A couple of weeks ago Robert Galea, a seminarian (studying for the priesthood that is!), launched his latest project Closer, over 47 minutes of contemporary Christian worship songs written, composed and sung by Robert himself. Following the local success of his previous single More of You, Robert was given the opportunity to go up to the UK to record his work under top Christian Music producer Neil Costello.

Closer is a live recording which includes musicians such as Paul Evans (Tim Hughes and Matt Redman), Neil Costello (Gloria Gaynor) and some of the best British session musicians and the vocals of Robert Galea and Leana Grech. Though this album, Robert says “ironically has very little to do with music, but its about a yearning heart to draw closer to an awesome God”, it will appeal to all people who would enjoy bands such as Coldplay, Keane, U2, The Beatles and Sting.

How old are you?

I was born on 14 November 1981, which will make me 24 tomorrow.

Significant other?

Well . . . no – and I guess I’d better get used to it.

What would you like to be doing in 10 years’ time?

Primarily I hope to be a priest by then, other than that I am just looking into the future with great anticipation and excitement.

What is your idea of perfect happiness?

Living the very present moment to the full, and not being in the least worried of what the next moment will bring. I simply would sum it up in the term “trusting in God”.

What is your favourite occupation?

I imagine that you would expect me to say it is the priesthood, but no! Priesthood is more than an occupation, it is part of who you are. I love being a musician; I find the unpredictability and the infinite opportunities of that occupation irresistible.

What is your greatest fear?

That I will do all the right things for the wrong reasons. Sincerity is a must.

What is it that you most value in your friends?

Faithfulness and pursuit, living in a seminary causes me to be less available for my friends so I really appreciate the friends who make an effort to find the time to be with me.

How would you like to die?

With the peace that I have lived my life to the full and have been faithful with what I have been entrusted.

What is your greatest extravagance?

I am a bit of a perfectionist. I do not like to do anything I know I will not give my best.

What is your greatest regret?

I have done so much more than I ever dreamed of. But if I’m going to nit-pick . . . forgetting to take a camera on many of my trips abroad.

n What is your most treasured possession?

My guitar. But more than that, my relationship with God!

Which talent would you most like to have apart from the ones you already have?

I so wish to learn to play the piano, but I just don’t have the patience. I am a self-taught guitarist, and I expect this to be the same with the piano.

What do you regard as the lowest depth of misery?

Not having a vision of life. Even the Bible says it “a man/woman without a vision will perish”.

Where would you like to live?

I’d love to live in the UK and Australia for a while, but I want my base to be our “sunny Malta”.

What is your most marked characteristic?

I suppose it would have to be optimism.

Who are your heroes/heroines in real life?

I don’t have one in particular, but I admire all people who are ready to be the change that they want to see.

What is it that you most dislike?

Bad breath! On myself and others.

What is your motto?

Do not expect to lead others to where you yourself have not been or not heading towards.