In his opening address, Mr Scicluna thanked the Minister and all those involved who were making this historic event possible. He added that the concert was definitely an appropriate way to celebrate the anniversary of Malta’s foremost independent school whilst heaping praise on both the Manoel Theatre and the National Orchestra for the high standards that they have achieved over the years.

Commenting on the concert itself, Mr Scicluna said that this was the first time ever that a school had chosen the Manoel Theatre and the National Orchestra to celebrate its anniversary. He added that St Edward’s was a college where the principle of a rounded education was paramount and that this concert was also a contribution to Maltese civil society in general.

In conclusion, Mr Scicluna urged all music lovers to attend this spectacular event that would certainly be one of the highlights of the new concert season apart from celebrating the 75th anniversary of a unique educational institution.

Mro Michael Laus said that this collaboration was indeed a unique occasion and he expressed the hope that this idea would not be the last of its kind. Mro Laus also said that although the government helps the National Orchestra, it was through these private events that its existence continued to be made possible. He also paid tribute to the principle of rounded education applied by St Edward’s College that served for a better understanding of life in general.

On the choice of works, Mro Laus said that the Beethoven Concerto was ideal for the occasion and the Bruckner symphony was an unknown work but was suited to the orchestra’s talents. Mr Wilfred Kenely re-affirmed the fact that this was a unique occasion and that other institutions should also take heed of St Edward’s example and use the theatre and the orchestra for such important occasions.

In his concluding speech, Dr Francis Zammit Dimech paid tribute to St Edward’s College as an institution which pioneered the concept of a complete education.

He added that the exposure to arts and other extra curricular activities resulted in a much more accomplished student who would definitely have much to contribute in public life. The minister also wished the organisers well, whilst hoping for a memorable evening in the company of such splendid music.