Eight months after his controversial dismissal from the Malta Philharmonic Orchestra, Brian Schembri is home to conduct the European Union Chamber Orchestra. The concert is on Friday evening at the Manoel Theatre as part of the International Spring Orchestra Festival.
“I had been approached by festival organiser Karl Fiorini prior to my dismissal from the Malta Philharmonic Orchestra. The fact that the latter will not be participating in this festival is purely coincidental,” Brian Schembri says.
Commenting on the selection of music for Friday's concert, he points out this will not be of classic-pop nature.
“This will be a very challenging repertoire which has never been played before in Malta and I doubt if it will ever be again. Classical music is not only about entertainment for the masses and this concert will focus on the more profound meanings.”
Looking at the wider picture in terms of the local music scene, he says there is nothing wrong in being an amateur, especially in a small country like Malta, where making compromises is the rule not the exception.
“In reality, there are very few who can risk burning bridges with others to have it their own way because any clash in the early days of their career might come back to haunt them. I believe professionals should not be afraid to stand by what they believe in,” Mro Schembri said.
“The important thing is not to fall in the trap of thinking you have reached the top simply because you have reached a higher level.”
Mro Schembri comments on the increasing list of festivals being held in Malta throughout the year. While these may contribute to a very active cultural scene, he says such activities are just the tip of the iceberg in terms of artistic development.
Festivals originated as a stop-gap during holidays when the theatre, concert or opera season is closed, he notes.
“Artistically, holding only festivals is not the happiest of situations. Festivals alone can help the cultural sector to thrive but in terms of artistic development the benefits are limited.
“As their name suggests, symphonic orchestras are there to play symphonic music by default and not other genres like pop, rock etc.” Only symphonic music of high calibre can really develop an orchestra and its musicians artistically.
When giving advice to anybody interested in a music career, Mro Schembri distinguishes between success and talent.
“The great artist Vincent van Gogh did not manage to sell a single painting when he was alive. Yet, his talent is undisputed. On the other hand, there were others whose works are found in many households but that does necessarily reflect their artistic level. Success is nowadays measured by media exposure only,” he remarks.
Since his dismissal from the orchestra, admirers and critics alike agree that Malta cannot afford to lose the services of such a celebrated conductor. Eight months down the line, the possibility of a comeback at the orchestra seems remote as the dispute is now before the courts with Mro Schembri claiming compensation.
Still, he prefers to leave the door open when asked whether he would ever consider taking the baton once again at the Malta Philharmonic Orchestra.
“Given the right conditions, and I am not only referring to remuneration, I would consider coming back,” he said.
He lets it be known that, some months ago, there were efforts to find a solution but, for some reason, the talks stalled.
“I made three proposals in order of preference. The Prime Minister and two Cabinet members were involved in the talks.
“Agreement had been reached on the third option but there have been no further developments since,” Mro Schembri said.