Just to be invited for the opportunity to sing in front of acclaimed Italian opera star Andrea Bocelli was a dream come true for Lower Burrell’s Colin Aikins.

At 18, Colin Aikins is very young by operatic standards — opera singers’ voices typically are not fully mature until their mid-30s. But he already makes people cry.

PITTSBURGH (KDKA) — Not everyone is a fan of Italian opera, but one listen to Colin Aikins’ voice might change your mind. It’s a gift.

Many have experienced the joy that comes from belting it out in an empty house, but few have the dedication it takes to turn it into something more. Colin Aikins (18) is proof that dreams really can become reality.

His voice moves people. When he opens his mouth, the sound captivates an entire room. Colin Aikins can sing.