Joseph LiaAs the first edition of the Malta International Organ Festival kicked off to a great start, music lovers are enjoying a wide variety of unique performances from some of the world’s leading organists in the remarkable acoustical space of several of Malta’s grandest churches.
“This festival, sponsored by the Lions Club Sliema, will celebrate the rich heritage of Malta’s historic pipe organs,” said artistic director Joseph Lia. “Some of the world’s foremost organists and opera singers are giving audiences an opportunity to experience the beauty of an instrument which only comes alive when it is played.
“ The programme puts a special accent on Maltese composers as well as international organ music,” Lia said.
The organ is one of the most valuable musical instruments in the world. It works especially well with the excellent acoustics of the cathedral, creating an unforgettable atmosphere. It leaves a great impression on listeners, enchanting and attracting musical connoisseurs from around the world.
Programme highlights this week include a performance by Vladimir Suzdalevic at the Anglican Cathedral in Valletta today; Dion Buhagiar, Francesca Buhagiar and Graziella Debattista at St Gajetan church in Ħamrun, tomorrow; Suzdalevic and Anastasia Bogacheva at the church of the Annunciation in Balzan on Tuesday; the Malta Police Band at the Anglican Cathedral on Wednesday; Libertucci and Cristaldi at St Augustine parish church, Valletta, on Thursday; Diego Cannizzaro at St John’s Co-Cathedral Oratory on Friday and Vladimir Shlipanikov and Elena Jaskunova at the Anglican Cathedral in Valletta on Saturday.
The Malta International Organ Festival runs until September 12. Entrance to the concerts is free and a full programme is available online.
www.maltaorganfestival.com