I have recently had the pleasure to attend the President’s private concert at San Anton Palace, Attard. It was held under the patronage of President George Abela who welcomed all his guests with an art exhibition brilliantly put together by the curators of the National Museum of Fine Arts who selected art pieces from local and foreign artists alike to tell the story of Jesus’ last few days on mortal earth, prior to his death and assumption to the heavens.

The exhibition was followed by live singing of Lenten tunes marvellously performed by Schola Cantorum Jubilate, the Gozitan choir led by Stefan Attard and directed by Marouska Attard. This was the first time the choir performed in the palace, which struck everyone, including the President, as a very odd occurrence. The choir has come to enjoy high esteem from lovers and promoters of classical, sacred and chamber music alike.

The choir, which has performed in various countries, has the special ability of touching its listeners’ souls and tingling their spines. I, like so many others, I am sure, have nothing but words of praise and great admiration for its members, who never fail to amaze me.