This weeks 26th of January edition of The Maltese Herald Gozo section is now available for download by clicking here.

Previous editions are also available by clicking on this link.

The stories covered in this weeks issue are:

1. St. George’s Basilica was once again the venue for the 12th Edition of the annual Christmas Concert organized by Chorus Urbanus Productions, “Il-Kuncert tal-Milied 2009.” For his year’s concert, Chorus Urbanus was accompanied by the Island Brass Ensemble, composed of some of the best local musicians. This year’s concert assumed a different perspective in that the arrangement for brass and choir gave slightly modern interpretations to the usual Christmas carols. In fact this year’s project was highly appreciated by the numerous audience that packed the basilica.

The programme opened with a Christmas Fanfare by the ensemble that also interpreted Coventry Carol and The First Nowell. Mro. Mark Gauci on the Bb Baritone, gave an excellent solo interpretation of ‘Neath the Dublin Skies accompanied by the brass ensemble. Well-known local singer, Pamela Bezzina, ex-member of the Chorus Urbanus, was guest singer interpreting Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas.

Chorus Urbanus, accompanied by the Island Brass Ensemble, interpreted a number of traditional and popular carols including Christmas Lullaby, Joy to the World, Zither Carol, O Holy Night and Away in a Manger. Noel Galea (solo bass) and the choir interpreted Adeste Fideles whereas the choir gave an a cappella interpretation of While Shepherds Watched. However, a very touching interpretation of the traditional Maltese carol Ninni La Tibkix Izjed just showed the beauty of this evergreen carol whose beauty lies in its simplicity. In fact the choir almost sang in unison throughout the carol accompanied solely by the harp ably played by Jacob Portelli. During the concert, Joe M. Attard, who compered the event, recited one of his poems written for this year’s Christmas followed by a collection in aid of Arka Foundation.

The Choir and ensemble were under the direction of Dr. John Galea, musical director of Chorus Urbanus. The concert was attended by the Prime Mininster Lawrence Gonzi and Mrs Gonzi, the Minister for Gozo Giovanna Debone, the Parliamentry Secretary Dr Chris Said, Mr Samuel Azzopardi, Mayor of Victoria, Mgr Paul Cardona, Archpriest of St. George’s Basilica, members of the Rev. Chapter of the Basilica and a number of other distinguished guests. A reception for the guests was held afterwards.

2. Paintings and drawings by Mario Caffaro Rore are on show at Art..e Gallery, 1 Library Street, Victoria. The Italian artist has left his mark in Malta and Gozo, as several of his works are in private collections. However, his major work is the painting of the dome of the Mdina Cathedral. Other works are found at Stella Maris parish church, Sliema, St Peter’s church, Mdina and Ta’ Pinu Sanctuary. The exhibition is open Monday to Saturday from 9.30 a.m. to 12.15 p.m. until January 30. For more information call 2155 7911 or 9980 4774 or e-mail art@artegozo.com.

3. The nativity village, Betlehem f’Ghajnsielem, came to end on the Sunday, of the feast of the Epiphany, with the adoration of the Three Kings (Magi).

The Magi arrived at Mgarr harbour from the east side on a luzzu (Maltese boat) in the afternoon and made their way to the nativity village on horseback.

People lined the streets leading to Ta’ Passi fields where the Magi were welcomed by a large crowd as they made their way to the grotto to adore Baby Jesus.

4. Suha Arafat visited Ghajnsielem parish church, followed by a short interview on Radju Lauretana by the director, Lelio Spiteri. She also visited the nativity village and an exhibition on Palestine at St Joseph Band Club, Ghajnsielem.

Photo by Charles Spiteri – Suha Arafat interviewed on Radju Lauretana by the director, Lelio Spiteri.