Contemporary works by Maltese artists under the direction of top conductor.
The 2019 edition of the Malta International Arts Festival is merely a couple of weeks away and will be launched on the weekend of the 28 June. The extensive programme, under the artistic direction of Ruben Zahra, promised an eclectic mix of Maltese and international performances, oftentimes connecting local artists with international talent.
Contemporary music and dance come together in ‘M.A.D. Music and Dance’ – a compelling programme under the direction of conductor Pavel Šnajdr. The programme will include stirring new choreographies by Gil Kerer and Zoe Camilleri set to the music of Maltese composers Karl Fiorini, Veronique Vella, and Alex Vella Gregory. The programme will also feature three major 20th century chamber works: A selection from ‘Façade Entertainments’ by William Walton, narrated by Chris Dingli; ‘Sextour’ by Guillaume Connesson; and ‘Mystries of the Macabre’ by György Ligeti featuring Czech soprano Irena Troupová.
Born in 1975, Pavel Šnajdr studied composition and conducting at the Janáček Academy of Music and Performing Arts in Brno. Šnajdr is specialised in 20th century and contemporary repertoire, and tours internationally with his own Brno Contemporary Orchestra (BCO). Šnajdr will be conducting a chamber ensemble from the Malta Philharmonic Orchestra, which has worked with the maestro before on other 20th century and contemporary works.
For this occasion, MIAF is creating the opportunity for professional dancers working in Malta to collaborate creatively with an established international choreographer. Gil Kerer from Israel will be creating two new works with six dancers to the music of Maltese composers Karl Fiorini and Veronique Vella. Similarly, dance artist Zoe Camilleri will create a new choreography based on the music of Alex Vella Gregory. These three new choreographies willl be premiered during ‘M.A.D’ to a live performance by pianists Gisèle Grima and Erika Gialanze. This project is made possible with the cultural support of the Israeli Embassy.
“My vision for the MIAF includes a strong interdisciplinary dimension with the capacity to connect local artists with international talent in view of collaborations and co-productions,” says Mr Zahra. “M.A.D – Music and Dance perfectly realises that vision.”
‘M.A.D – Music and Dance’ will take place on Thursday 4 July, at 9pm, on the Main Stage, Boat Street (Il-Fossa), Valletta. The performance is supported by The Embassy of Israel. For further information about these and other performances within the Malta International Arts Festival visit www.festivals.mt/miaf.
