Malta School of Music Celebrates 50 Years of Excellence at Verdala Palace

The Mikiel Anton Vassalli College (MAVC) marked a major milestone in its history with a celebratory event commemorating the 50th Anniversary of the Malta School of Music, formerly known as the Johann Strauss School of Music. The event was held on Wednesday, 3 December 2025, at Verdala Palace, under the patronage of Her Excellency the President of Malta, and concluded with a reception for invited guests.

The programme brought together music, reflection and celebration, highlighting five decades of artistic and educational achievement. Proceedings opened with a ceremonial fanfare performed by the AFM Ensemble, followed by performances by students and ensembles of the Malta School of Music, including the SoM Young Singers, instrumental ensembles, and soloists, showcasing the breadth and depth of the School’s artistic disciplines

Addresses were delivered by Her Excellency the President of Malta, the Permanent Secretary, the Head of School, and the Head of College Network, Mr Victor Galea, reflecting on the School’s legacy, evolution and national contribution.

In his address, Mr Victor Galea, Head of College, highlighted the Malta School of Music’s enduring commitment to academic integrity, pedagogical independence and professional excellence. He noted that throughout its fifty-year history, the School has played a pivotal role in shaping generations of musicians and educators who have significantly contributed to Malta’s cultural and artistic life. He emphasised the School’s principled decision to retain independent academic assessment, even when external examination systems became widespread, and how this vision has been validated through the development of internally designed programmes accredited by the MFHEA (offering programmes of studies from MQF Level 1 to MQF Level 5), a milestone of national importance. He concluded by expressing heartfelt appreciation to educators, students, alumni and staff whose dedication has sustained and strengthened the School’s reputation over five decades.

The event also included presentations reflecting on the School’s historical trajectory, innovations in music pedagogy, and contemporary approaches to music theory and performance, reinforcing the Malta School of Music’s role as a cornerstone of high-level artistic education within Mikiel Anton Vassalli College – the national college for arts education.

This 50th anniversary celebration not only honoured the past, but also reaffirmed the Malta School of Music’s commitment to excellence, creativity and cultural leadership for the years ahead.