CONCERT SEASON 2015 - 2016 PHILHARMONIC

THE ORCHESTRA BOARD AND MANAGEMENT

Leader : Marcelline Agius Board of Directors Sigmund Mifsud, Ruth Micallef, Toni Abela, Mark Attard Montalto, ounded in 1968, the Orchestra was formerly known Marthese Azzopardi, Rita Cutajar, Alexei Galea Cavallazzi, Jean Killick as the Manoel Theatre Orchestra. It became an F independent body in 1997 when it was officially Executive & Artistic Team named the National Orchestra of Malta, and underwent Executive Chairman: Sigmund Mifsud its final transformation in 2008 when it was further Principal Conductor & Artistic Director: Brian Schembri extended and became known as the Malta Philharmonic Resident Conductor: Michael Laus Guest Leader: Carmine Lauri Orchestra (MPO). Financial Controller: Reuben Sammut Marketing Manager: Maria Blanco Under its new leadership, the MPO today continues to pride Operations Manager: Michael Aquilina itself in developing its vision of delivering music of the highest Logistic Coordinator: Tony Mizzi calibre on the Maltese islands while also promoting our HR Officer: John Saliba musical heritage abroad. Librarian: Matthew Fenech

Viktor Vella, STILLS WELCOME FOREWORD

EXECUTIVE CHAIRMAN : ARTISTIC DIRECTOR AND PRINCIPAL CONDUCTOR : SIGMUND MIFSUD BRIAN SCHEMBRI

It is my great pleasure to welcome you to the Malta Philharmonic Minister and NnG Promotions for the much-loved open air concerts in Loyal to my firm belief in the power of the great masterpieces However, it is essential for musicians not to neglect their own Orchestra’s 2015-2016 concert season, which includes a vast July. I would also like to take this opportunity to thank all our partners of symphonic music on the spiritual development of society and individuality and to develop it to its full artistic potential. In this sense, programme of symphonic repertoire as well as an exciting range of and sponsors for their numerous support. individual, this season reflects a special care for a diversity of tastes the MPO is investing even more in the opportunities that musicians varied genres of music. This is a tangible reflection of how the new and expectations. may have to perform chamber music and solo concertos. The RSH developments and ventures happening within the MPO have widened Further details will continue to be announced at a later stage Concert series is developing into a regular showcase of MPO our visibility both nationally and internationally, initiated productive throughout the season, including information and concerts by our Hard work by all involved in not always easy conditions is indeed musicians in a more intimate solo or chamber ensemble environment. collaborations with new clients and above all brought our infectious Malta Youth Orchestra and the work of the MPO Academy. Kindly bearing fruit. The orchestra is developing into an exciting artistic It is exactly because of the importance that I give to this element in love of music to ever-increasing audiences. visit our website, subscribe to our online newsletter and join our lively ensemble. Its public image has been enhanced and the MPO is any musician’s development, that I am truly looking forward to our community on social media networks, so that you will keep in touch slowly but steadily becoming a household name as well as a key season’s closing concert which will involve no less than 11 soloists I can assure you that this season all our musicians and guest artists, and updated about the latest events. I would also like to invite you to player in Malta’s cultural scene. Thanks to our collective effort we are performing in solo concertos or concertante works. led by Principal Conductor Brian Schembri, will continue to give you support us and become part of our growing family through our MPO not only improving our artistic aptitudes, but also attracting attention an enjoyable and enriching experience. As in previous years it is Loyalty membership scheme. of professional stakeholders, artists in search of recording prospects, The journey is long and the paths are not always straight or easy. my pleasure to announce a stimulating programme series happening producers and reviewers. In doing so, we have managed to develop However, I am sure that with our passionate love for music, our strong at the Robert Samut Hall. I am particularly delighted to mention our Finally, on behalf of my well esteemed colleagues and the MPO, it is an ever-increasing public of loyal patrons as well as newcomers to belief in our social vocation and our professional commitment to educational and outreach programmes which this year will again my privilege to invite you to come and join us in our musical journey our fantastic adventure. always strive for excellence, our dear public and sponsors will always include productions for school children and families. this year. We look forward to seeing you, whether you choose to be there to share our journey and become an active partner in our just stop by at one of our pjazza performances, come to one of our Nothing can replace the feeling one gets performing in a large group exciting future. Throughout the season we will stregthen our collaborative projects unique events, or embrace the entire varied selection of concerts there of musicians, with which each and every individual is essential to the with Valletta 2018, the Arts Council Malta, the Office of the Prime is on offer. magnificent resulting sound of a symphony orchestra. SEPTEMBER 2015 ROCKESTRA INDIPENDENZA

1565 THE MUSICAL 12 September CONCERT Free Entrance MALTA FILM CLIFF ZAMMIT 6 & 7 September Malta Fairs and Convention Centre, 19 September COMMISSION MEDITERRANEAN Ta Qali - 8:00pm STEVENS IN CONCERT Mediterranean Conference Centre, Mediterranean Conference Centre, 90TH ANNIVERSARY OPERA & MUSIC Valletta - 8:00pm Valletta - 7:30pm Progamme includes music by: 4 September Queen 25 & 26 September CRUISE CONCERT Programme: Programme includes: Pjazza Teatru Rjal, 1565 The Musical Concert version Coldplay Isouard: Jeannot et Colin, Ah quelle peine extreme 28 September Valletta - 8:00pm Music: Paul Abea Mediterranean Conference Centre, Pink Floyd Camilleri: Il-Weghda, Intermezzo Text: Malcolm Galea Valletta - 8:30pm Robert Samut Hall, Christina Perry Puccini: Manon Lescaut, Sola perduta abbandonata Programme includes: Wagner: Tannhauser, Overture Floriana - 6:30pm Ozzy Programme includes: Tosti: Ideale Conductor: Paul Abela Nirvana Troy: Suite Donizetti: Una Furtiva Lagrima Soloists: Eleanor Spiteri, Roger Tirazona, Zucchero Conductor: Brian Schembri Programme: Dvorak: Song to the moon Count of Montecristo: Suite Georgina Abela, Joseph Zammit, Francesco Soloist: Miriam Cauchi Haydn: Symphony No.45 ‘Farewell’ Tchaikovsky: Kuda Kuda Nicodeme, Nadia Vella, Rachel Camilleri Fabri, Da Vinci Code: Chevaliers de Sangreal Boccherini: Musica Notturna delle strade di Madrid Conductor: Sigmund Mifsud Midnight Express: The Chase Theme Borodin: Polovetzian Dances from Prince Igor Mark Tonna and Cliff Zammit Stevens Mozart: Divertimento K251 Soloists: Pawlu Borg Bonaci, Matthew Maltese soprano Miriam Cauchi joins the Gladiator: Now We Are Free James Borg, Marc Storace, Mikaela Attard, Malta Philharmonic Orchestra in a concert A musical set in Malta during what is one of the Conductor: Natalie Murray Beale Christopher Grech conducted by the MPO’s principal conductor Conductor: Michael Laus most significant events in the Mediterranean - The Conductor: Brian Schembri Soloists: Cliff Zammit Stevens and Brian Schembri, on this special occasion marking Great Siege of Malta in 1565 – and follows the Hannah Sandison Malta’s Independence Day. The programme Soloist: Julie Zahra This programme presents a delightful selection of story of a young knight who lives through love, Rockestra is a unique event, bringing together a comprises of well-loved arias from 19th and 20th music from the classical period and will feature the loss and death. The original soundtrack, which is huge line-up of well-renowned Maltese artists, Maltese tenor Cliff Zammit Stevens returns home Century Operas, including vocal and orchestral The Malta Film Commission will be celebrating MPO Chamber Orchestra conducted by our resident at once patriotically glorious and heart-rendering performing a varied programme of rock and for his seventh summer concert, where he will works by Maltese composers Isouard its 90th Anniversary in style, with a concert by conductor Michael Laus. This orchestral concert is beautiful, will be performed by the Malta popular songs, accompanied by the Malta serenade his audience with a handpicked and Camilleri. the Malta Philharmonic Orchestra conducted being organised as part of the Renaissance Tours Philharmnoioc Orchestra, a 100-strong Philharmonic Orchestra, under the musical programme that includes pieces by Puccini, by principal conductor Brian Schembri. The Australia cruise trip around the Mediterranean. Free and a cast of star soloists, under the baton of the direction of Sigmund Mifsud and artistic direction Donizetti and Tchaikovsky. The concert will feature concert brings to the audience a well-researched entrance is generously offered for Music students composer himself. of Pawlu Borg Bonaci. This event, which is in the MPO under the baton of Natalie Murray aid of the Malta Community Chest Fund, never programme, including famous themes from epic and there are limited places available for the Beale and with the participation of guest soprano fails to give the crowd a truly unforgettable and movies and uncovering some of the lesser-known general public. Hannah Sandison. amazing experience. music, all featured in films that were shot in Malta throughout the years. OCTOBER 2015 CONCERT IN AID OF LA TRAVIATA MANOEL THEATRE’S DAR TAL-PROVIDENZA (OPERA PRODUCTION) MPO CHAMBER MUSIC SEASON OPENING 7 October 17 October SERIES CONCERT 1 LA BOHÉME Loyalty CONCERT Loyalty Mediterranean Conference Centre, Aurora Theatre, 25 October Scheme (OPERA PRODUCTION) Scheme Valletta - 7:30pm Victoria, Gozo - 7:30pm 2-3 October Robert Samut Hall, 29 & 31 October Music Director: Colin Attard Floriana - 7:30pm Manoel Theatre, Programme: Soloists: Elena Mosuc (Violetta); Stefan Pop Astra Theatre, Valletta, on 2nd October - 8:00pm, Farrugia Frantz: Canticum Vitae Victoria, Gozo - 7:30pm ‘Song of Life’ (Alfredo); Marzio Giossi (Germont) Programme: on 3rd October - 11:00am Stage Director: Novella Tabili Graun: Horn Quartet in E flat major Báchorek: Musical Maiden for , Violin, Viola & Cello Music Director: Joseph Vella Conductor: Hermann Farrugia Frantz Programme: Ries: Flute Quartet in C major, No.1 Soloists: Miriam Cauchi (Mimí), Leonardo Caimo Soloists: Francesca Aquilina, Charles Vincenti, The annual Gozo October opera season opens Glinka: Ruslan and Ludmila Overture with another Verdi favourite, La Traviata. This is Seiber: FantasyCALENDAR for Flute, Horn, violin, viola & cello (Rodolfo), Davide Cecconi (Marcello), Oana Andra Alfred Camilleri Tchaikovsky: Rococo Variations returning to the Aurora after being last produced (Musetta), Louis Andrew Cassar (Schaunard), Arban: Carnival of Venice Choir: Coro Bel Canto there in 1998. With a plot that sends us at the MPO Chamber Ensemble: Gabriele Sagona (Colline). Brahms: Symphony Nr 2 Artistic Director: Pierre Portelli heart of 1700’s Paris, La Traviata has always Flute, Horn and String Quartet Stage Director: Enrico Stinchelli been considered as the ultimate operatic fashion- Fiorella Camilleri (Flute); Marco Cola (); Conductor: Brian Schembri This concert presents a world-premiere parade of music, drama, scenery and costumes. Reggie Clews & Marcelline Agius (Violins); Teatru Astra will be presenting Puccini’s best- Soloist: Sergei Nakariakov performance of a newly commissioned work These helped the opera maintain its ratings and Nadia Debono (Viola); Peter Flanagan (Cello) loved opera, La Bohéme, at the start of the yearly on the occasion of the 50th Anniversary of Dar secure performance records to this day and age. Festival Mediterranea.This is a unique festival on World-renowned musician Sergei Nakariakov, dubbed tal-Providenza. The Oratorio Canticum Vitae is As always, the Aurora Theatre commits itself to This first MPO Chamber Music concert of the season, the island of Gozo, celebrating 7,000 years of ‘the Paganini of the ’, will be gracing the stage composed by Hermann Farrugia Frantz, with ever-increasing artistic benchmarks. highlighting the French Horn and Flute, brings together cultural heritage and unveils Gozo as a mosaic of and enthralling our audience at this year’s Manoel words by Mons Lawrence Gatt based on biblical six members of the MPO who will be performing in Mediterranean civilization. Teatru Astra’s production Theatre’s Opening Concert. The curtain raiser of Malta’s text. The production at the MCC is under the various combinations. The programme includes some of La Bohéme, with its star cast of local and National Theatre, is a joint collaboration concert artistic direction of Pierre Portelli, with Maltese rarely heard ensemble works spanning a period of over international artists, is sure to set the bench-mark very between the Malta Philharmonic Orchestra and the soloists, Coro Bel Canto and Malta Philharmonic 200 years. high at the start of this festival. Manoel Theatre, and will be under the musical direction Orchestra conducted by the composer Hermann of the MPO’s principal conductor Brian Schembri.The Farrugia Frantz. Saturday morning concert is being hosted by the Maltese National Commission for UNESCO, under the patronage of the President of Malta. Sergei Nakariakov, Trumpet NOVEMBER 2015

APS BANK CONCERT 13 November MPO CHAMBER Free Entrance ORCHESTRA SERIES GRAND OPENING St. Paul’s Cathedral, CHOGM CONCERT OF THE EUROPEAN Mdina - 7:30pm CONCERT 1 Loyalty 25 November Free CULTURAL DAYS OF THE Programme: 21 & 22 November Scheme Entrance Euchar Gravina: Stabat Mater St. John’s Cathedral, Robert Samut Hall, Valletta - 7:30pm ECB - MALTA 2015 Floriana - 7:30pm Conductor: Christopher Muscat 3 November Soloist: Miriam Cauchi Programme: Programme: Peter Sculthorpe: Earth Cry Alte Oper, Frankfurt, Bach/Webern: Fuga (Ricercata) a 6 voci The annual concert organised by APS bank Larysa Kuzmenko: Behold the night - 8:00pm Bach: Concerto for Two Violins Charles Camilleri: New Idea Symphony is going to be part of this year’s Biennale Stravinsky: Danses Concertantes festival in Mdina. The Malta Philharmonic Handel: Harp Concerto in B flat Major Programme includes: a vast selection of tenor Orchestra, conducted by Christopher Conductor: Brian Schembri arias from well-known Operas and works by Muscat, will join forces with soprano Choir: Mirabitur Youth Choir (Simone Attard) Maltese composers Miriam Cauchi and the Bel Canto Choir in Conductor: Brian Schembri Roberta Attard & Fiona Giambra, the world-premiere and recording Euchar Soloists: The CHOGM Commonwealth Heads of Conductor: Brian Schembri Gravina’s Stabat Mater, which had received (violins); Britt Arend, (harp) Government Meeting being held in Malta this Soloist: Joseph Calleja the Special Jury Prize in the APS Bank month is an opportunity to celebrate some of Composition Competition held in 2012. The first MPO Chamber Orchestra Concert our country’s best artistic and cultural heritage. The Central Bank of Malta, under the auspices of the season, aimed at giving audiences the The concert, in one of Malta’s most beautiful of the European Central Bank, is presenting a opportunity to hear MPO musicians performing Churches consists of works by composers from rich variety of activities representing Malta’s rich in a more intimate setting. This concert presents Commonwealth countries. The programme cultural heritage, as part of the European Cultural three soloists from the MPO performing in two starts with the primordial sounds of Earth, travels Days 2015 programme in Frankfurt. This grand Baroque Concertos, flanked on either side by through the fantastic tale of a starry night and opening concert marks the launch of the events and two works offering a 20th century salute to Bach. accompany the birth of an idea towards the is headlined by the world-renowned Maltese tenor, triumph of creativity. Joseph Calleja, who will be accompanied by the Joseph Calleja, Tenor Malta Philharmonic Orchestra under the musical Decca/© Simon Fowler direction of none other than the MPO’s Principal Conductor Brian Schembri. DECEMBER 2015 FOUNDATION NOTES OF FAITH MPO ORCHESTRAL UNIVERSITY CONCERT CHRISTMAS CONCERT 4 December Free CONCERT SERIES 1 16 December Free 19 & 21 December Free Entrance Entrance Entrance St. Paul’s Cathedral, 11 December Mediterranean Conference Centre, Venue 19 Dec: St George Basilica, Mdina - 7:30pm Loyalty ORGAN RECITAL Manoel Theatre, Scheme Valletta - 7:30pm Rabat, Gozo - 8:00pm Valletta - 8:00pm Venue 21 Dec: St Julian’s Parish Church, Programme: Programme includes: St. Julians - 8:00pm Albert Pace: In Amore Illo Ardeas SERIES 1 John Galea: Innu tal-Universita Cristina Vilallonga: Aspiratio Programme: Rossini: William Tell Overture Karl Fiorini: Rêves Obscurs 6 December Sibelius: Karelia Suite Programme includes: Loyalty Vaughan Williams: Fantasia on Greensleeves Nielsen: Flute Concerto Galea: Missa Fons Vitae Doron Kima: Seeds of Hope Robert Samut Hall, Scheme Tchaikovsky: Suite from Swan Lake Sibelius: Symphony Nr 2 Galea: Ave Maria (premiere) Floriana - 7:30pm Saint-Saens: Bacchanale Handel: Hallelujah Chorus from The Messiah Conductor: Raoul Lay A Celebration of Carols Conductor: Christoph Gedschold Soloists: Bashir Abdel Al (Oud); Nizar Al Issa (Nay) Programme includes: Conductor: Michael Laus Soloist: Laura Falzon Bach: Preludium et Fuga in G BWV 550 Conductor: John Galea Part of the Biennale Festival, and an initiative of Mendelssohn: Sonata in F minor, Op.65 Nr1 The University of Malta’s Foundation Day Concert Choir: Chorus Urbanus the peacebuilding arts NGO CARAVAN, ‘Notes of Boely: Fantasie et Fuge, Op.18 Nr 6 The MPO, under the baton of Christoph is a tribute to all the students for their efforts and Faith’ is a concert of works by four contemporary Liszt: Transcendental Etude No.10 ‘Appasionata’ Gedschold, presents an enriching programme enterprise during their years of study to all those Marking the 40th anniversary of Chorus Urbanus, composers, including a world-premiere of the work celebrating Carl Nielsen and Jean Sibelius on who support them during their time at University. ‘Seed of Faith’ by Jewish composer Doron Kima. the 150th anniversary of their births (1865). The this programme is a choral offering in true Organist: Simone Vebber It is also part of an endeavour to valorise the celebratory Christmas spirit. Featuring works The concert offers the audience a stimulating and event is part of the many tributes that have been graduate’s standing as an important element challenging opportunity to contemplate fundamental held around the world this year to honor two of by Gozitan composer, John Galea, including a This first concert in the Organ Recital Series at Robert in Maltese society, through a celebration of world premiere of his Ave Maria, the concert also eternal questions of existence, faith, harmony and Samut Hall, is hosted by the Malta International Scandinavia’s greatest composers. This concert pleasant classical music. peace through the ethereal acoustic experience of will also welcome Maltese national, flautist Laura includes a delightful selection of Christmas Carols Organ Festival. Organist Simone Vebber presents to and the rousing Handel’s Hallelujah chorus. outstanding musicianship. the audience a colourful recital of traditional organ Falzon, who will be performing one of Nielson’s works from the 17th, 18th and 19th century, as well celebrated concertos. as his own transcription of Liszt Transcendental Etude ‘Appassionata’, originally written for piano. Laura Falzon, Flute JANUARY 2016 MPO GRAND MPO CHAMBER MUSIC INSPIRED BY BAROQUE ORCHESTRAL CONCERT 1 - TCHAIKOVSKY NEW YEAR’S Free SERIES CONCERT 2 20 January Entrance Loyalty Loyalty 30 January Scheme CONCERT 10 January Loyalty Manoel Theatre, Scheme Scheme Valletta - 8:00pm Mediterranean Conference Centre, 3 January Robert Samut Hall, Valletta - 7:30pm Floriana - 7:30pm Mediterranean Conference Centre, Programme: Programme: Valletta - 7:30pm Respighi: Gli Uccelli Programme: Poulenc: Concert Champêtre for Harpsichord Tchaikovsky: Violin Concerto Dvorak: String Quartet Nr 12 ‘American’ Gorecki: Concerto for Harpsichord Tchaikovsky: Symphony No 6 ‘Pathetique’ Programme includes: Tchaikovsky: String Quartet Nr 3 Stravinsky: Pulcinella Suite Tchaikovsky: Eugene Onegin - Polonaise Bach/Respighi: Chorale Prelude “Nun komm Conductor: Brian Schembri Donizetti: L’Elisir d’Amore - ‘Una furtiva lagrima’ MPO Chamber Ensemble: der Heiden Heiland” Soloist: Nemanja Radulovic Camilleri: Maltese Dances Yaro String Quartet Brodzsky: Be my love Natalia Filipenko, Philip Orlov (Violins), Conductor: Philip Walsh MPO’s Principal Conductor Brian Schembri, joins forces Aureliano Balducci (Viola), Soloist: Mahan Esfahani with internationally acclaimed Franco-Serbian violinist Conductor: Joseph Debrincat Yaroslav Miklukho (Cello) Nemanja Radulovic, in a programme of two monumental Soloist: Nico Darmanin The Valletta International Baroque Festival has works by Tchaikovsky. The melodic, breathtaking and life Another of MPOs distinguished Chamber been conceived purposely as a celebration of assertive Concerto is in stark contrast to the monumental The MPO under the auspices of the President of Ensembles, the Yaro String Quartet make their Valletta’s baroque identity, with the first Festival Pathetique, a profoundly personal symphonic testament of Malta, presents a joyful festive programme to start debut at the Robert Samut Hall, with two major being held in January 2013. During the Festival the troubled and tormented life of this giant composer. off the New Year. Maltese tenor Nico Darmanin compositions strongly embedded in the String Valletta resounds with music from the period joins the MPO, conducted by Joseph Debrincat, Quartet repertoire. when it was built. The concert presents to the in a varied programme which includes all-time audience a programme of Baroque inspired favourites of orchestral and operatic works. works, with the Malta Philharmonic Orchestra conducted by Philip Walsh.

Nemanja Radulovic, Violin © Marie Staggat/DG 2014 - 2015 HIGHLIGHTS FEBRUARY 2016

MPO CHAMBER ORCHESTRA SERIES DISNEY LIVE IN MPO ORCHESTRAL CONCERT 2 CONCERT - FANTASIA Loyalty 20 February CONCERT SERIES 2 12 & 13 February Scheme 20 February 5 February Robert Samut Hall, Mediterranean Conference Centre, Loyalty Floriana - 7:30pm Valletta - 7:30pm Scheme Manoel Theatre, Loyalty Valletta - 8:00pm Programme: Scheme Stravinsky: Concerto in D for Strings Programme: Programme: Gorecki: Concerto Notturno for violin and orchestra Disney Fantasia Live in Concert including Debussy: Prélude à l’après-midi d’un Faune Schubert: Symphony Nr 5 compositions by Beethoven, Tchaikovsky, Mahler: Ruckert Lieder Debussy, Stravinsky, Ponchielli, Dukas, Elgar, Mahler: Symphony Nr 4 Conductor: Michael Laus Respighi and Saint-Saëns Soloist: Agnieszka Kuzma CALENDAR Conductor: Jean-Marc Burfin Conductor: Brian Schembri Soloist: Andriana Yordanova Three centuries, three composers, three different worlds… and yet the power of music is such that these differences Nothing alights the imagination quite like Disney Jean-Marc Burfin returns to conduct the MPO in a can in fact unite in a celebration of a variety of emotions productions, and following last year’s hugely concert of magnificent orchestral works. Following and unlimited imagination. This concert once again successful concert, we are bringing to Malta the dream of a flute-playing faun in the opening features musicians from the MPO as soloists in their own the magical Fantasia! The MPO, conducted by Debussy, Andriana Yordanova performs the right, in an intimate setting of chamber orchestral music. principal conductor Brian Schembri, will thrill the wonderful series of songs that explore Mahler’s audience in a magical adventure featuring an complex personality. The Symphony in second Andriana Yordanova, Soprano half transports the listener from the unforgettable animated production accompanied by some of sounds of and sleigh bells, to a skeleton the greatest classical repertoire ever composed. playing the dance of death on his violin and a solemn procession leading to a child’s naïve vision of heaven. MARCH 2016 MANOEL THEATRE’S MPO GRAND ORGAN RECITAL OPERA PRODUCTION ORCHESTRAL CONCERT SERIES 2 16, 17, 19, 20 March 2 - ‘PASSIONS AND Loyalty Manoel Theatre, 13 March Scheme Valletta - 8:00pm MYSTERIES’ Loyalty Robert Samut Hall, 6 March Scheme Floriana - 7:30pm Programme: Gluck: Orphée et Eurydice Mediterranean Conference Centre, Programme includes: Valletta - 7:30pm Buxtehude: Toccata in F major Music Director: Philip Walsh Guilmant: Marche funèbre et Chant séraphique Denise Mulholland Messiaen: Le Banquet Céleste Stage Director: Programme: Bossi: Ave Maria, Op.104 No. 2 Set Design: Pierre Portelli Pergolesi: Stabat Mater Gigout: Toccata in B minor Costume Design: Luke Azzopardi Nani: Responsori a Quartetto per il Soloists: Francesca Aquilina (Amour); Giovedì Santo Gillian Zammit (Eurydice); Organist: Roberta Bugeja Hadar Halevy / Lucia Cirillo (Orphee) Conductor: Michael Laus In this second organ recital of the RSH Concert Soloists: Miriam Gauci (Soprano); Claire This is a new production of Berlioz’s 1859 Massa (Alto); Christopher Busietta (Tenor); Alfred series, young organist Robert Bugeja offers our public a vast programme by essential composers version of the opera Orphée et Eurydice Camilleri (Baritone); Albert Buttigieg (Bass) Choir : originally composed by Christoph Willibald Goldberg Vocal Ensemble of organ music, with a particular reference to the theme of Easter. Gluck based on the myth of Orpheus and set to a libretto by Ranieri de’ Calzabigi. It In a choral programme intentionally conceived belongs to the genre of the azione teatrale, to be performed during the Lent season, resident meaning an opera on a mythological subject conductor Michael Laus leads the Malta with choruses and dancing. With the Malta Philharmonic Orchestra and a line-up of some of Philharmonic Orchestra conducted by Philip Malta’s most recognised names in the classical Walsh and stage direction in the hands of music scene. Nani’s rarely performed work, which Denise Mulholland, this Manoel Theatre’s was originally composed for Maundy Thursday Opera Production is set to mesmerise its Philip Walsh, Conductor service, is coupled with the monumental musical audience into magical, mysterious world. setting of Pergolesi’s Stabat Mater. APRIL 2016 MPO GRAND IL BARBIERE DI SIVIGLIA ORCHESTRAL CONCERT 3 - MPO ORCHESTRAL MPO CHAMBER MUSIC (OPERA PRODUCTION) SERIES CONCERT 3 ISO FESTIVAL CONCERT SERIES 3 2023 FebruaryApril 15 April 3 April Loyalty Loyalty Loyalty 9 April Aurora Theatre, Scheme Scheme FAMILY FANFARE Robert Samut Hall, Scheme Manoel Theatre, Victoria, Gozo - 7:30pm Mediterranean Conference Centre, Valletta - 8:00pm Florianat - 7:30pm Valletta - 7:30pm WITH THE MPO Loyalty Production House: Gaulitanus Choir Scheme Programme includes: Programme: Music Director: Colin Attard 29 & 30 April Programme: Gershwin: in F Vella: Pezzo Per Quintetto d’Ottoni Conil: Ariane et Dionysos 20 February Borodin: Symphony Nr 2 Bernstein: West Side Story: Bernstein Prokofiev: Symphony No. 7 For theCALENDAR third year running the Gaulitanus Choir Mediterranean Conference Centre, Valletta Zahra: Loghba Karl Fiorini: Of Gods and Dogs will be putting on a full-scale operatic production 10:00am (schools) and 5:00pm (families) Horovitz: Variations on a Paganini Theme Beethoven: Choral Fantasy Op. 80 Conductor/Soloist: Wayne Marshall as the highlight event of Gaulitana: A Festival of Arnold: Brass Quintet Music, its annual festival now with the EFFE label After last year’s successful Family Fanfare and in its 10th edition. After Puccini’s Tosca and Conductor: Brian Schembri A surprising and exciting choice of two great Concert, UK’s CBeebies production will works, which demonstrate both composers Verdi’s Rigoletto, it’s the turn of Rossini’s comic MPO Chamber Ensemble: MPO Brass Quintet Soloists: Lucia Micallef, piano; once again be joining forces with the Malta endeavouring to transcend their respective opera and masterpiece Il Barbiere di Siviglia. Kevin Abela; Stephen Murphy (Trumpet); Marco Claire Debono, soprano Philharmonic Orchestra. Come join us for a Cola (French Horn); Dennis Camilleri (); popular music culture to symphonic heights. The opera, a local favourite, is returning to the fun and exciting journey through the world of Choir: New Choral Singers (Simone Attard) Paul Borg () While Borodin shows his admiration of the great Maltese stage after an absence of several years. orchestral music. Listen to some of the world’s heroic past of Russia, capturing its essence and most famous Classics and learn about dynamics, To celebrate the 10th anniversary of the ISO, festival CALENDAR The MPO Brass Quintet is a nationally acclaimed that of Russian folk music in his work, Gershwin tempo and so much more in this interactive, artistic director Karl Fiorini has programmed a cultivates his American vernacular - jazz. fun filled event. This is an opportunity not to be ensemble who have been delighting audiences kaleidoscopic programme of different soundscapes. with music of great variety exhibiting their technical Wayne Marshall, Conductor & Pianist missed. Let your children feel the music and be An ephemeral opening leads us through Prokofiev’s transported in a realm of magical music-making. expertise and musical flexibility. This programme, effortless and enchanting songfulness in his last presented as part of the RSH Chamber Music Symphony. In sharp contrast, the torrid texts of the concert series is typical in its diversity, freshness and Andalusian poet Ana Bocanegra Brasco of Fiorini’s appealing repertoire. work will be challenged by Beethoven concluding chorus exulting in an ode to music and “the sounds of harmony in our life”. MAY 2016

MPO CHAMBER ORCHESTRA MPO ORCHESTRAL MPO ORCHESTRAL SERIES CONCERT 3 CONCERT SERIES 5 CONCERT SERIES 4 13 & 14 May Loyalty 27 May Scheme 20 February Loyalty 6 May Loyalty Robert Samut Hall, Manoel Theatre, Scheme Scheme Floriana - 7:30pm Valletta - 8:00pm Manoel Theatre, Valletta - 8:00pm Programme: Programme: Tansman: Suite Concertante for and chamber orchestra Vella Gregory: Rhytmii Vitae Programme: Tansman: Concerto Poulenc: Concerto for two pianos Mozart: Don Giovanni Overture Tansman: Double Concerto for oboe, clarinet and strings Britten: Scottish Ballade Mozart: Piano Concerto D minor K 466 Dvorak: Symphony Nr 6 Schumann: Symphony Nr 3 in E-flat “Rhenish” Conductor: Brian Schembri Soloists: Fabrizio Meloni (clarinet); Conductor: Kaspar Zehnder Conductor/Soloist: Michael Laus Diego Dini Ciacci (oboe) Soloists: Natacha Chircop & Marco Rivoltini

Two works by Mozart, composed only two “It is obvious that I owe much to France, but anyone who has An eclectic programme of interesting and years apart, both written in the dark, chilling key ever heard my compositions cannot have doubt that I have challenging works, performed by the Malta of D-minor and depicting the composer at his been, am and forever will be a Polish composer”. Alexandre Philharmonic Orchestra under the baton of most dramatic. Two blasting chords announce Tansman (1897-1986). Internationally renowned composer Swiss conductor Kaspar Zehnder. Poulenc’s the beginning of the masterful Don Giovanni and virtuoso pianist, Tansman is best known for his French Concerto for two pianos, performed in this Overture, which provides the perfect canvas neoclassical style of music. This concert, featuring two world- concert by Marco Rivoltini and Natacha for the great Piano Concerto. The second half renowned soloists, is part of the process of our new recording Chircop, marked the beginning of the transports the audience through five movements project, proposed to CPO label. composer’s ‘great period’. Equally great is of music, in Schumann’s last and arguably most Dvorak’s monumental Symphony in D major, beautiful Symphony. capturing both the Czech national style and standard Germanic classical-romantic form. Kaspar Zehnder, Conductor JUNE 2016 MPO SOLOISTS ORGAN RECITAL GALA CONCERT VICTORIA INTERNATIONAL ARTS SERIES 3 18 June Loyalty ST. JOHN’S DAY Scheme 5 June Mediterranean Conference Centre, FESTIVAL Loyalty CONCERT Valletta - 7:30pm VIAF Inaugural Concert Robert Samut Hall, Scheme Floriana - 7:30pm 23 June Programme: 8 June Rossini: La Gazza Ladra Overture St George’s Basilica, Victoria - 8:00 pm St. John’s Cathedral, Programme includes: Gregson: Trombone Concerto Programme includes: Valletta - 7:30pm Menotti: Triplo Concert à Tre Works by César Franck, Léon Boëllmann, Works by Mozart and Beethoven Rota: Divertimento Concertante for Double Bass Louis Vierne and Charles-Marie Widor. Conductor: Joseph Vella Programme: Ravel: Bolero Sacred music for choir and orchestra Organist: Hugo Agius Muscat Conductor: Brian Schembri CALENDAR VIAF Closing Choral and Conductor: Michael Laus Soloists: Roderick Bugeja (trombone); Emilia Celebrated Maltese organist, Hugo Agius Orchestral Concert Wisniawska (violin), Nadia Debono (viola), Peter Muscat, concludes this year’s series of Choir: Goldberg Ensemble Flanagan (cello), Chiara Telleri (oboe), Giuseppe 11 July organ recitals at Robert Samut Hall, with a Recchia (clarinet), Ulrike Buhlmann (), Britt St George’s Basilica, Victoria - 8:00 pm programme featuring some of the greatest The annual St. John’s Day Concert is organised Arend (harp), Charlene Farrugia (piano), Daniel Programme includes: music from the organ repertoire. by ‘The Maltese Association of the Sovereign Military Order of Malta’ in order to raise funds Cauchi (percussion); Gjorgji Cincievski (double bass) Works by Mendelssohn, Brahms, and Vella for its Charitable Activities. This year’s concert Conductor: Joseph Vella will be the sixth annual charity concert, and will MPO’s artistic director and principal conductor Brian feature choral sacred music by the Goldberg Schembri will conduct a fantastic showcase of MPO’s Now in its 19th edition the Victoria Ensemble and the Malta Philharmonic Concert musicians. The programme features an exciting choice International Arts Festival is the longest-running conducted by Michael Laus. of concerti, including Menotti’s Concerto for 9 soloists, MPO Soloists festival of its kind on the islands. It offers a full followed by Ravel Bolero’s crescendo of famous five weeks of uninterrupted cultural activities, instrumental solos leading to a real festive ending to 18 June including orchestral, chamber and vocal the season. concerts, and big bands, lectures, exhibitions, and master classes. The Malta Philharmonic Orchestra, under the baton of the festival artistic director Joseph Vella, has become a yearly feature in this festival. Loyalty GOLD MEMBERSHIP – €100 MPO OPEN AIR CLASSICS LOYALTY SCHEME 2015 Scheme MPO Gold Membership Card

MPO Orchestral concerts in July are held outdoors. Apply online at Free access to orchestral rehearsals Further information for these concerts will be published closer to the date and will be available on our website. www.maltaorchestra.com.mt/loyalty Priority booking with notification of pre-ticket sales

40% on all selected Loyalty Scheme Concerts Free reserved ticket for Girgenti Concert (July 2016)

MALTA INTERNATIONAL STUDENT MPO CLUB – €25* MPO & MYO CLASSICS JOSEPH CALLEJA MPO Student Club Card IN CONCERT ARTS FESTIVAL UNDER THE STARS IN CONCERT PLATINUM MEMBERSHIP – €150 Free access to orchestral rehearsals MPO Platinum Membership Card The MPO also has 2 July 16 July Date to be confirmed Date to be confirmed Access to ‘behind the scenes’ and a PATRONAGE Pjazza Teatru Rjal, Valletta Venue to be confirmed Girgenti Palace, l/o Siggiewi Venue to be confirmed opportunities to meet the musicians Free access to orchestral rehearsals Priority booking with notification of pre-ticket sales SCHEME FREE Entrance Conductor : Brian Schembri FREE Entrance by Invitation 50% discount on all selected Loyalty 50% discount on all selected Loyalty Scheme Concerts MPO Patrons are (Loyalty Scheme) Scheme Concerts Free ticket for MPO Opening Concert at MT (September 2015) first and foremost Free reserved ticket for Girgenti Concert (July 2016) individuals who love *Restricted for students (under 16-yrs Access to VIP reception at MCC and MT Concerts great music and want old or with valid student card) to share the MPO’s MPO PJAZZA vision of bringing the PERFORMERS Platinum+ Membership – €200 best quality music to SILVER MEMBERSHIP – €50 MPO Platinum+ Membership Card the greatest amount of Look out for MPO Musicians MPO Silver Membership Card people performing in pjazzas in Malta Access to orchestral rehearsals and Gozo throughout the Free access to orchestral rehearsals Priority booking with notification of pre-ticket sales months of March, April, May Individuals may choose to Priority booking with notification of support the work of the MPO and June. Audiences will have 50% discount on all selected Loyalty Scheme Concerts pre-ticket sales Free ticket for MPO Opening Concert at MT (September 2015) on an annual subscription. the opportunity to listen to live Kindly express your interest by performances and speak to Free reserved tickets for Girgenti Concert (July 2016) contacting us on marketing@ our musicians in an informal 25% discount on all selected Loyalty Access to VIP reception at MCC and MT Concerts maltaorchestra.com environment. MPO performing at Pjazza Teatru Rjal Scheme Concerts Special discounts available at selected Restaurants on Concert Dates TICKETS & BOOKING THANK YOU The MPO is proud to enjoy associations with the following cultural entities, corporate sponsors and individual patrons. FOR TICKET PRICES AND INFORMATION, PLEASE CONTACT Their generous support allows us to reach further and touch more lives. THE RELEVANT VENUES AND BOOKING OFFICES.

Teatru Manoel Aurora Opera House FOR ALL OTHER INFORMATION, Website : www.teatrumanoel.com.mt Website : www.teatruaurora.com PLEASE CONTACT Telephone : (+356) 2124 6389 Telephone : (+356) 7904 5779 E-mail : [email protected] Email : [email protected] Address : Box Office, 11 Old Theatre Address : Teatru tal-Opra Aurora / Aurora The Malta Philharmonic Orchestra Street, Valletta Opera House 100 Republic Website : www.maltaorchestra.com Ticket Prices: €10 - €30 Street, Victoria, Gozo Telephone : (+356) 2124 4473 Email : [email protected] St. James Cavalier Teatru Astra Address : National Orchestra Ltd., 1, Triq John Lopez, (for Concerts at Robert Samut Hall) Website : www.mediterranea.com.mt Floriana, Malta Website : www.sjcav.org Telephone : (+356) 21550985 / Telephone : (+356) 2122 3200 (+356) 79256897 Email : [email protected] Email : [email protected] Join us on Address : St. James Cavalier, Castille Address : Teatru Astra, 9 Republic Street, Square, Valletta Victoria, Gozo / Maltaphilharmonicorchestra Ticket Prices: €8 - €15 For Discounts and Special Offers, check out our Mediterranean Conference Centre MPO Loyalty Scheme / MPO@MaltaPhil Website : www.mcc.com.mt Telephone : (+356) 2559 5750/1 Prices are indicative of typical ticket price range. Artists, programmes and dates are correct at the time of Email : [email protected] Check with booking offices for specific prices for going to print. MPO reserves the right to change them if Address : Mediterranean Conference each event. necessary. Visit our website fot the latest updates. Mr & Mrs Remco Slik (Benefactors) • Mr Patrick Xuereb (Patron) • Mr & Mrs Smith (Patron) Centre, Mediterranean Street, Valletta Ticket Prices: €15 - €35 Publisher: Malta Philharmonic Orchestra • Editor: Maria Blanco • Design & Layout: kuluri.com.mt • Printers: 5ive Star Printing Services