In the heart of Valletta, at the bustling St. George’s Square, the fountain’s water seems to flow a little slower today. News has reached the island that Dame Felicity Lott, our very own British soprano who made Malta her home, has passed away at the age of 79. The opera world mourns, and Malta, her adopted home, echoes with a collective sigh.

Dame Felicity’s journey to Malta began in the 1970s when she first visited the island for a concert. It was love at first sight, or rather, love at first listen. The unique acoustics of St. John’s Co-Cathedral in Valletta captivated her, and she knew she had found her musical haven. She bought a house in the quaint village of Mdina, where she spent countless summers, immersing herself in the local culture and history.

Her Maltese friends recall her as a woman of warmth and wit, always ready with a joke or a story. She was a familiar figure in Mdina’s narrow streets, often seen popping into local shops or enjoying a coffee at one of the village’s cafes. She was not just a visitor; she was a part of the community.

Dame Felicity’s operatic career spanned over five decades. She performed in the world’s most prestigious opera houses, from Covent Garden to La Scala. Yet, she remained deeply connected to Malta, often returning to perform at the Teatru Manoel in Valletta. Her rendition of Mozart’s “Dove sono” at the Manoel in 2015 left audiences spellbound, a testament to her enduring talent.

Her contributions to Maltese culture were recognized in 2017 when she was awarded the Order of Merit by the President of Malta. The award was a fitting tribute to a woman who had given so much to the island and its people.

Dame Felicity may have left us, but her legacy lives on in the hearts of those who knew her and in the walls of the places she loved. Her home in Mdina stands as a testament to her love for Malta, and her performances at the Teatru Manoel will forever be etched in the memories of those who were lucky enough to witness them.

As we say goodbye to Dame Felicity Lott, let us remember her not with tears, but with smiles and laughter. Let us remember her as she was – a woman of warmth, wit, and extraordinary talent. And let us remember her love for Malta, a love that transcended borders and languages, a love that will echo through the streets of Valletta and the halls of Mdina for generations to come.

Rest in peace, Dame Felicity. Your music will continue to fill the air, and your spirit will forever be a part of Malta.