On Sunday, 5 April 2009, Chorus Urbanus Productions presented Theodore Dubois’ The Seven Words of Christ at St. George’s Basilica in Victoria. This sacred cantata for soloists, mixed choir and ensemble was composed in 1867 and was being premiered in Malta during this concert. The soloists taking part were Yvonne Galea (soprano), Joseph Aquilina (tenor) and Alfred Camilleri (baritone). The soloists, choir and ensemble were under the musical direction of Dr. John Galea.

This cantata is presented in eight movements: an introduction for soprano followed by a movement for each word of Christ from the cross. Before each movement text in Maltese and English introducing each word of Christ was read by Carm Cachia and Tony Prescott. Ian Peter Bugeja (organ), Anne-Marie Camilleri Podesta’ (harp) and Frans Azzopardi (timpani) formed the accompanying ensemble.

The concert opened with three solo pieces: Quia Respexit – Magnificat by J.S. Bach, sung by Cara Waring (soprano), Pro Peccatis – Stabat Mater by G. Rossini sung by Noel Galea (bass) and The Holy City by S. Adams, sung by Mario Portelli (tenor), the latter accompanied by Chorus Urbanus. The performance of Dubois’ cantata then brought this concert to a fitting conclusion.

The concert was compered by Chev. Joe M Attard

A repeat performance of the concert was held at the Aula Magna at the Old University Building in Valletta on Tuesday, 7 April 2009. This performance was presented by Chorus Urbanus Productions in collaboration with The Mediterranean Institute (University of Malta). The performance commenced at 7.30pm and like the Gozo concert was very well attended.