Admission is free, with tickets reserved through Virgin Ticketing Box Office.

December 2025 marks a historic double celebration: the 150th anniversary of USJ and the 10th anniversary of the USJ Choir. To honor the meeting of these two legacies, we are immensely proud to unveil, in a world premiere, our very first commissioned work: “Au Coeur de Notre Terre”, an Oratorio for USJ. This vibrant tribute serves as a heartfelt homage to this iconic institution, which has been the very soul of the USJ Choir.

Now famous for its bold repertoire that marries classical music with an eclectic array of genres (Jazz, Rock, World Music), the USJ Choir continues its mission: to push its own limits, champion new creation and promote Lebanese composers.

Composed by the talented Lucas Sakr on words by a collective of passionate USJ professors, this Oratorio is a stunning fusion, bringing together Western choral traditions and oriental rhythms and instruments, all integrated with contemporary harmonies. You will also recognize traditional Maronite melodies inserted into the texture through an orchestral language that explores new soundscapes crafted specially for this work. The Oratorio also explores exciting new ways to integrate the quarter tone into the rich harmonic language of the piece, truly pushing the boundaries of harmony.

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Choir

Le Choeur de l'USJ

ORCHESTRA

The USJ Symphony Orchestra

CREDITS

Yasmina Sabbah | Conductor

Fanny Utiger | Soprano

Simon Ruffieux | Baritone

Gilbert Rahbani | Baritone

Hatem Sidani | Narrator