Sixteen-year-old Daniela Delicata had never submitted songs for any festival let alone what is considered the most important of them all: the Malta Song for Europe. She was therefore elated when a song she had penned, “Little Islands in Your Heart”, reached the semi finals.

Like many singers, Daniela’s singing career started at school. As a student at St Joseph School Blata l-Bajda she was given many opportunities to show her talents. One such activity was a concert held on the occasion of CHOGM at which HM Queen Elizabeth II was present and in which Daniela had a leading parting. Her talent was noted during one of the school soirees and she was invited to join the Academy.

Music pays an important role in Daniela’s life. She started learning music and playing classical guitar at the age of six. She has now reached an advanced stage in her music education and has the intention of achieving more.

Daniela admits that modern pop music is very much to her liking. She is particularly fond of Mariah Carry and Beyonce Knowles.

She is currently undergoing a year-long course for singers at the Malta Academy of Performing Arts in conjunction with the JC Academy (UK). Following her participation in the Malta Song for Europe Festival, Daniela will concentrate on her course, write and record new material and hopefully release her first single sometime this year.

In the meantime, Daniela is securing personal sponsors who will help her project the right image at the festival. Sponsors include Zero Frizz hair products and MEI who will be providing the beautiful dress she will wear on the festival night. As part of the Malta Academy of Performing Arts, Daniela is also supported by Hamilton Travel, Yuu Restaurant, John’s Garage, Mr Clean, XFM, George Farrugia and Sons, Island Hotels and Exotique.