Charles Camilleri tribute concerts

I note with pleasure the announcement of two tribute concerts to commemorate Charles Camilleri on January 16 and 17 at the Manoel Theatre.

The news brought back happy memories of one early morning, some 50 years ago, when Mro Camilleri asked me to premiere his piano sonata as a first performance for the Belfast Festival. It was still in his own handwriting, on manuscript paper! I later returned this precious original to Mro Camilleri before his demise.

This experience has stirred me to explore more of Mro Camilleri's music, and of other Maltese composers thereafter, including one or two pieces in my recital programmes in the UK, Europe and far beyond. Audiences and critics alike welcomed these new works with enthusiasm and genuine appreciation! I feel sure all past and present students and teachers will not miss the two tribute concerts in his memory.