SONGS FOR HAPPINESS!

Barocco Foundation in collaboration with Din l-Art Helwa invites you to an enchanting lunchtime concert at Our Lady of Victory church, Valletta on Tuesday 21 May 2024.  This delightful concert features talented soprano Cledia Micallef accompanied by British pianist and composer Tom Armitage.

Vincenzo Bellini’s "Ma rendi pur contento" and "Per Pieta`, Bell'Idol Mio" open this intriguing programme followed by "Malinconia, Ninfa Gentile" also by V. Bellini which carries a haunting melancholy.  The audience will immerse in a world of emotion and beauty by R. Schumann's "Widmung" which is a heartfelt declaration of love and H. Wolf's "Das Verlassene Mägdlein" with its evocative storytelling and rich musical textures.

This captivating recital continues with the timeless ode to the power and beauty, "An die Musik" by F. Schubert, while G. Faure's "Après un Rêve" takes us into a dreamlike realm with its tender melodies. Tom Armitage's piano interlude with Franck's "Prélude, Fugue et Variation" promises to be a masterful display of the pianist’s virtuosity. E. Chausson's delicate and evocative "Le Colibri" and "Les Filles de Cadix" by L. Delibes which captures the joy and allure of Spanish music will conclude this emotional recital.

The Church of Our Lady of Victory, with its painted ceiling by baroque artist Alessio Erardi, is the first church of Valletta and a magnificent setting for the cultural events. It was built by Grand Master de Valette and the Order of St John after their victory in the Great Siege of 1565.  It has been restored by Din l-Art Ħelwa, voluntary National Trust of Malta. 

After the concert, patrons are invited for free to the cellar of the church to watch a short documentary about the building, history, and the restoration of this gem. 

Songs for Happiness!: will be held at Our Lady of Victory church, Valletta on Tuesday 21 May 2024 at 12:30pm. Entrance to the concert is at a suggested donation of 10 euro.  One can obtain the tickets prior to the concert from the venue itself or by email: baroccobookings@gmail.com or phone 79680952.