Italian Song a Hit Posted on January 18th, 2011 by Marketing and Communication

The Italian’s hearts are warmed by the Gustavus Choir’s performance of “Illumina le tenebre.”

This Italian song, translated as “Prayer before the Crucifix” in English and composed by Joan Szymko with text from Italy’s patron St. Francis of Assisi, is an audience pleaser.

The following video captures the choir singing the piece at the Monday, Jan. 17, 2011 evening concert performance in the breath-taking Basilica di Santa Maria in Trastevere.

Gustavus Choir sings Illumina le tenebre in Italy January 2011

The historic church is a true gem located in a quaint community near the river Tevere in Rome. It is said to be the oldest Christian church in the world. Enriched through the centuries, the inside shimmers brightly with golden mosaics of Mary and Jesus.

Note: If you happened to be at this year’s Christmas in Christ Chapel at Gustavus (themed “An Italian Renaissance”) you will recognize this song.