eyes of a girl who is very dear to him:
Sheridan Archbold performs Caruso
Judging from the video clips he shares on the internet, as well as his activity on the social media, Sheridan Archbold appears to have a bubbly personality and a great sense of humor. One will also note that he supports and encourages other young musicians and performers too, which speaks volumes about his lack of self-absorption (something I’ve unfortunately noted in some other young performers).
Having watched his videos, I think that Sheridan’s emotion-filled recitals are a perfect way to introduce young and older people alike to the musical art of Opera. Some of you will recall 2010 America’s Got Talent semi-finalist Jackie Evancho or, more recently, nine-year-old Amira Willighagen from the 2013 edition of Holland’s Got Talent. Both young ladies became known world-wide for their renditions of O Mio Babbino Caro (Oh My Beloved Father).
A young boy with a powerful and extraordinary voice, Sheridan Archbold makes a worthy addition to the parade of young stars introduced on theSkyKid.com.