Grand production planned for Calleja's 2009 concert

With glowing reviews in the wake of tenor Joseph Calleja's opening concerts to the new season, NNG Promotions has scrambled to secure the singer for next summer.

NNG is planning a bigger and better concert for July 18 following this summer's successful event.

"There will be a change in venue and format since our aim, and that of Joseph, is to present a concert that has a more populist appeal and features a variety of musical styles and artists. This will also involve a larger cast, as well as a grander production," Nigel Camilleri from NNG Promotions said.

After spending a few treasured weeks relaxing in Malta, Calleja has embarked on a whirlwind of bookings amid rave reviews that glorify the 30-year-old's artistic talents.

The Times of London sang Calleja's praises after his opener for the season at the BBC Proms at the Royal Albert Hall: "Best of all was the young Maltese tenor Joseph Calleja's unforced and open-throated ardour, soaring though the Hostias with real grace and, yes, true devotion."

The Guardian's Tim Ashley wrote that the soloists at Verdi's Requiem, led by the "great" Calleja, were exceptional, while Music Web journalist Evan Dickerson wrote: "Calleja's tenor had some of the most authentic Italianate singing produced by a non-Italian I have heard for some time... in a manner that recalled the glory days of Caruso in this music."

The next 10 months will be a busy time for the tenor, who will perform in a range of locations including Germany, Austria, Spain, Hungary and the US. The highlight of next year, however, will be his appearance at the Metropolitan Opera in New York for a special concert which will feature stars from the opera world.