Festivals Malta is presenting the Valletta Baroque Festival from January 9 to January 25 this year with a programme celebrating a wide tapestry of early music. Under the artistic direction of Kenneth Zammit Tabona, this year's festival will feature a stellar lineup of performances from distinguished artists and ensembles in some of Malta's most opulent venues.
The festival started with Alessandro Scarlatti's Oratorio La Giuditta, performed by the Valletta Baroque Ensemble under the direction of Steven Devine. This landmark performance marked the 300th anniversary of this work. The Malta Philharmonic Orchestra also presented Bach Violin Concertos featuring esteemed soloists Charlie Siem and Carmine Lauri at TeatruManoel.
Other upcoming highlights include SIGNUM Saxophone Quartet showcasing South American music with the Bachianas, and a vocal concert titled My Voyage to Italy featuring Samuel Mariño with Concerto de' Cavalieri. A special highlight will be William Christie’s 80th Birthday Concert with Les Arts Florissants on January 24, celebrating one of the baroque music scene's most influential figures.
In addition to established masterpieces, the festival will host unique interpretations and modern works, including Missa Papae Marcelli by Palestrina in honour of its 500th anniversary performed by Malta’s National choir, KorMalta. Children can enjoy The Sound Explorers concert on January 19, introducing the next generation to the joys of baroque music.
The festival is taking place across various historic venues, including the magnificent St John’s Co-Cathedral, the intimate Lapsi Church, and the enchanting Verdala Palace. Each location provides a stunning backdrop, enhancing the listening experience and connecting audiences with Malta's rich cultural heritage.
The Valletta Baroque Festival is taking place between the 9th and 25th January 2025 and is organised by Festivals Malta in collaboration with Teatru Manoel, and supported by Visit Malta and the Ministry for National Heritage, the Arts & Local Government (Kultura).
For more information, visit www.vbf.mt.
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