Preparations are in full swing to bring together three of the biggest international names in the music industry and Malta’s top talent in two back-to-back concerts, one featuring Michael Bolton and Joseph Calleja, the other Italian songstress Laura Pausini.

Michael Bolton and Joseph Calleja will get together with a selection of songs that are well-loved by everyone. Winter Moods front man Ivan Grech and singer Chiara will also be taking on the stage, together with soprano Gillian Zammit.

Organisers NnG have hinted at an evening that would have everybody singing and dancing along to the music, whether their preference happens to be classical or pop.

Also taking the stage on July 19 is Paul Bateman, the maestro who will be replacing conductor Gimenez due to unforeseen circumstances.

Bateman, who is also one of the most sought after Hollywood conductors, has conducted over 30 albums of film music throughout his career.

About 200 children aged between seven and 15 are also being given the opportunity to accompany Bolton and Calleja during the concert. Following a nation-wide call for auditions, which attracted an amazing response, a choir was identified, with rehearsals, led by Gillian Zammit, taking place on a weekly basis

Two days after this concert, on July 21, Laura Pausini will take to the stage at Luxol.

Pausini currently enjoys massive popularity throughout Europe, especially in Austria, where her latest hit, Primavera in Anticipo, which she performs together with James Blunt, currently occupying the Number 1 position, and the album remaining in the top 10.

Album sales also earned her a Wind Music Award during this year’s edition of the awards at the Arena di Verona.

Like all of Pausini’s concerts, the Malta performance is expected to give the audience a spectacular sound and a light show that is more like a full-blown theatrical experience as opposed to a run of the mill concert. Pausini is well-known for her interaction with the audience and has also been known to get off the stage and walk around while singing for her fans.

The Calleja Bolton concert is on July 19 and that of Laura Pausini on July 21. Both are at the Luxol Grounds. Tickets for both concerts can be purchased online from www.nngpromotions.com or from Agenda Bookshops, Exotique and Vodafone outlets. Ticket prices start from €35.