The National Philharmonic Orchestra will be taking people on a journey through movies later this month with a one-night concert featuring music from popular films.

Movie Spectacular will feature soundtracks from 17 blockbusters, including Charlie Chaplin, Lord of the Rings, Pirates of the Caribbean and Spiderman.

The concert was the brainchild of Kevin Abela, who is producing and conducting the one-night event.

Speaking during a press conference yesterday, Mr Abela admitted that his passion for movie music goes back to when he was a young boy.

The first Movie Spectacular was held last year by the Pure Brass Quintet, which was founded by the musician the year before. This year's event, on May 31 at the Mediterranean Conference Centre, will be on a much larger scale with Mr Abela directing the Malta Philharmonic Orchestra. A diverse repertoire of music was selected to appeal to all audiences.

Orchestra chairman Lino Attard reiterated this, saying that the aim of the event was to attract people who are not usually interested in classical music.

Culture Minister Dolores Cristina expressed her belief that music, culture and art should not be elitist but rather accessible to everyone. She stressed the importance of opening the doors to all.

She mentioned the importance of the national orchestra, which has 18 confirmed concerts planned for the next 12 months.

Bookings for the event will open today. More information can be found by accessing the orchestra's website at www.maltaorchestra.com or by phoning on 7934 4355.