A new musical score that reflects Carnival’s traditional roots has been composed and it will be played during the dances of the traditional parade, Tourism and Culture Francis Zammit Dimech said.

Expert folklore author Ruben Zahra, with the support of the Maltese Council for Culture and Arts, composed the score.

Dr Zammit Dimech pointed out that Carnival, to be held between 24 and 28 February, is an integral part of Maltese folklore and part of the cultural calendar.

“It is a form of art – whoever is involved in creating the carnival atmosphere is an artist,” he added.

Over 37 floats, bands, dancing companies and grotesque masks will take part in this year’s Carnival parade.

For the 11th consecutive year, Charles Axisa is the man responsible for the King Carnival float.

The Tarxien Maria Assunta Musical Society and Mellieha La Vittoria Philharmonic Society will also take part.

This year there will be five sets of grotesque masks, 14 carnival floats and 15 dancing companies.

Dr Zammit Dimech said that for the first time in many years, participation was complete in all competition categories, with the exception of that for musical bands.

“This confirms that the system of classification for participation is creating interest and generating competition in every category,” he added.

For the second consecutive year, the St Julian’s and Qormi local councils are organising large scale carnival activities in their respective towns in collaboration with the National Folklore Commission.

“Carnival is a tourist attraction and contributes to give tourists a new experience,” he concluded.