With Lent well underway, prepare for a deeply moving musical experience with Agnus Dei, A Concert of Sacred Music+, presented by Schola Cantorum Jubilate. The concert, taking place on Saturday 16 March at 7:30pm within the majestic Gozo Cathedral, promises to take the audience on a journey of reflection and spiritual renewal.
Agnus Dei is an artistic expression of the core themes of Lent. Unlike the joyous melodies of Christmas, Lenten music evokes a sense of introspection and reconciliation, offering a powerful opportunity for personal growth and connection with the divine. The concert's title underpins the symbolism of this important time in the Christian calendar. Agnus Dei, Lamb of God, symbolises Christ's sacrifice and enduring love, reminding us of the hope and promise that culminates with His resurrection.
The audience can expect a diverse and captivating selection of sacred music expertly delivered by Schola Cantorum Jubilate, SCJ Youths, pianist Milica Lawrence, and organist Joseph Camilleri, all under the direction of Marouska Attard.
The concert features renowned Renaissance motets by Palestrina, Victoria, Gibbons, and Anerio, alongside contemporary choral pieces by Gjeilo, Forrest, Chillcot, and Leavitt. The concert also spotlights the beloved "Even When He is Silent" by Arnesen, with the SCJ Youth Choir showcasing their budding vocal prowess with pieces by Webbe and Elgar.
"There is so much to sing about when it comes to Lent and Passiontide: it is rather a daunting task to choose the repertoire as so much has been written," says Marouska Attard, SCJ's conductor, soprano and the only Maltese graduate in choral conducting. "We aim to present both familiar masterpieces and introduce new compositions, because there is so much to discover and unveil in the realm of Lenten music."
The choir's projects are set in music, burgeoning each note using additional artistic elements. SCJ strives to create an unforgettable concert experience through innovative visuals and in the case of Agnus Dei, also specially-commissioned contemplative literature by author and critic Matthew Sultana. "Our mission is to sing - like all other choirs - but we venture a bit further," explains Stefan Attard, SCJ's artistic director. "We use the time and space to help our choristers develop their abilities, discover new pieces and ultimately, share the power of music and art with our audience, creating a truly unique and meaningful experience."
Don't miss this opportunity to immerse yourself in the beauty and depth of sacred masterpieces, literature, and visual representations at Agnus Dei. Entrance to the concert is free and no booking is required.
Agnus Dei is being organised in collaboration with the Cultural Heritage Directorate within the Ministry for Gozo and Planning.