Baron Gozo Blog

Live music on Gozo to get you into the swing of summer

Posted on 06 May 2017

As spring progresses into summer here on lovely Gozo it’s not just the weather that’s warming up!

Alongside its spectacular scenery and tranquil rural lifestyle, Gozo offers an eclectic range of live arts and music all year round, from the unique Nadur Carnival in February to the island’s internationally-acclaimed autumn Opera Season. But early summer is when cultural activities really start to heat up.
This blog post aims to provide a taste of what Gozo has to offer the culture vultures amongst our guests who may be fortunate enough to be visiting our beautiful island between May and the end of July.

19 – 20 May : Musical to celebrate the history of Xewkija
At 8.30pm on these two evenings, a special musical will be performed live in the beautiful Rotunda of St John the Baptist, also known as the Xewkija Rotunda.

Called Rajtek Tinbidel, which translates to “I saw you changing” in English, this musical tells the story of the history of the village of Xewkija over the past 50 years – from the construction of the current church to the recent inauguration of its new organ.

The musical comprises specially composed music for a 21-piece orchestra, and 19 songs which range in mood from humour and joy to tragedy. The production includes special effects and film projection plus English subtitles to help visitors to the island enjoy the story.

Widely considered to be an architectural masterpiece, Xewkija Rotunda was designed by Maltese architect Joseph Damato and built by highly skilled local craftsmen using local limestone. Construction started on this monumental structure in the early 1950s on the site of a much older church, which dated back to the 17th century.

The Rotunda is the biggest church in Gozo and features a distinctive dome, some 27 metres (89 ft) high – the third largest unsupported dome in the world. It’s beautiful interior will create a magical backdrop for the musical.

6 June – 10 July: Victoria International Arts Festival

Malta’s longest-running cultural festival, The Victoria International Arts Festival is celebrating its 20th anniversary in 2017.

This five-week festival offers a diverse range of free inspirational concerts, recitals, dance performances, talks and other events featuring many local and international musicians, ensembles, and singers. This year’s 20th anniversary celebrations includes 600 talented musicians from 20 different countries.

The festival is based in Gozo’s capital, Victoria, at two main venues: St George’s Basilica; and the concert hall found just behind it – the Aula Mgr Giuseppe Farrugia, which features an 18th century British pipe organ. Other venues include The Citadel and the roof top of the Heart of Gozo Museum. At St George’s Square, you’ll find big bands, and dance performances will be held at Republic Square.
For more information about this year’s exciting programme click here:
http://www.viaf.org.mt/programme/

10 June: RockAstra, Victoria

Rockastra Concert, Photo by Joe Attard

Now in its fifth year, this spectacular – and free – open-air concert features local La Stella Band, conducted by musical director Sigmund Mifsud performing an enjoyable range of popular music made famous by bands such as Bon Jovi, Pink Floyd, Queen, and The Blues Brothers. RockAstra often features guest performers.

For more information, telephone 00356 21550985 or click here: www.lastella.com.mt

29 July : D Capitals Live at The Citadel, Victoria

Founded in 2014, D Capital’s is a 15-piece mainly brass band, which performs a versatile musical repertoire including pop, rock, jazz, and swing. The band will be performing live at The Citadel in Victoria with Ozzy Lino and Aida Satta Flores under the direction of George Apap. Other local singers will also be participating.

For more information: gozoculture@gov.mt
31 July: Opera vs. Pop, Victoria

Opera vs Pop under the stars

Another very successful and enjoyable tradition on Gozo is the Opera vs. Pop concert featuring the Gozo Youth Orchestra. 2017 marks the event’s 10th anniversary. This open-air concert will be held in the Ministry for Gozo Courtyard, St Francis Square, Victoria and features international opera singers performing with the orchestra.

The programme includes everything from classical and operatic arias to lighter arrangements from well-loved musicals and film soundtracks.

Ask us for help

Baron Holiday Homes is happy to organise car hire, tours of Gozo, and special activities for our guests. Just get in touch and we’ll tell you all you need to know about walks near to your rental property, special events in villages nearby, and other local information.

Posted in Activity, Family, Fun, Things to do

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