On Sunday, December 22, 2024, the Fontana Parish Church was the scene of a remarkable celebration as it hosted the highly anticipated concert, “Carolling the Nativity.” This event, performed by Chorus Urbanus, Chorus Urbanus Juniors, and the Urbanus Festive Orchestra, not only marked the joyous Christmas season but also celebrated the 25th anniversary of Chorus Urbanus’s dedicated service at Fontana.
The concert opened with a heartfelt rendition of “Christmas Lullaby” and “Candlelight Carol” delivered by the velvety voices of Chorus Urbanus. Their clear, pure tones set the stage for an evening filled with festive cheer and reflection. The audience was captivated from the first notes, a promising start to a magical night.
As the program continued the choir brought to life a classic ‘a cappella’ rendition of “Away in a Manger” and “While Shepherds Watched” . The performance continued with “Mary did you Know?” beautifully arranged by our director. The careful balance between the seasoned voices of Chorus Urbanus and the youthful enthusiasm of the Juniors in ‘Look at the World’ created a dynamic and engaging musical experience.
One of the evening’s highlights was the soulful performance of “O Holy Night.” The soloists’ voices resonated throughout the Sacred Heart Sanctuary, eliciting a warm response from the audience. The rich accompaniment of the Urbanus Festive Orchestra added depth and emotional intensity to the piece, making it a memorable moment.
The concert also featured a mix of traditional and contemporary carols. “Silent Night,” performed with delicate harmonies, evoked a sense of peace and nostalgia, while “Adeste Fideles’ and “Merry Christmas, Merry Christmas” concluded the evening on a jubilant and uplifting note. The inclusion of new additions to the choir’s carol repertore such as “Hymn for Christmas Day” and “Manger Throne” added a refreshing variety to the program.
Conductor Dr. John Galea’s direction was impeccable, guiding the ensemble through a well-curated program that highlighted the choir’s versatility and talent. His ability to draw out the best in both the young singers and the seasoned performers was evident in every piece, ensuring a cohesive and polished performance.
The evening was made even more special by the acknowledgment of Chorus Urbanus’s 25 years of service to the Fontana Parish community. This milestone was celebrated with heartfelt speeches and expressions of gratitude, underscoring the choir’s significant impact on the local cultural scene.
In his concluding address the Chaplain, Reverend Canon Simon Cachia stated:
"I would like to thank the Chorus Urbanus not only for the 50 years
of valuable and powerful contribution that it has given to sacred music
in our Gozo, but I would also like to thank you for the 25 years of
dedicated service given to this Shrine of the Sacred Heart here in Fontana.
I have not been here for 25 YEARS, only for 5 years, but thanks be to God
for giving me the opportunity to celebrate the main liturgies of the
liturgical year accompanied by this prestigious choir. Chorus Urbanus
gives the Sacred Liturgy a dimension that is not only heavenly but divine!
For this I thank you!
I believe that the Sacred Heart of Jesus together with the martyr St. George,
that this choir proudly brings on its ensign, but above all that you carry
in your hearts, will bless you and help you with their power to continue
giving this very valuable and great service not only here, but in Gozo,
Malta and beyond - Chorus Urbanus ad multos annos."
“Carolling the Nativity” was more than just a concert; it was a celebration of community, tradition, and the transformative power of music. The blend of sacred music, festive carols, and the spirit of volunteerism created an unforgettable evening that resonated with all who attended. The concert served as a beautiful reminder of the joy and unity that the Christmas season brings, and the enduring legacy of Chorus Urbanus in the heart of the Fontana Parish community.
Overall, the night was a resounding success, leaving the audience filled with Christmas spirit and appreciation for the rich musical heritage nurtured by Chorus Urbanus over the past 25 years.
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