The Malta Philharmonic Orchestra (MPO) has launched its 2026/27 Symphony Season, featuring an ambitious programme combining high-level symphonic repertoire with internationally renowned conductors and soloists, while continuing to place Maltese music in the spotlight.

The new season builds on the orchestra's artistic development in recent years and further strengthens its commitment to artistic excellence, internationalisation and audience growth.

One of the highlights will be Beethoven200, a series dedicated to Ludwig van Beethoven. Under the direction of Wolfram Christ, the MPO will perform a selection of the composer's works, collaborating with international soloists including Freddy Kempf, Martina Meola, Pietro De Maria and Nikola Meeuwsen. The series will culminate in a performance of Beethoven's Ninth Symphony in Gozo.

The season will also feature works by leading composers including Bruckner, Mahler, Shostakovich, Britten, Prokofiev, Mozart, Schumann, Tchaikovsky, Dvořák, Sibelius, Ravel, Strauss and Schubert. At the same time, the orchestra will continue to promote Maltese music and develop collaborations with other cultural organisations.

Arts, Culture and National Heritage Minister Malcolm Paul Agius Galea said the orchestra's role goes beyond artistic excellence.

"This programme is testament to how the National Orchestra continues to aim for the highest artistic standards and strengthen its international presence, while at the same time remaining close to the people," he said.

"Culture is part of our quality of life, and through music we can create moments where families and friends come together, relax and enjoy a shared cultural experience," the minister added.

MPO Chief Executive Vanessa Mangion said the orchestra's story had continued to grow through artistic development, passion and commitment to music.

"The programme we have prepared for this season is very exciting, with internationally renowned soloists joining the orchestra and several musical directors who will further raise the profile and prestige of our orchestra," she said.

"In this way, we will continue to strengthen our vision of prestige, internationalisation and audience growth," Mangion added.

The 2026/27 Symphony Season will begin in September 2026 and run until July 2027, with the MPO continuing to strengthen its role as Malta's National Orchestra and an ambassador for Maltese cultural excellence.

Further details are available on the Malta Philharmonic Orchestra website.