Gabriel Prokofiev, grandson of Sergei Prokofiev, does not look like the obvious candidate to continue the great classical tradition. But as a DJ, producer and composer in his early 40s, he is absolutely focused on bringing classical music to younger, more diverse audiences through his Nonclassical record label and club nights.

Those present in St George’s Square this evening will listen to a classical v hip-hop collision when Prokofiev and three-times DMC world champion DJ Switch perform Concerto for Turntables and Orchestra as part of the Malta International Arts Festival.

Written in 2004, each of the concerto’s five movements, from the grime-influenced grooves of the first, to the gavotte that forms the last, is designed to show off the virtuosity of the soloist, displaying a range of turntablist techniques such as mixing, scratching and beat-juggling.

The concert is being held at St George’s Square, Valletta, today at 9pm. Entrance is free.