One of tenor Joseph Calleja’s fondest dreams will come true this summer when he accompanies Lucio Dalla in singing his famous song Caruso in front of a Maltese audience.

They will be performing with famed soprano Hayley Westenra on July 9 at the Granaries in Floriana.

This live music bonanza will see a fusion of classical music and some of the most well-loved Italian pop, including three “surprise” pieces.

“Joseph Calleja’s numerous achievements overseas and the high regard in which he is held within international classical music circles make him one of Malta’s greatest ambassadors,” Culture Parliamentary Secretary Mario de Marco said during a press conference at Palazzo Parisio, Naxxar.

Mr Calleja has placed Malta on the map of classical music and next month he will be launching his third solo recital disc, The Maltese Tenor.

Dr de Marco commended him as “a Maltese icon who symbolises Maltese creativity”. He said this album would help market Malta abroad.

Mr Calleja’s concerts, he added, always provide room for other local talent and he encouraged young Maltese artistes to follow his example. Mr Calleja said these events had a ripple effect on the artistes’ families. It always amused him how much energy parents dedicated to their children who formed part of choirs taking part in such concerts. “What could personify the Maltese talent ­better than our children?” he asked.

Italian pop icon Lucio Dalla has carved out a strong international following with timeless singles such as Attenti all’Lupo, Com’e` Profondo ‘l Mare and L’Anno Che Verra. His album DallAmeriCaruso, whichlaunched the world-renowned Caruso, covered by Luciano Pavarotti, sold more than nine million copies.

Unicef’s youngest ambassador and New Zealand-born Hayley Westenra took the world by storm with her versatile repertoire that ranges from classical favourites to folk song and pop.

Aged 16, she released her double platinum CD, Pure, which became the fastest selling debut album from a classical artiste, making it to the top 10 in the pop charts of 11 countries. Her albums have sold more than four million copies worldwide.

The concert is being organised by NnG Promotions and the main sponsors are HSBC, Vodafone and Malta International Airport. Pre-sale seated tickets will be available to those registered on www.nngpromotions.com at a €10 discount until Wednesday. Regular tickets, starting at €35, will be on sale from Wednesday.