Gozo’s Schola Cantorum Jubilate will this week present an audio-visual interpretation of Allegri’s Miserere, filmed at Ta’ Pinu National Shrine.

The music video captures the essence of Holy Week and the plea for God’s mercy found in Psalm 50, which the Miserere is based on.

The composition, written by Gregorio Allegri in 1638 during the reign of Pope Urban VIII, was originally performed during the Tenebræ services of Holy Week in the Vatican.

It was written for two choirs, of five and four voices respectively, who sing alternatively, eventually combining at the ending.

The Miserere was written exclusively for the Sistine Chapel and evolved along the years through different composers. In this audio-visual feature, music critic Joseph Camilleri delves into the intricacies of its history and its musical importance.

Bible Scholar Mgr. Dr. Joseph Sultana analyses the text of the piece and its meaning in Christian faith.

Schola Cantorum Jubilate then delivers the Miserere, surrounded by the unique architecture of Ta’ Pinu National Shrine.

Founded in 2000, Schola Cantorum Jubilate specialises in sacred polyphony and classical music, with special attention given to contemporary and local pieces.

The choir has performed extensively, both locally and internationally in high calibre performances and prestigious venues, including St. Peter’s Basilica in the Vatican, St. Stephen’s Cathedral in Vienna, St. Mark’s Duomo in Venice, and St. Vito’s Cathedral in Prague.

The Miserere is their first audio-visual piece following their virtual, drive-in concert during the pandemic.

Artistic Director Stefan Attard explained how the choir recorded this audio-visual interpretation with the aim of reaching a wider, international audience with a passion for sacred music.

“At the same time, we are highlighting this genre of music, all while promoting local talent on an international platform,” he said.

The release of Miserere coincides with Holy Week, a timely tribute to the most important Christian celebration.

The audio-visual feature will be available for viewing on both local and international television channels, with first viewings as follows:

Thursday 6th April at 17.30 on TVM

Friday 7th April at 13:30 on TVM News+

Friday 7th April at 23:00 on TVM News+

Saturday 8th April at 22:15 on TVM

The audio-visual feature will also be streamed on the choir’s Facebook page on:

Thursday 6th April at 17.30 and 20.30

Friday 7th April at 11.00 and 21.00

Miserere was filmed in 4K by CVC media, under the artistic direction of Stefan Attard and the musical direction of Marouska Attard, with audio production by Richard Grech.

Schola Cantorum Jubilate’s Miserere was produced with the support of the Cultural Heritage Directorate within the Ministry for Gozo.

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