Christmas time in Gozo is becoming increasingly attractive. For centuries people have set cribs in their homes and bagpipers have gone through the streets playing traditional tunes. Music is one of the main components of Christmas.

In fact, the Xaghra Local Council is contributing in these festivities and will soon be holding the tenth edition of the Christmas Concert, which this year will be entitled 'Puer Natus Est'. The concert will take place on Sunday 28th December at the Basilica of Marija Bambina in Xaghra, Gozo at 7.00pm.

This concert is a much awaited high-brow event and has established itself in the national cultural calendar for the festive season. For this year's edition, the Xaghra Local Council has invited the Voci Angeliche Choir to perform.

Voci Angeliche Choir is celebrating its 24th Anniversary from its foundation. The pioneers of this choir were Rev. Fr Carmelo Refalo, the parish priest of Xaghra who came up with the idea of forming a choir, Rev. Fr Joseph Bajada (who provided guidance, support and assistance throughout the years) and Grace Vella, who has been the choir mistress for the last 24 years. When the choir was in its early stages, all choristers were children. As they became adults, some of them wished to remain choir members and today Voci Angeliche consists of both children and adult choristers.

The choir has continued to develop with the help of Ronald Camilleri, musical director. Choir members have the opportunity to receive continuous musical development. Auditions for new members are held annually and the choir welcomes queries from parents of prospective children members. Voci Angeliche sings during the main liturgical celebrations at the Basilica of the Nativity of Our Lady in Xaghra.

The choir also performs at weddings, baptisms, funerals and socio-cultural events. It also, occasionally, provides entertainment at hotels and performed with well-known choirs as well as with the National Orchestra. Whilst changes have occurred over the years, the choir's main aim continues to prevail. This is to praise the Almighty, helping individuals to express themselves through music and to make others appreciate music.

Apart from tradtional and novel carols with the participation of children and adolescents from Voci Angeliche Choir, 'Puer Natus Est' Christmas Concert will include music by several composers . Voci Angeliche Choir will touch the souls of all those present with their angelic voices and this music and will leave us with a Christmas 'boost' for the remaining week of festivities until the Solemnity of the Epiphany of the Lord. Moreover, the Christmas and artistic atmosphere which the Basilica offers, helps to relish in this Christmas Concert. The choir will be under the direction of Ms. Grace Vella, while the concert will be conducted by Musical Director Mro.John Galea.

This fabulous concert is being held under the auspicious patronage of the President of Malta, Dr. Edward Fenech A dami. During the soiree', a collection will be held in aid of the Community Chest Fund Malta.

Voci Angeliche Choir and the Xaghra Local Council are grateful for the invaluable support of the Xaghra Archpriest Mons. Carmelo Refalo and the Collegiate Chapter and Clergy of the Xaghra Parish and also the Cultural Committee within the Gozo Ministry.

Everyone is invited for this concert and entrance is free. For more information one can contact the Xaghra Local Council on 21563737 or visit their website at www.xaghra.com.