The Vassallo Group of Companies marked its 65th anniversary in style recently with a concert held at the MFCC, Ta’ Qali followed by a reception at the Petit Hall within the same venue. Present for the event was President George Abela as well as a number of distinguished guests including the Deputy Prime Minister Dr Tonio Borg and Mrs Borg, Members of Parliament, business partners as well as other guests. All the group’s 1300 employees were invited to this event.

The music was provided by an 80-strong orchestra, composed of musicians from the Nicolo’ Isouard Band Club of Mosta, of which Vassallo Group chairman, Mr Nazzareno Vassallo, is president. Under the direction of Mro Emanuel Spagnol, the orchestra played a number of pieces by Von Supper, Di Capua, De Curtis, Leoncavallo, Brahms, Bixio, Arditi and, for the first time in Malta, Reed’s powerful El Camino Real. Tenor Charles Vincenti and Miriam Cauchi gave an excellent rendition of a number of Italian songs including the ever-popular O Sole Mio, Torna a Surriento, Mattinata and Il Bacio.

Addressing an appreciative audience of over 1000 guests, Mr Vassallo gave an overview of the group’s history going back to its humble beginnings in the aftermath of World War II up to the very recent developments. With over 30 subsidiary companies and business partnerships, Vassallo Group of Companies operates in myriad sectors ranging from construction to hotels, elderly and health care to Information Technology, education to catering.

President Abela spoke highly of the group’s successes throughout the years, highlighting its contribution to the Maltese economy and the employment opportunities offered to so many workers throughout the years.

The concert was ably presented by TV personality Stephanie Spiteri.

After the concert guests were treated to a reception catered for by Catermax Ltd. With the sumptuous food and flowing wine and other spirits on offer, the event lasted till the early hours of Sunday morning.

Group CEO Pio Vassallo commented; “With this event, the group wanted to leave an imprint on all those who accepted our invitation, particularly our employees who throughout the years were the backbone of the group’s success! It was a small gesture of thanks for their loyal contribution to the Vassallo Group throughout the years,” he added.

The concert and reception is one in a series of events prepared by an ad hoc committee to mark the 65th anniversary. Other events included a business breakfast, tree planting, a CSR day and a Mother’s Day activity. More events are planned for the second part of 2011.