This year marks two significant milestones in Malta’s collective memory: the 50th anniversary of the National War Museum in Valletta and 80 years since the end of the Second World War in Europe. In a tribute to these historic moments, Heritage Malta, in collaboration with the National Celebrations Foundation, is presenting a powerful event under the banner of Malta Remembers.

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On Friday 30th May, the walls of Fort St Elmo and the National War Museum will come alive with ‘As One – A Concert for Peace’, a musical journey honouring Malta’s wartime resilience and calling for global unity and peace.

The evening begins at 8:30PM, with the concert starting at 9PM. Opening the event is ‘WWII Impressions’, a jazz suite composed by Dominic Galea, commemorating the 80th anniversary of the end of WWII. The piece draws inspiration from the 1992 musical ‘Il-Gwerra ta’ Spiru Cefai’, merging reimagined jazz themes and original compositions that portray key wartime episodes – from the HMS Illustrious attack and the Santa Marija convoy to the everyday lives of Maltese people taking refuge in shelters.

Lyrics from wartime songs like ‘Victory Kitchen’ and ‘Tradituri’ have been adapted from original manuscripts by Ray Mahoney, while the entire suite is visually and emotionally enriched by the artwork of Ivan Sciberras.

Headlining the second part of the concert will be Ivan Grech, joined by Maxine Pace and Cliff Zammit Stevens. This segment transitions from history to emotion, with stripped-back acoustic renditions of timeless classics known for their anti-war and unifying messages. Featuring piano, acoustic guitar, string arrangements, and choir, this portion will offer the audience a moment for shared reflection, on the cost of conflict, the need for compassion, and the enduring call for peace.

Tickets are free of charge and can be booked either online or in person at any Heritage Malta Museum or site. Entry is on a first-come, first-served basis, and take note – this is a standing event.

In a time where conflict is rife across the world, ‘As One – A Concert for Peace’ is not only a tribute to Malta’s courageous past, but a heartfelt reminder of the harmony we should strive for today.

Will you be there?