There was something a little bit different happening in Mdina last week. A local band Trania performed tracks from an album which they launched at the fabulously-restored Palazzo Ferreira.

The band consists of three musicians: one on percussion, one on keyboards and a third on winds flutes and saxes. The band describes itself as three musicians of different musical backgrounds, coming together to create contemporary Maltese and Mediterranean rhythms and sounds, through blending creativity with tradition. With their vast musical experience and exposure, ranging from Rock to Reggae to World Music and Jazz, they believe that contemporary Maltese ethnic/folk music should not be confined to the island, as it seeks inspiration beyond its borders. North African, Middle Eastern and Sicilian sounds have a heavy presence in their music, and the combination of these gives Trania a very distinct musical identity.

The resulting sounds are certainly different. It is quite something, to listen to a light jazz drum beat being fused with traditional music on Maltese flejguta flutes. The music varies, and one can recognise the individual musician’s influence on every song. While the music can even roll into jazz and blues, the traditional and typical Maltese element of the music can be heard very clearly.

All too often, in Malta, we tend to reject that which is typically Maltese. We do it with products and we also do it with talent. We must learn to accept that, particularly in the performing arts, there is no absolute. What one might perceive to be pleasing, another might think ‘boring’. In other words, it is all a matter of opinion. What we really need to learn in this country, is how to respect the opinion of others and recognise that while a certain type of music may not be our cup of tea, it still takes a lot of time, effort, dedication and talent to create.

Speaking on a personal note, the author of the article can only congratulate Trania for their bold foray into world – yet local – music.

It is good to see that the local music scene is vibrant , despite the difficulty that bands face in finding exposure and air time, and the length of time it takes to put together such creations for others’ enjoyment. Local bands make little in terms of financial reward, instead they do it because they have a passion for music, the least that one can do is to get out there and support them by attending gigs and buying local music.