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13 Dec 2006 17:21:10
A University bus driver has revealed a well-kept secret during this year’s University of Bedfordshire Christmas Carol Service – that he is in fact a professionally-trained opera singer.
Giuseppe Barile wowed the audience at this week’s service at St Pauls Church, St Pauls Square, Bedford, where he sang Italian Christmas carols and Josh Groban’s smash hit, You Raise Me Up.
He said: “Singing is a huge passion of mine and I’m lucky it comes naturally to me. Staff and students who are used to seeing me driving the University bus were really surprised by my voice and they all seemed to enjoy my performance.”
Giuseppe sings for the choir at his local Italian church, St Francesca Cabrini, in Woburn Road, but standing in front of the congregation singing a solo is a far cry from his day job driving the University shuttle bus around the town.
The singing sensation comes from a musical family and his talent was spotted at a young age by a nun in his local church in Benevento, who encouraged him to join a choir.
He later studied in Rome where he received professional training as a tenor and went on to join a band which played classical and pop music.
The 43-year-old moved to Bedford ten years ago after meeting his wife, who was born in the town, and enjoys singing whenever he can.
“I thoroughly enjoy my job as a bus driver but I’m glad that I have my music outside of work,” said Giuseppe. “I love to see the reaction from people when they hear me perform.”
Professor Kate Jacques, Pro-Vice Chancellor and Dean of the Bedford Faculty of Education and Contemporary Studies, said: “We were amazed to find out we have a trained opera singer among our staff and it was wonderful to hear him unlock his hidden talents and showcase his voice at the University Carol Service. This certainly will be a memorable occasion for those who attended.”
The service also featured the Tabernacle of Truth Gospel Choir; dance performances by students and pupils from Wootton Upper School and Bedford High; and singing by children from Queens Park Lower School.
PE graduate Michelle Rowe gave an update about student fundraising efforts to help disadvantaged pupils at a school in Malawi. Last year, the congregation gave generously to help buy much-needed equipment for the school and refurbish classrooms.
The carol service was the first under the new University of Bedfordshire and Vice Chancellor, Professor Les Ebdon, thanked everyone for attending and told the congregation the new University will work hard to get involved in community events.
Latest news» 2006» Dec» Bus driver wows congregation with operatic performance
