The 3rd edition of the Malta Cross Music Competition (MCMC 2026), under the artistic direction of Frank Bonnici, was successfully held in Malta between 20 and 22 April 2026. The prestigious international music event took place at the Malta Society of Arts and the historic Manoel Theatre in Valletta.
The competition brought together talented musicians from across Europe, including participants from the Czech Republic, Ukraine, Malta, Italy, and Serbia. Contestants competed across a diverse range of musical genres, including film music, traditional music, pop and jazz, as well as classical music.
Over the course of three days, MCMC 2026 offered a rich programme that extended beyond the competition itself. Activities included masterclasses, live performances, lectures, and educational talks, alongside a presentation by Brincat Pianos, representatives of Hoffmann and Zimmermann. The judging panel comprised one judge from the Prague Conservatoire and two representatives from the Malta School of Music.
The preliminary rounds were hosted at the Malta Society of Arts, while the final round took place at the Manoel Theatre. The competition concluded with the following winners:
- 1st Prize: Eliska Klimova (Violin), accompanied by pianist Jakub Rihacek - Czech Republic
- 2nd Prize: Aryana Portuhalska (Piano) - Ukraine
- 3rd Prize: Marie Barinova (Violin) and Anna Marie Kadeckova (Violoncello) - Czech Republic
The Malta Cross Music Competition, in collaboration with C. Bechstein and the Manoel Theatre, welcomed instrumentalists aged between 16 and 40, ranging from intermediate to diploma-level performers.
The event also received national media coverage through TVAM and ONE TV, highlighting both the competition and its participants.
The Malta Tourism Authority played a pivotal role in bringing the 3rd Malta Cross Music Competition to Malta. Visit Malta also organised a sightseeing tour for the competitors, showcasing the Maltese Islands.
Participants and judges were hosted at leading hotels within the Corinthia Group, including the Radisson Hotel in St Julian's, while travel arrangements were supported by KM Malta Airlines.
Winners were presented with certificates and awards at the Manoel Theatre. Prizes included trophies crafted by the Malta Glass Company, concert opportunities in Prague and Vienna organised in collaboration with C. Bechstein Centrum and MCMC, performances at the Malta Society of Arts, masterclasses, educational materials, and other music-related gifts.
The organisers extend their sincere appreciation to all partners and sponsors, including Dr Owen Bonnici, Minister for the National Heritage; the Manoel Theatre; the Malta Society of Arts; the Malta Tourism Authority; C. Bechstein Centrum; Corinthia Group of Hotels; Toto Bags; Brincat Pianos; Hilton Prague; Domaine La Gazelle; KM Malta Airlines; C. Bechstein Austria Vienna; TVAM; and ONE Studios.
The Malta Cross Music Competition 2026 marks yet another successful edition, reinforcing Malta's position as a vibrant cultural destination for international artistic exchange.