We are family

Founded by Eurovision singer Glen Vella in 2008 and made up of 23 singers – including Debbie Scerri, Amber, Pamela Bezzina, Leontine Spiteri and Nadine Axisa – Animae Gospel Choir is getting ready for its third national concert.

“It’s already been well over three years since our last big concert,” says Christian Borg, producer of the Animae Gospel Choir in Concert 2015 and director of Entertainment.com.mt, which are organising the event. “We can’t wait for people to see what we’ve put together for them this time round!”

Since their last concert in 2012, the Animae Gospel Choir has been busy. The singers performed an a capella arrangement of the Maltese national anthem, prepared especially for the 40th anniversary celebrations since Malta became a republic. The choir was chosen by President Marie Louise Coleiro Preca to sing at Westminster Cathedral in London for Malta Day 2014 and even travelled to Italy to perform under the direction of internationally acclaimed artists.

“We have been rehearsing for over a year now and Pamela Bezzina, who is the choir’s vocal director and arranger, has come up with an incredibly varied programme that includes gospel classics and popular fan favourites for the performance nights,” says Christian.

On top of the 23 singers who make up the choir, the concert will also feature a seven-piece live band with musical arrangements by Kris Spiteri as well as a hand-picked choir of some 70 children. I caught up with Glen Vella to find out more.

How was the choir founded?

Animae was founded in 2008 after I shared a thought and a desire with Pamela and Leontine. I was inspired by the Soweto gospel choir after I saw them performing during a concert at the Carre’ Theatre in The Netherlands.

Delivering feel-good factor to audiences through singing and movement

What is the aim behind it?

To deliver that feel-good factor to audiences through singing and movement. For us it is a must that we sing songs that people can relate to. It is hard to explain in words but the feeling when singing in harmony with the choir is unique. One has to experience it in person to understand it. Animae’s motivation is always evolving because we are not just a choir. We are family. We spend a lot of time together, we laugh and we cry together... and this helps keep us motivated and feeling passionate towards the project.

A number of members of your choir, including yourself, have taken part in the Eurovision song contest. How does being part of Animae compare to the Eurovision?

Both events are great fun and, of course, they do share something in common. A love for music. However, if I had to compare, the first thing that comes to my mind is the element of competition. You don’t find the element of competition in Animae, while with the Eurovision it is a totally different story.

How was your first experience presenting this concept to the Maltese public?

Tremendously exciting for all of us... one that we remember fondly to this date. I can still see the people’s faces when we started singing during our debut Mass at Fleur de Lys church, which was the venue for our first performance. Honestly, we were literally crying with joy, everyone hugging each other by the time Mass finished. It was priceless.

How has the choir and concept changed since then?

The concept never changed. Animae always focused on singing positive songs, while moving to the rhythm. However, like families do, Animae developed and matured by time. We started with nine members and now we are 22 singers – and I’m glad to say that eight of these initial members still form part of the choir today. We are a big, joyful family with multi-talented individuals which eventually produces the sound of Animae.

Is there anything in particular to look out for in your upcoming concert?

We rehearse hard to provide the best musical experiences for the people. Be prepared for another rhythmic journey in harmony with Animae Gospel Choir. We can’t wait to share this new programme with the audience.

Animae Gospel Choir in Concert 2015 takes place on October 30 and 31 at the Mediterranean Conference Centre, Valletta. Tickets are available by calling on 2559 5750 or online.

www.mcc.com.mt