Submitted by Karen L. Johnson
The Los Angeles Episcopal Chorale, under the direction of its founder Canon Dr. Charles H. Cheatham, has been invited to represent the United States in the 8th Edition of the Malta International Christmas Choir Festival — a joyful gathering of choirs from around the world, united through music, friendship, and the spirit of the season. The Episcopal Chorale is the first choir from the United States ever to be invited to this festival, marking yet another milestone in its distinguished history.
Since its inception in 1983, the Chorale has performed in festivals across Italy, Ireland, Austria and Spain, as well as toured such countries as China, Holland, Greece and Cuba, while continuing to enrich services locally across the Los Angeles Diocese.
Over several festive days this December in Malta — a small island at the heart of the Mediterranean – the Chorale will participate in ensembles and perform in some of the country’s most magnificent Baroque churches, filling them with the sounds of Christmas, sacred works, gospel, and music from their own traditions. In Malta, centuries of cultural exchange have created a rich and enduring choral tradition and, together, the choirs will add to the holiday spirit with warmth and connection.
In between performances, choir members will have the chance to experience Malta’s historic cities, glowing holiday atmosphere, and renowned hospitality.
You can help choir members spread holiday joy in Malta by donating to the Episcopal Chorale’s GoFundMe to help defray travel costs for the December 2-8, 2026, trip, which members must pay out of pocket.