International conductor Wayne Marshall was appointed artistic director for Valletta’s bid for the title of European Capital of Culture, the Valletta 2018 Foundation said.

His appointment marks an important step in establishing the capital’s promotional team.

Foundation chairman David Felice said: “Wayne Marshall’s extraordinary achievements on a global level give Valletta’s application that necessary cutting edge for the delivery and implementation of the programme.”

His international career and passion for culture and the arts made him an ideal candidate for this important role, which required setting the highest artistic standards, Mr Felice said.

Mr Marshall was chosen following an open call advertised both here and internationally.

The appointment of the artistic director was crucial, particularly in view of his role in directing the preparation and formulation of the cultural programme around which the bid would be centred, the foundation said.

His duties will include leading the design, planning, implementation of artistic projects and programme, many of which have been proposed over the past months.

The director must also oversee the development of the cultural programme in a coherent manner, based on a clear vision.