‘Exploring the traditional and artistic contribution of local bands’ was the theme of a seminar chaired by Joseph Vella at the Gozo Ministry, Victoria. It was followed by the opening of an exhibition on the same topic at the Astra Theatre by Gozo Minister Anton Refalo. A section of the display highlighted Prof. Vella’s 45 years of musical direction at the La Stella Philarmonic Society and the Astra Theatre. Photo shows Vella and the minister (second and third from left) viewing the exhibits.