Choir | O Vos Omnes

Cappella Sanctae Catharinae, Malta’s only male choir, will be celebrating the 400th anniversary from the death of the Spanish composer Tomas Luis de Victoria with a special concert dedicated to his life and works.

The concert, which will take place today (Friday 25) at the Jesuit Church in Merchant’s Street, Valletta and Saturday, March 26, at the Oratory, Parish Church in Bormla will feature works by Victoria and his contemporaries. Both concerts start at 19:30.

Tomas Luis de Victoria was one of the leading figures of the Counter-Reformation in Spain. His music is marked by a highly emotive style which brings together drama with spirituality.

This style was in line with the liturgical reforms of the Council of Trent which sought to purify sacred music from what were considered impure elements.

The programme will also feature music by his predecessors as well as contemporaries, including Palestrina, Guerrero and Morales.

The main item on the programme is a set of six Responsoria for Holy Week which illustrate vividly several moments from Christ’s passion.

Entrance to these concerts is free, but a donation towards to the needs of both churches is greatly appreciated.