Premiere of Oratorio “Canticum Vitae” – (Song of Life) a celebration of Inclusion at St John’s Co-Cathedral
St John’s Co-Cathedral was packed for the Premiere of the Oratorio “Canticum Vitae” (Song of Life). The Oratorio, which was a celebration of Inclusion, was executed in style by the Malta Philharmonic Orchestra under the baton of the composer himself, Mro Hermann Farrugia Frantz. Also taking part were soprano Francesca Aquilina, tenor Charles Vincenti and baritone Alfred Camilleri accompanied by the Cor Bel Canto.
In a short address, Archbishop Mgr Charles J. Scicluna referred to the text of ‘Canticum Vitae’ so beautifully gelled together by Mgr Lawrence Gatt, ex-Director of Id-Dar tal-Providenza. The Archbishop asserted that it has the wisdom of the Word of God that illustrates how beautiful it is to be together, to be brethren together. Id-Dar tal-Providenza is indeed a monument to this profound feeling of fraternal inclusion. It is a glorious aspect of the Church in Malta. It also reflects the emphasis that Pope Francis makes so often in all his gestures and in his words. Archbishop Scicluna stressed that the Church in Malta is committed that the Word of Christ always translates itself in beauty and charity.
Fr Martin Micallef, Director of Id-Dar tal-Providenza, introduced the Oratorio ‘Canticum Vitae’ by saying that the Home wanted to show its small appreciation towards the Maltese and Gozitans for their continuous support making it possible to continue offering residential services of the highest quality for the needs of the human person in full respect for its dignity and rights. Fr Martin appealed to those present to enjoy the musical interpretation of the extracts from the Bible so aptly chosen by Mgr Gatt, but also to be inclusive rather than exclusive because it is a nice and warm feeling to live together as brethren. He ended by saying that we should change the Bible message of inclusion into action.
Revenue from this Premiere goes to Id-Dar tal-Providenza so that it can continue on its mission to see that residents improve and use their abilities in the best possible way so as to ensure their full participation in society.
Fr Martin thanked the Foundation of the Co-Cathedral of St John, the composer and director Mro Hermann Farrugia Frantz, Mgr Lawrence Gatt, the Malta Philharmonic Orchesta together with soloists Francesca Aquilina, Charles Vincenti and Alfred Camilleri and the Cor Bel Canto, the Malta Bible Society, Fr Nikol Aquilina, the Malta Arts Council, Mr Francis J. Vassallo, a benefactor who wished to remain anonymos, PBS, Radio RTK, One Radio and Radio 101, Mr Robert Vassallo of RJ Vidoes, Mr Pierre Portelli, Mr Joe Chetcuti, Mr Ryan Pace, the 12th May Band of Żebbuġ, and last but not least Mr Tonio Bonello.
