Maltese tenor Joseph Calleja was nominated in the best opera recording category for his role in a production of Verdi’s La Traviata but the award went to Doctor Atomic (Metropolitan Opera Orchestra and chorus).

However, Mr Calleja yesterday promised to do his best to eventually get a Grammy award to Malta.

Writing on his Facebook page Mr Calleja said: “Woke up to the news that Dr Atomic scooped top honours in our category. Congratulations to all the cast especially Gerald Finley! A huge BRAVA to lovely Joyce Didonato for her win! I know that many Maltese wanted this to be “our” first Grammy and I can assure you that I will do my very best to eventually give this honour to our island...”

Mr Calleja, who has just been pronounced the first cultural ambassador to Malta, was not present for the awards ceremony because of other professional engagements.

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