Epic Soundtracks: A concert in collaboration between the La Stella Philharmonic Society and the King’s Own Band

Back in 1877, the King’s Own Band of Valletta, then known as La Vincitrice Nazionale, took part for the very first time in the Feast of St George Martyr in Victoria, Gozo, an invitation extended by the Parish of St George itself. From that historic moment onwards, the name King’s Own became synonymous with the feast of the saint, as year after year, the La Stella Philharmonic Society continued to invite the distinguished band from Valletta to make its contribution to the festivities in Victoria.

Over the decades, a historic friendship blossomed between these two eminent bands of Malta and Gozo’s respective capital cities. This unique bond was further strengthened in 2018, when Dr John Galea was appointed Musical Director of the La Stella Band, having already served as Conductor of the King’s Own Band since 2003.

In celebration of more than 145 years of shared history, the two bands will now unite in an extraordinary concert under the direction of Mro Dr John Galea, presenting a concert aptly entitled “Epic Soundtrack.”

This unique event will showcase the power, grandeur, and emotion of cinematic music, featuring an enthralling selection of film scores that have captivated audiences across generations. The programme will include iconic works by world-renowned composers such as Hans Zimmer, John Williams, James Horner, Miklos Rozsa, and Elmer Bernstein, among others, in a musical journey through the soundscapes of Hollywood; from heroic battles and dramatic quests to the suspense and wonder of modern fantasy cinema, performed live by a combined ensemble of approximately 95 musicians.

More than a musical event, Epic Soundtrack stands as a celebration of unity and cultural heritage, reflecting the enduring friendship and mutual respect between these two great institutions. It will be an evening of unforgettable melodies, cinematic emotion, and shared history.

The concert will take place on Saturday, 22nd November at 8:00pm. Tickets may be obtained from teatruastra.org.mt.

Complementing this concert will be a commemorative exhibition entitled “Rabta Storika” (Historic Bond), commemorating over 145 years of friendship between the two societies. A fascinating collection of photographs, trophies, and archival documents will be on display.

The exhibition will be inaugurated on Saturday, 22 November at 7:00pm, and will remain open daily until Sunday, 30 November, from 9:00am to 12:00pm and 5:00pm to 8:00pm.