Most achingly-beautiful music

Dekay, a piece frequently referenced from the British Airways commercials is the Aria from the opera "Lakme" by Delibes. Not sure if that is the one to which you refer. It is certainly achingly beautiful nonetheless.

Thanks Khrys: I'll bet that's it. We received the piece on a "burned CD" without any other info. Everyone that I have played and hummed it to has noted the BA commercial but did not know the name.

Vaughn Williams, 'Fantasia on a theme by Thomas Tallis'
it sends shivers up my spine and tears to my eyes every time.
Best,
Ken

1. Second movement of Beethoven's violin concerto.
2. Mario Lanza singing "Marie" (especially after your Italian mom passes away).
3. Side 4 of Yes "Tales from Topographic Oceans"

Mahler, "Song of the Earth" K. Ferrier/B Walter, the Farewell. Not recommended for suicidal tendencies. Kathleen sang Ewig (farewell) a few months before she died -- and she knew her condition.