NASHVILLE, TENNESSEE (October 23, 2025) — As one of the more than fifty Belmont University orchestra students and members of the student performance group Chorale, Olivia Bastin experienced a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity October 16 — performing alongside world-renowned tenor Andrea Bocelli at Belmont's Fisher Center for the Performing Arts.
The students accompanied Bocelli and an all-star lineup of guest artists, including Trisha Yearwood, Michael W Smith, and CeCe Winans, during a special concert celebrating the launch of Belmont's historic $700 million Hope Transforms campaign.
"This was a truly transformative experience for our students," said Dr Christopher Fashun, Belmont's director of orchestras.
"There are very few schools that provide this kind of access to undergrads. You just don't see students — sometimes even in their first or second year — getting to collaborate with professionals at this level. That's just not normal."
For many students, the evening marked the most significant performance of their careers so far — a testament to Belmont's distinct opportunities for real-world experience and collaboration at the highest level of artistry.
About Belmont University
Located near the heart of thriving Nashville, Tennessee, Belmont University consists of nearly 9,000 students who come from every state and 33 countries. The University is nationally recognized for its innovative approach as well as its commitment to undergraduate teaching (US News and World Report).
As a Christ-centered, student-focused community, Belmont's mission is to develop diverse leaders of purpose, character, and wisdom who possess a transformational mindset and are eager and equipped to make the world a better place. With more than 115 areas of undergraduate study, 41 Master's programs, and five doctoral degrees, Belmont University aims to be the leading Christ-centered university in the world, producing leaders who will radically champion the pursuit of life abundant for all people. For more information, visit belmont.edu.
