Gita Furber de la Fuente, Balzan
A life of continuous inspiration
Much has already been written about this composer's life and works, but much remains still to be voiced and discovered. Charles Camilleri was that unique combination of child-like simplicity and complex thought. With both feet firmly on the ground he very soon progressed towards a more detached state of mind, and this he expressed so remarkably in his compositions.
His whole concept of the world and of the universe went through a number of phases, starting with his native Mediterranean period.
Then, like a butterfly struggling to emerge from its cocoon, he distanced himself from the traditional and the academic, reaching for a more abstract dimension.
This he achieved, yet the texture of his compositions was still somewhat "earth-bound", both in thought and in expression, and one can feel and follow his struggle to free himself from any remaining fetters which might have tied him down and impeded his flight to freedom.
This is where his beautiful and pure visionary works started emerging. He explained to me once how his thoughts became ethereal and how these were translated into sounds and silences, often, as he said, "putting order into chaos".
To have been associated with Charles has not only been a great honour for me but has also greatly enriched my musical awareness. He will be very sadly missed and his demise will be a great loss to music all over the world.
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Joe Xuereb
Jan 22nd 2009, 14:45
I remember seeing his picture - with his accordeon - in 'Il-Berqa' when I was a child. How proud and excited I felt that he was making a name for himself abroad. Little did I know then that decades later, I would be seeking CDs of his compositions in HMV on Oxford Street. My first acqquisition was an LP with a beautiful painting of an angel by an artist called Petre` (if Iam not mistaken). That was the start. Thank you Maestro. You have left us a wonderful legacy. You achieved what you set out to achieve. Thank you.
vincent a galea
Jan 22nd 2009, 11:21
What a great tribute to Charles Camilleri! Coming from a very distinctive musical lady herself, it really means a lot.
I still remember how as a child I enjoyed his humble beginnings playing the accordian in the programme for farmers on Rediffusion on Sunday mornings, many, many moons ago.
Profs Charles Camilleri has definitely put Malta on the world map of music with his distinctive compositions for various musical instruments. We must immediately commence arrangements to ensure that his name is etched in our proud history.