The Malta Philharmonic Orchestra (MPO) is performing in Rome on Saturday joined by the Coro dell’ Accademia Nazionale di Santa Cecilia.

Under the baton of principal conductor Brian Schembri, this is the first in a series of international concerts for the MPO who will be performing Beethoven’s Missa Solemnis in the beautiful surroundings of the Basilica of San Paolo Fuori le Mura. Soprano Jacquelyn Wagner, alto Eva Vogel, tenor Daniel Kirch and bass Gerd Grochowski take on the main roles, with Carmine Lauri as guest leader of the orchestra.

This year’s crib in St Peter’s Square was created by Gozitan artist Manwel Grech, chosen through a competition organised by the Ministry for Culture in collaboration with Heritage Malta and with the support of the Maltese Archdiocese. This is the first time that a foreign country is in charge of this prestigious crib since the inception of this tradition back in 1982. The concert is part of the celebrations for this special occasion.

■ The concert on Saturday starts at 8pm, although patrons are encouraged to arrive by 7pm so as to clear security prior to entering. Entrance is free.