On Thursday 2 April, I had the privilege and honour of attending a concert held at the Co-Cathedral of St John in Valletta. The National Philharmonic Orchestra, under the baton of the talented Mro Emanuel Spagnol, gave a remarkable interpretation of Giacchino Rossini’s Stabat Mater. The opening pieces: Mro Joseph Vella’s Lament, as well as Suite No 4 Scenes Pittoresques Angelus of Jules Massenent were indeed a well thought complement to the Stabat Mater, and were executed marvelously.

Soloists soprano Miriam Cauchi, mezzo soprano Claire Massa, tenor Antonio Intersiano and bass Noel Galea performed to the highest level we could ever expect. The Co-Cathedral exploded in a roar of merited applause for these talented musicians and soloists.

One cannot but praise also the Mirabitur choir, under the direction of Simone Attard. The two very demanding a capella movements of the Stabat Mater were performed impeccably. Indeed well done to all.

I must say that it was a great pleasure to see the Co-Cathedral so full of people, Maltese and foreigners alike, who appreciated the talent of our musicians and singers. It is true that in this tiny Island we have so much to offer. Finally, I would like to thank and praise once again Mro. Emanuel Spagnol for the fine work and for the success of the whole evening. I hope we will be seeing him directing the National Philharmonic Orchestra more often in the near future.

Nicholas Busuttil Dougall

Fgura