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6 maltatoday | FRIDAY • 11 JULY 2025 CULTURE THE 2025 edition of the Victoria In- ternational Arts Festival culminates with a powerful and poignant cho- ral and orchestral concert, dedicat- ed to the memory of Mgr Giuseppe Farrugia (1852–1925), marking the centenary of his passing. Recognised as one of Gozo's most distinguished cultural figures, Mgr Farrugia was a visionary composer and intellectu- al whose sacred music continues to resonate deeply within the Maltese heritage. The programme features a selec- tion of reflective and richly textured works performed by the Malta Phil- harmonic Orchestra, the acclaimed Laudate Pueri Choir of St George's Basilica, and soloists. Leading the evening is Philip Walsh, conduc- tor-in-residence at VIAF. This mov- ing tribute offers a fitting close to the Festival's 28th edition. Concert Programme • Joseph Vella (1942–2018): In Memoriam, Op. 96. A solemn and heartfelt piece by one of Malta's foremost composers, written as an evocative reflec- tion on loss and remembrance. • Ralph Vaughan Williams (1872–1958): Fantasia on a Theme by Thomas Tallis. A transcendent work of spiritual depth and ancient modal beau- ty, inspired by a 16th-century English choral melody and or- chestrated with ethereal gran- deur. • Giuseppe Farrugia (1852– 1925): Missa da Requiem. Composed by Gozo's own mu- sical luminary, this Mass for the Dead blends traditional litur- gical form with romantic lyri- cism, underscoring Farrugia's unique voice in sacred music. Join in honouring a century of mu- sical legacy with this celebratory trib- ute concert in Gozo. The Victoria International Arts Festival remains committed to spotlighting Malta's rich cultural tapestry through or- chestral music, sacred works, and local composers. This special per- formance promises an unforgettable conclusion to VIAF 2025. Final choral & orchestral concert at the Victoria International Arts Festival 2025