A resounding success for the La Stella band

The Teatru Astra was once again the spot to be in last Saturday evening.  It was the evening of the La Stella philharmonic band's annual symphonic concert, or, as it is popularly known "Il-Programm ta' Novembru".

The evening, that was compered by Mrs Orietta Gatt, started with a splendid interpretation of Emile Waldteufel's very popular waltz, Estudiantina, followed by the equally stirring Fortuna Imperatrix Mundi, from the cantata Carmina Burana, composed by Carl Orff, and then, a special tribute was given to the protagonist of pop music, Michael Jackson, by the perfect performance of his renowned Thriller. This was followed by a selection from Georges Bizet's opera I Pescatori di Perle, and Peter Ilych Tchaikovsky's Marche Slave.

Just after the superb interpretation of the Marche Slave, the La Stella Philharmonic Society President, Dr Joseph Grech, together with the Secretary, Mr Michael Formosa, climbed on to the stage where they presented a momento to some people who worked, or still are, within the Socjeta Filarmonika La Stella and its Teatru Astra.

Bandsman Joseph Bajada was honoured for his long and ever-loyal service for the band, while veteran committee member George Borg was recognized for his presence in the General Committee of the Society. Mr George Farrugia was rewarded for the service he gave, and is still giving aptly particularly in the wardrobe management of the theatre and within the Astra Folk Group; Mr Carmel Zammit was honoured for his longtime service as stage manager of the Teatru Astra, and his brother, Mr Anthony Zammit was rewarded for his indispensable work in the directorate of the Society. Mr Michaelangelo Galea was also honoured in recognition of the work he did within the La Stella executive committee, particularly in the financial sector of the society. A particularly distinguished person honoured on the evening was Dr Maria Frendo, leader of the Laudate Pueri choir of St George's basilica and of the Astra Opera Chorus, and a precious collaborator of the Teatru Astra, whose long-standing and precious contribution to its cultural output and musical vitality are incomparable.  The last, and most prominent and distinguished personality honoured on the evening was former president Mr Dolindo Cassar.  Mr Cassar, who served as President of the La Stella Philharmonic Society between 1998 and 2006, had guided the Society through what turned out to be perhaps its most trying ordeal; the tragic destruction, by fire, of the main hall of the theatre, on November 8^th, 2004.  He was prominently recognized for the sterling work he had done throughout the past years, and we are sure that he will be able to continue giving his typical talented service to his beloved La Stella Philharmonic Society.

Following the presentations, the concert continued with the perfect resounding, for the second time this year, of Tchaikovsky's glorious 1812 Overture, which was the main attraction of the night, and which was received by continuous applause from the audience.

The concert came to an end with the La Stella band, striking up Giuseppe Giardini Vella's Inno La Stella, followed by Joseph Vella's Innu lil Għawdex, and Robert Sammut's Maltese National Anthem.

 It was a varied programme of music, exquisitely performed, with the star of the night being each and every bandsman and bandswoman, and obviously, the distinguished musical director of the La Stella Philharmonic Band, Prof. Joseph Vella.

Being a resounding success for our band, this concert concluded the eighth edition of Festival Mediterranea, spread along a month and more, which was another massive success for the Soċjetà Filarmonika La Stella.  Success, however, does not come by without serious professional commitment, indispensable team spirit, and selfless dedication.  These three characteristics have guaranteed high level productions in recent years, and may they continue to do so for the benefit of high culture in our little island of Gozo.