Just a couple of days after the sumptuous 50th Anniversary concert at St. George’s Basilica, a select ensemble from Chorus Urbanus delivered another refined and heartfelt Christmas performance at St Augustine Church on 20 December 2025, offering a programme that blended tradition, warmth and polished musicianship. Under the assured direction of Dr John Galea, the choir opened with a serene Christmas Lullaby before moving confidently through classics including While Shepherds Watched, Hark the Herald Angels Sing, and God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen.
Solo moments added colour and emotional contour to the evening: Marisa Galea’s tender Silent Night, Fabian Galea’s nostalgic White Christmas, and Noel Galea’s stirring lead in Adeste Fideles, all stood out for their clarity and expressive ease. The inclusion of the beloved Maltese carol Ninni la tibkix iżjed grounded the evening in local yuletide tradition, echoing the cultural spirit highlighted in the event’s announcement.
Before the final choral number, two ‘presepisti’ members Messrs Joe Theuma and George Debono were given recognition for their hard work and presented with mementos by Mr. John Mary Cassar, President of Għaqda Ħbieb tal‑Presepju Gozo-Malta. This was followed by another presentation where Mr George Borg, Vice-President of Chorus Urbanus, presented a copy of the Choir’s recent 50th anniversary publication to Mr. John Mary Cassar who commended the choir’s wholesome performance.
Set within the warm acoustics of St Augustine’s, the concert compered by Chev. Joe M. Attard, held as part of the Annual Crib Exhibition organised by Għaqda Ħbieb tal‑Presepju Gozo-Malta, achieved a balance of festive familiarity and artistic finesse. It was a compact yet memorable celebration of choral craft, seasonal joy and community spirit. The concert preceded the blessing of the Association’s fine annual exhibition within the cloisters of the Augustinian convent.
Photo credits: Mr John M. Cassar
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