If I ask you to think of Malta you’ll probably conjure up scenes of the gorgeous city of Valletta, blue seas and wonderful beaches, historical buildings, and maybe the odd knight or two. You’re probably not thinking of places to enjoy some classical music – or any music at all come to that. But you’re missing out as there really are some great places in Malta for classical music lovers. If however you’d rather explore the rest of the island, check out our previous guides to Malta.
Photo by: wins75/Fotolia
Malta’s love of music can be traced through the evolution of Għana. In its various forms, this traditional form of folk music blends signing and instruments with impromptu lyricising. Like a modern rap battle, it often involved two singers taking it in turns to try and outdo the other in a lyrical duel. Once the preserve of the island’s peasants, Għana is now primarily played by professionals at festivals or concerts.
Local talent
Maltese-born tenor Joseph Calleja has been around for a while so you may well know his name. The 38 year old has built up an enviable reputation and seen him hailed as “arguably today’s finest lyric tenor”. He’s even been compared to Pavarotti and Beniamino Gigli! Trained by Maltese legend Paul Asciak, he’s sung for world leaders such as Barack Obama and Queen Elizabeth II. Calleja has also performed alongside singers and artists including Plácido Domingo and Snoop Dogg.
What’s on in Malta?
Whatever your musical taste, Malta is bound to have an event for you. Whilst the islands are known for their classical music, in recent years Malta has carved out a reputation for hosting great new music events.
Isle of MTV: If your taste in music is more modern, you’ll find MTV’s annual Isle of MTV the perfect place to be in June (along with 50,000 other fans). Previous line-ups include will.i.am, Scissor Sisters, Lady Gaga, Flo Rida, and Nelly Furtado, whilst Jess Glynne has been named for this year’s event on June 28th.
The Malta Jazz Festival takes place every July by the Grand Harbour. This year it runs from the 22nd to the 24th and will see some of the world’s biggest and best jazz musicians descend on this tiny island.
The International Spring Orchestra Festival takes place at the Manoel Theatre in April this year and features pieces by Mozart, Britten, Haydn, Holst, and Bach.
Also taking place at the Manoel is the BOV Opera Festival. This is one of the most highly anticipated events in the Maltese calendar. With events spread between March and May, it features a range of shows from performing arts to solo recitals.
Malta’s theatres
The Manoel Theatre
More commonly known as “the Manoel”, it was named for the Grand Master of the Knights of St John; Fra António Manoel de Vilhena. Completed in 1732, the Manoel is believed to be the 3rd oldest working theatre in Europe. After the Royal Opera House was destroyed in a German air raid in 1942, it became the home of the Malta Philharmonic Orchestra. It is also considered the home of the national theatre.
Photo by: vpardi/Fotolia
It’s said the acoustics are so good, the sound of a page turning can be heard from anywhere in the auditorium!
30 minute tours are available from Monday to Saturday and cost €5.
Saint James Cavalier: Spazju Kreattiv
Originally built in the 1560’s, this former Cavalier was renovated in the 1990’s. Now home to a number of creative spaces (spazju kreattiv), Saint James Cavalier hosts cinema and literary events, and musical performances. The original structure has been enhanced with modern technical innovations to create a fantastic environment.
Mediterranean Conference Centre
It may sound like a modern concrete square but this couldn’t be further from the truth. The Mediterranean Conference Centre dates from 1574 and is built of limestone. A former hospital, it’s also served as the Malta police force HQ, survived 4 direct hits during the German air raids, and been used as a school.
In April it will host the closing concert of the International Spring Orchestra Festival with the Malta Philharmonic Orchestra taking centre stage.
Teatru Aurora, Gozo
The Aurora Theatre has been hosting theatre and opera for almost 40 years and is still as popular as ever. Home to the Leone Philharmonic Orchestra, it’s considered the leading opera theatre in the islands. This year sees The Barber of Seville, Carmen, and La Traviata coming to town so why not book now?
Get booking now!
Whatever your reasons for visiting, you’re bound to have a great time soaking up the sun and taking it easy. Get a quote to book your car hire today. Remember to sign up to our newsletter below for the latest deals in Malta. Also, don’t forget to follow us on Twitter and Facebook for the latest travel tips and news.
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