Malta’s Music Scene: Keeping the Beat During COVID-19
Imagine this: it’s a balmy Saturday evening in Malta, and you’re strolling along the bustling Republic Street in Valletta. The air is filled with the aroma of fresh pizza from a nearby pizzeria, and the sound of laughter and chatter from locals and tourists alike. Suddenly, you hear a familiar beat – the unmistakable rhythm of a marching band. The Il-Furnar Band is leading a festa, a traditional Maltese religious procession, through the heart of the capital. This is not just a religious event; it’s a celebration of community, culture, and heritage. And it’s happening right now, in the middle of a global pandemic.
Music: The heartbeat of Maltese culture
Music is the lifeblood of Malta’s cultural scene. From the traditional għana festivals in the countryside to the contemporary music festivals like the Malta International Music Festival in Valletta, music brings people together. It’s a universal language that transcends borders and unites communities. And despite the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, Malta’s music scene is finding new ways to keep the beat going.
From virtual concerts to rooftop gigs
When the pandemic hit, Malta’s music scene had to adapt quickly. Concerts and festivals were cancelled, and musicians were left without stages to perform on. But they didn’t let the silence linger for long. Instead, they took to the internet, streaming live concerts from their living rooms. Local bands like The New Victorians and Winter Moods hosted virtual gigs, bringing the concert experience into people’s homes.
But Malta’s musicians are nothing if not innovative. They started thinking outside the box, literally. Rooftop gigs became the new norm. Bands like Brodu and Kurt Aquilina performed from their balconies, treating their neighbours to impromptu concerts. It was a unique way to maintain social distancing while still bringing people together through music.
Supporting local music: Now more than ever
While these alternative performances have been a lifeline for Malta’s music scene, the industry is still struggling. Many local musicians and venues rely on live performances for their income, and the pandemic has left them in a precarious position. But there are ways to support them. Buying merchandise online, streaming their music, and donating to their causes can make a big difference.
as restrictions ease, it’s important to support local music venues. These places are not just stages; they’re community hubs where people can come together, share experiences, and create memories. They’re the heartbeat of Malta’s music scene, and they need our support to keep beating.
So, the next time you’re out and about in Malta, whether it’s in the heart of Valletta or in a small village like Għaxaq, listen out for that familiar beat. It might be coming from a balcony, a rooftop, or even a virtual stage. But it’s there, pulsing with life, resilience, and hope. Because in Malta, our beat goes on.
