Renowned for their enchanting Christmas concerts, Schola Cantorum Jubilate is set to captivate audiences once again on the 29th of December at 7.30pm with ‘In Presepio’ at Ta’ Pinu National Shrine. This extraordinary concert commemorates the 800th anniversary of St. Francis of Assisi's creation of the first live crib, a significant moment in the history of the Christmas story.

‘In Presepio’ aims to reconstruct the nativity scene not with physical elements but through the ethereal beauty of choral music. The concert will illuminate key figures in the Christmas story, emphasising the baby, parents, manger, animals, and wise men.

Building on the success of last year's acclaimed ‘O Magnum Mysterium,’ this year's performance promises an unforgettable selection of both classic and contemporary Christmas carols. Marouska Attard, SCJ’s Conductor, soprano, and the only Maltese graduate in choral conducting, highlights the choir's commitment to presenting a fresh auditory perspective each year.

The repertoire, featuring works by Mendelssohn, Wagner, Rutter, Willcocks, and more, includes a new arrangement of the central piece in Maltese Christmas celebrations, "Ninni La Tibkix Iżjed," and a newly composed piece, "Admirabile Signum." The concert will be enriched by pianists Anna Magrin and Amy Borg, organist Joseph Camilleri, and the collaborative efforts of the SCJ Adults Group and SCJ Youths, alongside the BrassTubes.

This free event, organised in collaboration with the Cultural Heritage Directorate, Ministry for Gozo, is a harmonious tribute to the 1223 event in Greccio that shaped Christmas traditions.

‘In Presepio’ celebrates the values of peace and love, woven through the timeless medium of music and St. Francis’ enduring crib.

Will you be attending this event?