Vittorio Grigolo has signed a long-term exclusive recording deal with Sony Classical and will release his debut album for the label in autumn. Although the Italian tenor has in the past recorded crossover material, the new disc reflects his work on the operatic stage, including music by Donizetti, Verdi and Puccini.

"As a young boy I was always fascinated, listening to recordings of all the famous tenors and now I cannot believe it is my moment to join those great artists with my own particular sound and style,” Grigolo said. “The Sony Classical team will make this adventure more powerful and special. Our synergy will bring my passion for the beauty of opera directly to the ears and hearts of music lovers all around the world"

From an early age Grigolo has appeared in the public eye. He performed opposite Pavarotti as the Pasterello in Puccini’s Tosca at 13 years, and at 23 became the youngest tenor to debut at Italy’s La Scala. His impressive list of collaborators includes Riccardo Chailly, Lorin Maazel, Riccardo Muti, Zubin Mehta and Antonio Pappano. He is due to open Metropolitan Opera’s La Bohème this coming season in New York and will sing alongside Anna Netrebko in Massenet’s Manon at London’s Royal Opera House.

“In the Hands of Love”, his debut platinum-selling solo disc was released in 2006 and featured classical interpretations of popular songs. West Side Story with the Royal Liverpool Philharmonic followed in 2007.

"To hear a voice like Vittorio's in full flight is the most fundamental and powerful thrill opera has to offer,” said Sony Classical president Bogdan Roscic. “After our first recording sessions with Vittorio in Parma I can promise a moving experience to anybody interested in the beauty of the human voice."

Grigolo joins recent signees to Sony, including pianists Simone Dinnerstein and Lang Lang, and violinist Ray Chen.

Charlotte Smith