Beethoven’s may be more popular and better known, but Rockestra’s fifth – edition, that is – is just as noteworthy in the local cultural calendar.
The event offers an annual appointment that has grown from strength to strength with each passing year, drawing crowds that just seem to multiply with each edition.
This year’s concert also happens to be the last under the current presidency, and so promises to even more special than ever, bringing together the largest number of local artists that Rockestra has ever had under one roof.
The programme is expected to deliver a repertoire packed with popular songs, and will be accompanied as always by the Malta Philharmonic Orchestra under the direction of Sigmund Mifsud.
As with last year’s edition, Paul Borg Bonaci is in charge of the concert’s artistic direction. The musician will be presenting a line-up that will draw in the crowds while also raising funds for people in need, which is what the event organisers, the Malta Community Chest Fund, constantly strive for.
Commenting about the concert, Borg Bonaci said it took a lot of work from many volunteers to stage a concert such as this, “but every minute of it is worth it once the day comes, you hear the first musical notes trickle out, and it all kicks into action”.
Certainly, the concert’s philanthropic aims help to rally the Maltese people’s support. But further to that, its focus on local talent is also a big part of the attraction.
“Emerging artists have the opportunity to share the stage with some of Malta’s most popular singers, such as Ira Losco, Ivan Grech (Winter Moods), Kevin Borg, Matt Borg (Red Electrik) and Konrad Pule (Scar),” Borg Bonaci said in a comment.
Asked to reveal what songs one should expect to hear at this year’s Rockestra, he mentioned a number of bands and artists, among them Aerosmith, Alanis Morisette, Queen, Labrinth, Pink Floyd, The Police, Robbie Williams and INXS, but stopped short of saying who would be singing what.
“There will also be a number of instrumental pieces performed by the orchestra.”
Rockestra will be held on September 14 at the Malta Fairs and Conferences Centre, Ta’ Qali, under the distinguished patronage of President George Abela and Mrs Abela. The event is supported by the Parliamentary Secretariat for Culture and Local Government, Good Causes Fund, Malta Tourism Authority, Malta Fairs and Convention Centre, HSBC Bank, Banif Bank, Bank of Valletta, Vodafone, Tumas Group and Hard Rock Café.
Standing tickets cost €10 (adults) and €2 (children) and can be bought online or from the Malta Community Chest Fund offices in Valletta and at San Anton Palace, Attard, between 9am and 2pm and from the President’s Kitchen Garden from 10am to 2pm and from 6 till 10pm. For further information call on 2122 6226.
www.rockestra.org