Opera can open a window for children from disadvantaged backgrounds and show them an alternative way to the social problems around them, according to Joseph Calleja.

The ‘Maltese Tenor’ was speaking earlier today about the work of the BOV Joseph Calleja Foundation while announcing details of his annual concert, to be held on August 3 at the Luxol Grounds in Pembroke.

Mr Calleja will be accompanied on stage by a number of up-and-coming Maltese opera singers – many of whom have benefited from the foundation’s support – including Cliff Zammit Stevens, Nico Darmanin and Marvic Monreal.

The concert will also feature the Malta Philharmonic Orchestra, local band Red Electrick and acclaimed American songstress Anastacia.

“When I started out, there was nobody working professionally in opera,” Mr Calleja said, addressing the press fresh after arriving from a concert in Hannover yesterday. “Now we have more than half a dozen young people making names for themselves, and acting as ambassadors for Malta.”

Mr Calleja also said the concert would serve as a tribute to his former mentor Paul Asciak, who passed away earlier this year.

“My annual concert in Malta is always the most important date in my calendar, and the one closest to my heart,” Mr Calleja said. “It’s also the one with the most pressure: if I mess it up I’ll have to hear about it all year.”

Also speaking during the press conference, Malta Tourism Authority CEO Paul Bugeja said events like the upcoming concert represented added value for tourists visiting Malta, and should become an integral part of the country’s brand.

He added that the concert, which will be aired on Sky Arts in the UK as well as other television channels across the world, would serve as valuable advertising for Malta overseas.

As in previous years, standing tickets will be made available to the public free of charge.