The Malta International Organ Festival returns for its 11th edition, promising a season rich in artistry and reverence. Running from 22 November until 7 December, the festival invites audiences to experience Malta's historic and cultural treasures through exquisite performances. This year's line-up includes concerts in some of Malta's most iconic cathedrals, churches and basilicas, bringing the beauty and power of organ music to the heart of these sacred spaces.
The festival opens on 22 November with an extraordinary concert at the Anglican Cathedral in Valletta, headlined by the celebrated American organist Cameron Carpenter. Widely regarded as the world's most visible organist, Carpenter is a virtuoso composer and performer who is breaking the mould of traditional organ music. He is the first organist to ever be nominated for a Grammy Award for a solo album. His latest album, recorded at the Berlin Konzerthaus, features his rendition of Bach's Goldberg Variations alongside Hanson's Symphony #2. This album, released by Universal / Decca in 2021, adds to his impressive discography, which includes the chart-topping All You Need is Bach. Known for his electrifying technique, Carpenter will perform Goldberg Variations as part of his programme for his first appearance in Malta, along with other works by Bach, promising to set a grand tone for the festival.
On 4 December, audiences can anticipate another captivating event with the Trumpet Fanfare and Organ Grandeur concert at the Basilica of St Dominic and Our Lady of Porto Salvo in Valletta. Showcasing what can now be considered the biggest organ in Valletta, this concert will bring together the majestic sounds of the newly-installed organ with the boldness of trumpet fanfares. The programme promises to be an exhilarating experience, filling the basilica with resonant harmonies and powerful brass.
The festival will culminate on 7 December with a Grand Finale at Christ the King Basilica in Paola, where German maestro Johannes Skudlik will lead a masterful performance on the organ while conducting the orchestra. The programme features Bossi's Organ Symphony Op. 100, a powerful and complex work that showcases the organ's grandeur, alongside organ masterpieces by Widor, Dubois and others. This closing concert offers a fitting end to the festival, capturing the spirit and virtuosity that define this annual celebration.
Supported by VisitMalta, APS Bank, the German Embassy and Festivals Malta, and in collaboration with all the participating churches as well as the Żebbuġ and Paola Local Councils, the festival continues to grow in reach and resonance. This year's edition is a testament to Malta's dedication to preserving and celebrating its cultural heritage through music.
For more details on the programme and to purchase tickets visit maltainternationalorganfestival.com