Former pupils of Giovanna Bascetta, LRSM, gathered in Cynthia Turner’s studio to remember her and celebrate her life.

It was an intimate reception of around 35 people who all knew and loved ‘Zia Gio’. Earlier, a portrait of her was commissioned and painted by well-known artist Mary de Piro and was on display.

All admired the great likeness to a beloved teacher. Her family were among the guests, as well as Michael Grech and Kenneth Zammit Tabona from the management of the Manoel Theatre.

The portrait will hang at the Manoel Museum for Maltese artists. Baron Nicholas de Piro and his wife Ding were also present.

Turner introduced the evening, reading out anecdotes from the letters she had received from pupils. The portrait was funded by many of Zia Gio’s pupils.

Champagne was drunk in memory of Zia Gio and Mary Camilleri née Refalo played Traumerei by Robert Schumann. It was a special occasion and a celebration cake was cut in her memory.

The marvellous teacher will always be remembered for her inspiring teaching and the love she showed her pupils.