A concert performance of Carlo Diacono’s opera L’Alpino is being presented on Friday 31st January 2025, at 7:30 pm at Teatru Manoel, thanks to a collaboration between the Malta Philharmonic Orchestra and the Valletta Cultural Agency.
During a Press Conference, Valletta Cultural Agency CEO, Catherine Tabone said, “This production holds a special place in my heart, celebrating Carlo Diacono—one of Malta’s most significant composers. Following the Valletta Cultural Agency’s success in producing Verdi’s Requiem last November, L’Alpino continues our tradition of artistic excellence promising to deliver every emotional nuance of Diacono’s opera which thrives on its rich melodies and chromatic harmonies.”
Malta Philharmonic Orchestra CEO, Vanessa Mangion said, “Carlo Diacono’s opera L’Alpino is deeply rooted in the historical context of World War I, a conflict that reshaped Europe and claimed millions of lives. The opera’s narrative unfolds against the backdrop of the historical battles waged by the Italian Army against the Austro-Hungarians and Germans in the rugged terrain of the Alps and Dolomites. These battles were marked by harsh conditions, staggering casualties, and minimal strategic gains. By intertwining the personal struggles of the Alpini soldiers with the broader historical context of Italy’s campaign, the opera serves as a poignant tribute to the resilience and sacrifices of those who fought and fell in one of the most gruelling arenas of World War I.”
Under the baton of Maestro Michael Laus, Resident Conductor of the Malta Philharmonic Orchestra, this concert will bring to life Diacono’s richly orchestrated music in verismo style. The performance combines the elegance of traditional operatic styles with a deep emotional resonance, blending influences from Italian, French and German opera into a powerful and unforgettable dramatic oeuvre.
Maestro Michael Laus in fact said that “I am thrilled to have the opportunity to perform this milestone from the rich Maltese operatic heritage of the early twentieth century, a work which has not been performed in its entirety for almost eighty years. I am certain that this will be an unforgettable experience for both opera lovers and newcomers.”
Maestro Ray Sciberras, Director of Cappella Diacono, shared insights into his work on digitising the three-act opera. The process involved working from a handwritten manuscript from 1918, which had sections that were partially obscured. This meticulous work was carried out in discussion with Carlo Baldini from the Accademia Nazionale di Santa Cecilia.
“This is a work we should be proud of, as few Maltese composers have ventured into opera,” Sciberras remarked. “While Diacono was highly prolific in composing festive music for orchestras and bands, L’Alpino is his only opera. It features a refined and delicate intermezzo and concludes with the Coro dei Montanari, creating an unparalleled atmosphere, making this a truly unmissable experience.”
The cast features Malta’s distinguished vocal talent: Sopranos Miriam Cauchi and Nicola Said as Nella and Anna Rosa respectively, tenor Alan Sciberras as Enzo, bass-baritone Louis Andrew Cassar as Andrea, and bass Noel Galea as Franz. Mariaconcetta Calafiore and Anita Vella Bondin add depth as the Due Compagne, complemented by the Goldberg Ensemble Choir, enriching the musical fabric of the evening.
Tickets for L’Alpino range from €9 to €30. Secure your seats now at teatrumanoel.mt/event/lalpino/ or by calling (+356) 21246389.
L’Alpino is produced thanks to a collaboration between the Valletta Cultural Agency and the Malta Philharmonic Orchestra.
