A well-organised festival

The eighth edition of Festival Mediterranea, organized by the La Stella Philharmonic Society, came to an end on Saturday, November 21, 2009, with the twenty-fifth evening featuring the La Stella band in its annual symphonic concert, in the Teatru Astra, Gozo.

This year's edition included concerts and recitals, performed by artistes from both the local and international scenario, public lectures and site visits addressed by leading archeologist Dr David Trump, and a spectacular dance show, Unforgettable, coordinated by the Centre Stage Dance Academy.

But without any doubt, the festival reached its climax with the splendid double-rendition of Giuseppe Verdi's Rigoletto, with the participation of a truly professional cast, directed by Mario Corradi, the Astra Opera Chorus, ably prepared by Dr Maria Frendo, and the National Philharmonic Orchestra of Malta, conducted by Prof. Joseph Vella, whose musical direction in the Teatru Astra turns forty years in 2010.  The appreciative audience that literally packed every nook and cranny of the theatre had heartfelt praise for this production, which surely was Malta's operatic highlight of the year.

Festival Mediterranea was concluded with the La Stella philharmonic band, under the baton of its resident musical director, Prof. Joseph Vella, performing its annual grand concert, with a varied programme ranging from classical to contemporary music.  The concert, which was attended by quite an impressive audience, peaked with the impeccable performance of Peter Ilych Tchaikovsky's Marche Slave and 1812 Overture.

This concert concluded the eighth edition of Festival Mediterranea, spread along a month and more of continuous cultural events; another massive success for the La Stella Philharmonic Society.  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.

James L. Borg | Victoria, Gozo

Times of Malta, November 30, 2009