On Thursday, 12 June at 8pm, the artistically rich Onorati  Oratory  within the Jesuits' Church in Valletta will open its doors for a special vocal concert, Sacred Arias, presented as part of the APS Bank Valletta Campus Nights series. The event brings together music, heritage and purpose in one of Malta's most evocative sacred spaces, while also supporting a noble cause: research and innovation at the University of Malta.

This unique concert is being organised by the University's Research, Innovation and Development Trust (RIDT), with the support of APS Bank and the Jesuits Church Foundation. All proceeds from the donations will go towards locally led research initiatives across various disciplines, from science and technology to the humanities.

At the heart of the performance is baritone Joseph Lia, one of Malta's most accomplished classical vocalists, who will be accompanied on the organ by Natalia Rakhmatulina. Together, they will present a programme of sacred works that span the Baroque and Romantic periods, featuring music by J. S. Bach, Durante, Handel, Mendelssohn, Caccini, Rossini, and a contemporary Maltese addition by Joseph Fenech.

The evening will also include solo organ works performed by Rakhmatulina, chosen to complement the concert's meditative atmosphere and to take full advantage of the unique acoustics of the Onorati - a baroque oratory within the Jesuit complex that has recently undergone careful restoration.

For Lia, the setting is just as important as the music.

"I believe sacred music isn't just to be listened to - it's meant to be experienced, lived and shared in spaces that echo with history and soul," he says. "The Oratory provides that atmosphere. It invites the audience to listen with more than just their ears."

Among the programme's highlights is Mendelssohn's It is enough from Elijah, a profoundly expressive piece that explores inner struggle and divine surrender, and Rossini's Quoniam Tu Solus Sanctus, from his Petite Messe Solennelle, which blends operatic richness with devotional clarity. The concert will also feature two settings of the Ave Maria, one of which is by Joseph Fenech, underscoring the concert's connection to local identity and sacred tradition.

Both performers are graduates of the prestigious St Petersburg State Conservatory, with extensive international careers across Europe and Russia. Lia, known for his vocal expressiveness and interpretive depth, has performed in philharmonic halls, churches and theatres across the continent. Rakhmatulina, an acclaimed organist in her own right, brings refined sensitivity and clarity to her performances, making this collaboration one rooted in both professional artistry and personal harmony.

Beyond the music, Sacred Arias is a moment to reflect on the role of culture in supporting knowledge and discovery. Through the partnership with RIDT, the evening becomes a bridge between artistic inspiration and scientific innovation - inviting audiences not only to listen but to give back.

Attendance is by donation, and seats are limited.

Bookings can be made in advance by emailing on [email protected]. Walk-ins will be accepted on the night, subject to availability.