Arias of Love and Devotion

Barocco Foundation, in collaboration with Din l-Art Ħelwa, is delighted to present a special lunchtime concert on Tuesday 27 January 2026 at 12:30pm at the magnificent Our Lady of Victory Church in Valletta. The concert features the renowned soprano Marita Bezzina, accompanied by the accomplished pianist Ramona Zammit Formosa.

Titled Arias of Love and Devotion, the programme explores evocative works celebrating love, passion and faith. It opens with Verdi’s serene La Vergine degli Angeli, followed by the composer’s deeply moving Ave Maria from Otello. The programme continues with two contrasting settings of the Ave Maria by Gibilaro and Caccini, highlighting different musical expressions of devotion. A Maltese flavour is introduced through Kanti Popolari by Charles Camilleri, before the mood lightens with Gershwin’s Summertime from Porgy and Bess. The concert concludes with Lehár’s romantic aria Tu che m’hai preso il cuor. Ramona Zammit Formosa will also provide piano solo pieces as musical interludes.

In addition to the music, audiences are invited to appreciate the Church of Our Lady of Victory, Valletta’s first church and one of Malta’s cultural treasures. Built by Grand Master de Valette after the Great Siege of 1565 and restored by Din l-Art Ħelwa, the church is renowned for its rich history and its baroque ceiling by Alessio Erardi. After the concert, patrons are welcome to visit the church cellar free of charge to view a short audio-visual presentation on the building’s history and restoration.

Arias of Love and Devotion: will be held at Our Lady of Victory Church, Valletta, on Tuesday 27 January 2026 at 12:30pm. Entrance is by a suggested donation of €13. Tickets may be obtained at the venue prior to the concert or by email at baroccobookings@gmail.com or baroccomalta@gmail.com, or by calling 7968 0952.