What a trio! Joseph Calleja, Claudio Baglioni and Sarah Brightman to unite for Christmas concert in Malta

Malta’s festive calendar will welcome an exceptional musical event this December, as Maltese tenor Joseph Calleja joins forces with Italian singer-songwriter Claudio Baglioni and internationally acclaimed soprano Sarah Brightman for his annual Christmas concert.

Taking place on Friday, 18th December 2026, at the Malta Fairs and Conventions Centre (MFCC) in Ta’ Qali, the concert will bring together three internationally celebrated artists alongside the Malta Philharmonic Orchestra for an evening combining operatic brilliance, Italian classics and festive favourites.

The performance marks a welcome return to Malta for Claudio Baglioni, one of Italy’s most iconic musical figures, whose career spans six decades and includes more than 60 million records sold worldwide. In 2007, his Ciao O’Scià concert at the Valletta Waterfront attracted more than 100,000 people, creating a memorable occasion celebrating music and cultural dialogue.

Sarah Brightman, meanwhile, is recognised as the world’s best-selling soprano and a pioneer of classical crossover music. She originated the role of Christine Daaé in The Phantom of the Opera in London’s West End and on Broadway, and recently returned to the stage as Norma Desmond in the international touring production of Sunset Boulevard.

The three artists will perform with the Malta Philharmonic Orchestra under the musical direction of Mro Paul Bateman, alongside Mro Adriano Pennino and Mro Kevin Abela. The BOV Joseph Calleja Children’s Choir, directed by soprano Gillian Zammit, will also contribute to the evening.

“The festive season carries a special kind of joy, and I am delighted to share the stage with such exceptional artists for this celebration,” Joseph Calleja said, expressing his hope of creating an evening filled with warmth, emotion and music.

Organised by greatt, with the support of VisitMalta, Festivals Malta and Bank of Valletta, the annual concert has become a highlight of the island’s cultural calendar.

Tickets are already on sale at eventworks.mt. Early booking is recommended for what promises to be one of the season’s major musical events.

Will you be attending this Christmas concert?