The Malta Philharmonic Orchestra (MPO) is the national symphony orchestra of Malta, comprised of over 50 talented musicians that have performed all over the world. This month, this spectacular orchestra has some incredible events lined up - here’s just a taste of what’s to come!

1. The Romantic Symphony 

The orchestra’s last performance for January will be held on 26^th January at the MCC in Valletta. The MPO will be playing Anton Bruckner’s fourth symphony under the direction of Dutch-Maltese conductor Lawrence Renes. They will also be joined by British soprano Emma Bell for a performance of Richard Wagner’s musical setting of five poems by Mathilde Wesendonck.

2. Premieres – American & Maltese 

For the orchestra’s first event in February, it will be premiering two works in a night of Maltese and American music. The MPO’s very own piccolo player will take the stage to perform Joseph Vella’s Piccolo Concerto. During this event being held on 2nd February at the Manoel Theatre, the orchestra will also tackle two newly-commissioned works by Christopher Muscat and Gregory Brown.

3. Mozart’s Great Mass 

Mozart’s Great Mass will be performed on 8th February at the Metropolitan Cathedral of Saint Paul in Mdina, in aid of CaritasMalta. Entrance is free, but donations will be received at the door. Seating is on a first-come first-served basis, so don’t be tardy!

4. Disney in Concert – Beauty and the Beast 

This is one for us Disney nerds. The MPO will be performing the acclaimed musical score of Disney’s live action remake of Beauty and the Beast on 16th February at the MFCC in Ta’ Qali. Composed by Alan Menken, the music is timeless, and is a symphonic cinema event for all the family to enjoy.

5. Birds in Music 

Conductor Michael Laus will be directing the MPO on 23rd February at the Robert Samut Hall, in a concert featuring works inspired by the most musical of creatures in the animal kingdom. Joanne Camilleri will also be joining the orchestra for an organ performance of Handel’s Organ Concerto. This should be a spectacular night!