Harmony in Stone: Scottish Choir to Grace St. Lawrence Collegiate Church

Imagine the echoes of bagpipes resonating through the narrow streets of Vittoriosa, Malta’s historic Three Cities. Now, picture those pipes replaced by the melodious voices of a Scottish choir, filling the ancient halls of St. Lawrence Collegiate Church. This unique cultural exchange is set to take place this Saturday, as the Dunblane Cathedral Choir travels to Malta to perform at the 15th-century church.

From Dunblane to Vittoriosa

The Dunblane Cathedral Choir, hailing from the picturesque town of Dunblane in Scotland, will be bringing their unique blend of traditional and contemporary choral music to Malta. Led by Director of Music, Christopher McMinn, the choir has performed in some of Europe’s most prestigious venues, from Westminster Abbey to the Vatican. Their visit to Malta is part of a cultural exchange programme, fostering musical ties between the two countries.

For those unfamiliar with Vittoriosa, it’s a gem of a town located on the Grand Harbour. Its winding streets and historic buildings offer a glimpse into Malta’s rich history. St. Lawrence Collegiate Church, with its stunning architecture and acoustics, is the perfect setting for this musical event.

What to Expect

The choir will be performing a mix of sacred and secular music, including works by Scottish composers like James MacMillan and John Tavener. They’ll also be singing pieces by Maltese composers, a nod to their hosts and a chance for the audience to discover local musical talent.

One of the highlights of the evening will be a piece composed specifically for this event by Maltese composer, Alex Vella Gregory. Titled ‘Vittoriosa’, the piece is inspired by the town’s history and architecture, promising to be a unique blend of Maltese and Scottish musical traditions.

Joining the Harmony

If you’re planning to attend, here are the details you need: The concert starts at 7:30 PM on Saturday, 25th March. Tickets are €10 and can be purchased at the door. The church is located in the heart of Vittoriosa, just off the main square. If you’re driving, there’s plenty of parking available in the surrounding streets.

After the concert, why not explore Vittoriosa’s charming streets? Grab a bite at one of the local restaurants or enjoy a drink at a traditional Maltese pub. It’s the perfect way to end an evening filled with music and history.

So, mark your calendars and get ready to experience a unique blend of Scottish and Maltese culture. This is an event not to be missed!