Celebrating Through Sound and Spirit: King's Own Band Hits 150th Year & Reflections on Lenten Faith

150 Years of Melodic Heritage

Kudos to the King’s Own Philharmonic Society for an outstanding performance at their anniversary concert on February 17 at the Catholic Institute in Floriana. Commemorating 150 years since their inception, the society prepared a series of six concerts for the year, with the recent one being a showcase of musical diversity designed to captivate a broad audience.

The event was widely enjoyed, thanks to its eclectic musical choices. The performances by the talented Gabriel Arce, an internationally acclaimed tenor, and the renowned soprano, Claire Caruana, were particular highlights. Arce's renditions of E Lucevan le Stelle and Nessun Dorma from Puccini’s pen, alongside Caruana’s delivery of Straus II’s Voices of Spring, were nothing short of exceptional.

The duo then proceeded with a stirring duet performance of Parigi O Cara and Brindisi by Verdi. New compositions made their Malta debut, including Pusceddu’s The King’s Own and Osorio's Cycles and Myths, which offered a modern take on the classical genre with a mixture of contemporary rhythms and calm interludes.

John Galea, the band’s director, skillfully conducted the night, which concluded with a tribute piece Omaggio alla King’s Own by the band’s former legendary director, Francesco Gobet, followed by the national anthem. Moreover, Galea celebrates a personal milestone—20 years as the King’s Own Band maestro—with a forthcoming oratorio about St Dominic scheduled for later this year.

Special commendation was also extended to Ivan Piccinino, the society’s president, for his decade-plus contributions.

Embracing the Lenten Season with Full Hearts

As Lent unfolds, the sacrifice of Jesus Christ takes center stage. His crucifixion represents the ultimate ordeal of human suffering, and yet, a demonstration of profound love meant to redeem and liberate humanity.

It was remarked that the offering of faith is not bound to wearying devotions or strenuous acts. Instead, salvation can be simply attained through a genuine conviction in Jesus’s sacrifices, as argued by Fr Stefan Attard in his article on one of the most famous verses, John 3:16.

By wholly accepting Christ's teachings, individuals may find comfort during adversities, experiencing a life uplifted by a deep sense of love. Bishop Anton Teuma’s recent reminders on living the Gospel provided further insights into perceiving God’s commandments as gifts that enrich one's existence.

The article stressed the importance of promoting such faith, which is considered a treasure that deeply influences a person's life and purpose. The beauty and profound impact of faith were hailed as unparalleled, calling for active witness to the gift that is faith.

concert, faith, anniversary