A Rich Musical Tradition in Malta
Malta is steeped in a vibrant culture of music, where playing and enjoying music is a social activity deeply rooted in tradition. This cultural richness is evident in the many classical, baroque, and sacred music events that enliven the island’s social calendar throughout the year. The tradition of music often begins in the local village communities, where churches play a pivotal role in teaching musical instruments, especially for brass bands prepared for local festa celebrations.
Maltese Singers
Malta has produced some exceptional singers, particularly in the realm of opera. One of the most celebrated figures is Joseph Calleja, known as “the Maltese Tenor.” Calleja’s voice, characterized by its elegant yet powerful timbre, perfectly suits the demands of both Italian and French opera. He is a prominent figure in the world of opera, regularly drawing acclaim from audiences both in Malta and internationally.
Teatru Manoel and the Royal Opera House: Musical Landmarks
Malta’s musical heritage is also enshrined in its iconic venues. Teatru Manoel, one of the oldest working theatres in Europe, is a magnificent relic of the Knights of Malta. Opened on January 19, 1732, it quickly became a hub for opera and musical performances. As Malta’s appetite for opera grew, the need for a larger venue led to the establishment of the Royal Opera House in Valletta in 1866. This grand venue became a launching pad for many world-famous singers. However, it was tragically destroyed during World War II in 1942.
Theatre model (Anger is a lazy form of grief).
Installation and performance by artist Austin Camilleri: Le Iva (2021/2022).
Photo by Brian Grech, courtesy Austin Camilleri
In 2013, the ruins of the Royal Opera House were transformed by architect Renzo Piano into an open-air theatre. This modern venue, with a seating capacity of 1,000, blends history with contemporary design, offering a magical setting for performances.
Music Festivals in Malta
Malta hosts several prestigious music festivals throughout the year, celebrating various genres and eras:
- Valletta Baroque Festival (January): Organized by Festivals Malta and directed by Kenneth Zammit Tabona, this festival features some of the finest baroque soloists and ensembles. Valletta Baroque Festival
- Malta Spring Festival (April): Founded by artistic director Karl Fiorini in 2005, this festival is known for its innovative programming, showcasing both classical and contemporary works. Malta Spring Festival
- ConTempo (All Year Round): A concert series focusing on 20th-century chamber music and contemporary compositions, featuring Maltese and Malta-based artists. ConTempo
- Victoria International Arts Festival (June/July): Held in Victoria, Gozo, this is Malta’s longest-running festival of orchestral, choral, and chamber music, founded in 1997 by Mro Joseph Vella. VIAF
Live Your Passion for Opera in Gozo
Gozo, Malta’s smaller sister island, boasts an extraordinary concentration of opera houses—two within 100 meters of each other in Victoria. Despite its small population of 30,000, Gozo hosts performances of classical opera each year, with each venue contributing to a friendly rivalry that enhances the cultural life of the island.
- Aurora Theatre: With a capacity of 1,600, this Italian-style theatre is a major cultural hub in Gozo.
- Astra Theatre: Smaller but equally significant, Astra seats 1,000 and is home to a dynamic philharmonic society.
Each theatre presents an opera annually, usually in October, drawing on the talents of local residents and international soloists. The orchestras are of the highest quality, with choirs, costumes, and a large number of local extras contributing to the productions. The entire community participates, making these performances a source of pride and social cohesion in Gozo.
A Lyric Escape in October
October is an ideal time to visit Malta, with warm, summery weather complementing the opera season in Gozo. The atmosphere at the opera houses is festive, with elegantly dressed patrons adding to the sense of occasion. The performances are an immersive experience in Maltese culture, offering a unique blend of artistic excellence and local tradition.
Travel Tip from Senglea: For a scenic and quick journey to Gozo, take the Gozo Fast Ferry from Valletta. The 45-minute boat trip offers stunning views, but be sure to check the weather forecast the evening before to avoid cancellations. Once in Mgarr, a bus or taxi will take you directly to Victoria.
Malta’s rich musical heritage, vibrant festivals, and passionate commitment to the arts make it a must-visit destination for lovers of opera, baroque, and sacred music.
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