An oratorio titled Marija fil-Qalb Maltija (Mary in the Maltese Heart) has been composed by Alfred Massa, with a musical arrangement by Hermann Farrugia Frantz.

The oratorio was inspired by an exhortation of Pope Francis to “learn from Mary and imitate her unconditional readiness to receive Christ in her life”. With this in mind, the author traces various episodes in human history, from what took place in the Garden of Eden to the time of the annunciation in Nazareth.

The oratorio is also intended as a Maltese tribute to Mary. It narrates the story of how the deep affection the Tarxien Neolithic inhabitants had for the Fat Lady as a fertility symbol, developed into a deep love for Mary.

The oratorio is to be performed by the Malta Philharmonic Orchestra together with soprano Miriam Cauchi, mezzo soprano Marvic Monreal, tenor Cliff Zammit Stevens, baritone Alfred Camilleri, narrator Melina Cornish and the Coro Bel Canto, under the direction of the composer himself.

Marija fil-Qalb Maltija will be performed on April 30 at 7.30pm at the Tarxien parish church and on May 2 at the Mdina cathedral, also at 7.30pm. For more information call on 9945 3555 or send an e-mail to oratorju14@yahoo.com.

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