Organist David Davies will be giving free organ master classes for organ students or pianists who would like an introduction to the organ on Saturday at the Xewkija Parish Church from 11am.

The classes are part of the educational programme in the communities of the Malta International Organ Festival, which was awarded the Effe label from the European Festivals Association this year.

The Effe label is an EU-backed label for remarkable festivals run by the European Festivals Association.

Mr Davies is a lecturer in music theory at the University of Surrey. He is one of the most exciting concert organists of his generation, and is in demand as a versatile musician and educator.

His abilities as a solo keyboard player, choir director, teacher, lecturer and orchestral conductor have taken his career all over the world, and his diverse experience of Western church music spans 25 years.

These master classes will give participants an insight on the technique and interpretation skills required from a professional organist.

All students will receive some individual attention in a group master class setting.

Mr Davies gave a solo organ recital at the Xewkija Parish Church on Thursday as part of the Malta International Organ Festival being held until December 7.

Those interested in attending the master class should send an email to info@maltainternationalorganfestival.com .