Maltese Natural Heritage, Music Appreciation courses

The Foundation for International Studies is organising two short courses, one on Maltese Natural Heritage between April 18 and May 15 on Wednesdays between 5.30 and 8.30 p.m. and Saturdays between 8 a.m. and 1 p.m., and another course on Music Appreciation, which is spread over five sessions, to be held from April 10 to May 8 between 5.30 and 8.30 p.m.

Both courses will be held at the Foundation for International Studies in Valletta. The course on natural heritage aims to give participants the opportunity to improve their knowledge of the Maltese natural heritage, and to visit two locations in Ghar Lapsi and the Maghlaq coastline and Mtahleb or Wied Liemu in Rabat area, which offer unique examples of Malta's natural heritage and stunning scenery.

The course topics include: 1. the geophysical setting: geology and climate; the Mediterranean context; 2. local natural habitats; local floral diversity and affinities; and 3. local faunal diversity; human pressures on the local natural environment. The course co-ordinator is Dr Alan Deidun.

The course should be of interest to students following courses in biology, geography and environmental studies, operators in the tourism industry, journalists, and members of the public interested in Malta's natural heritage.

The course on Music Appreciation aims to give an overview of the history of music, ideals, developments and schools, reference to opera and the symphony, the contemporary repertoire (20th century music) by understanding contemporary trends, sounds and music in Malta since the 17th century.

The tutor of the course is Professor Joseph Vella, a leading composer, conductor and musicologist with an international reputation.

For more information contact the Conference Unit, FIS, on 2123-4571 or cynthia.amato@fis.org.mt.