Aurora International Folk Festival Returns Showcasing Maltese and European Traditions
Gozo's rich cultural heritage will once again take center stage from October 18th to 20th, 2024, with the return of the Aurora International Folk Festival. Now in its fifth edition, the festival celebrates the folkloristic traditions of the Maltese islands and five other European countries. Held in the picturesque setting of Pjazza Katidral, the event coincides with the Feast of St. Ursula, the Patron Saint of Gozo, and promises to immerse attendees in the vibrant customs of the past.
The Aurora International Folk Festival highlights traditional aspects of dance, music, and celebrations that were once commonplace across Europe. From intricate Maltese folk dances to lively musical performances, the event showcases an array of cultural expressions that have been passed down through generations. In addition to Malta, the festival will feature performances from various European countries, offering a unique cultural exchange and fostering a sense of unity among participants.
Organised by the Aurora Folk Group, a branch of Soċjetà Filarmonika Leone AD 1863, the festival aims to preserve and promote these traditional art forms while providing an entertaining experience for locals and visitors alike. Pjazza Katidral, located in the heart of Gozo, provides a fitting backdrop for this celebration of heritage, as the square is steeped in the island's own history and traditions.
With its strong emphasis on the authenticity of folkloristic expressions, the Aurora International Folk Festival continues to grow in prominence, drawing enthusiasts of cultural heritage from all corners of Europe. For more information, interested parties are encouraged to contact the organisers via email at info@leone.org.mt.
Marking a significant cultural highlight on the island's calendar, the festival promises to be a colourful and spirited event, perfect for all those looking to explore the traditions of the Maltese islands and beyond.
ConTempo Concert n.4: "Last Night When We Were Young" to Showcase Iconic American Songbook at Malta Society of Arts
On October 17, 2024, the Malta Society of Arts will host the fourth instalment of its ConTempo Concert Series with a special performance titled Last Night When We Were Young. This concert, part of the organisation's Performing Arts Programme for 2024, will feature a captivating dialogue between piano and guitar, celebrating timeless classics from the Great American Songbook.
Maltese guitarist Sandro Zerafa and French pianist Vincent Bourgeyx will lead the evening’s tribute, performing well-loved standards such as You Do Something to Me, Young at Heart, Pure Imagination, Love Is a Many-Splendored Thing, and Secret Love. Their piano-guitar duet will evoke the magic of an era when these songs formed the soundtrack of American life.
The concert promises a nostalgic journey through iconic compositions by legendary songwriters like Cole Porter, Richard Rodgers, and George Gershwin. The performance will also include lesser-known gems, offering the audience a rich and varied experience. Songs like If I Had You, Never Will I Marry, The Folks Who Live on the Hill, and It’s De-Lovely will be brought to life with the unique interpretations of Zerafa and Bourgeyx, blending their jazz expertise with an intimate and refined sound.
Hosted by the Malta Society of Arts, the ConTempo Concert Series continues its mission of bringing high-quality performances to the island’s cultural landscape. This latest concert is set to attract lovers of jazz, classical music, and the golden era of American songwriting. The venue itself, housed in the prestigious Malta Society of Arts building, adds an elegant and historical backdrop to this exceptional musical evening.
For those who appreciate the brilliance of the Great American Songbook and the artistry of live musical dialogue, Last Night When We Were Young is not to be missed.
New Music Releases from Airport Impressions, Mark Anthony Bartolo & Charlie Busuttil
Airport Impressions recently announced the release of their sultry new single "Bobcat," which became available on September 20th across all major digital platforms. The alt-rock band from Malta, known for their melodic and emotionally driven sound, has been active since 2008.
Frontman Errol Sammut explained the inspiration behind "Bobcat," stating, "The song stems from certain feelings within our society toward the excessive speed with which some tackle their days, resulting in a lack of emotion among us nowadays."
Fans can follow Airport Impressions on their social media platforms:
Twitter: @Air_Impressions
Facebook: Airport Impressions Official
Instagram: @AIBandMalta
Singer-songwriter and music teacher Mark Anthony Bartolo recently released his latest single, "Blinded By The Sun," on September 6, 2024. The track, a fresh take on alternative pop-rock, features heartfelt lyrics paired with melodic guitar work, reflecting Bartolo’s signature style.
"Blinded By The Sun" delves into the theme of finding balance and clarity amid life’s challenges. Through simple yet profound observations, the song explores how to navigate negative flashbacks or criticism, whether from others or personal experiences, by staying present and aware of one's surroundings. Bartolo highlights everyday contrasts, such as the difference between kindness and cruelty, as guiding truths that can help individuals stay grounded and overcome frustrations.
The track encourages listeners to acknowledge these overlooked aspects of life as tools to regain inner strength and move past negativity.
Charlie Busuttil’s new single, "Silly Working Mule," was launched on September 21st, 2024, at the end of summer. The song originated from a poem he had written, reflecting on the irony of modern life, where the "silly working mule" toils hard for an honest living, contrasting with those higher up the ladder. Busuttil collaborated with producer Fabrizio Fedele to develop the lyrics and music, and together they recorded the track. The single features backing vocals from Miss Sara and Fedele and was released under the Cellar Studios label.
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