The De Valette Chamber Orchestra (DVCO) is one of Malta's newest and most exciting classical ensembles, founded to bring together top international musicians while showcasing Maltese cultural heritage on a world‑class stage. It launched its first programmes in 2025-2026 and is already performing at Teatru Manoel and other major venues, earning strong public and critical enthusiasm.
It is a newly formed chamber orchestra named after Grand Master Jean Parisot de Valette.
It is built around 18 musicians from leading European orchestras, including the London Symphony, Munich Philharmonic, and Royal Philharmonic.
It is led by Mro. Carmine Lauri, Concertmaster Emeritus of the London Symphony Orchestra, who serves as Music Director and Concertmaster.
Artistic Vision
• To position Malta as a cultural ambassador through high‑calibre chamber music.
• To curate programmes that blend Maltese heritage with European classical traditions.
• To nurture young Maltese musicians through masterclasses and mentorship with world‑renowned artists.
Season Opening at Teatru Manoel
Their debut concert opened the theatre's season with works by Tchaikovsky and Dvořák, highlighting the ensemble's expressive range. Tchaikovsky's Serenade for Strings in C Major, Op. 48 remains one of the most cherished works in the string repertoire, written from the heart as a tribute to his love of Mozart. Dvořák's Serenade for Strings in E Major was composed in just two weeks.
The inaugural DV'Classical festival will be launched on 4 February 2026 at the Manoel Theatre, celebrating cultural dialogue between Malta and Poland.
A November 2025 programme featured cellist Maximilian Hornung performing Schumann's Cello Concerto, conducted by Karsten Januschke.
Also included were Suk's Serenade for Strings and Tchaikovsky's Souvenir de Florence.
Italian Chamber Music
A January 2026 concert was dedicated to Italian Baroque and Classical repertoire (Pergolesi, Galuppi, Caldara).
Why It Matters for Malta
It marks a new chapter in Malta's classical music landscape, raising the artistic bar with international‑level performances.
It strengthens Malta's cultural diplomacy by collaborating with European artists and festivals.
It invests in the next generation of Maltese musicians through education and exposure.
A November 2025 programme featured cellist Maximilian Hornung performing Schumann's Cello Concerto, conducted by Karsten Januschke.
Also included were Suk's Serenade for Strings and Tchaikovsky's Souvenir de Florence.
The De Valette Chamber Orchestra stands at the threshold of a vibrant artistic journey, weaving Malta's cultural identity into the wider European musical tapestry. With its exceptional musicians, visionary leadership, and commitment to nurturing future talent, DVCO is poised to become one of the island's most significant cultural ambassadors - an ensemble that carries Malta's voice with elegance, ambition, and enduring resonance.
Photography: Elisa Von Brockdorff