VICTORIA INTERNATIONAL ARTS FESTIVAL
AND SUMMER MUSIC SCHOOL
JULY 8 TO 22, 2002
The Dunbartonshire Concert Band was invited by the people of Victoria, in particular those of the parish of St. George, to participate in their famous annual Festival and to form the basis of the associated Summer Music School in its inaugural year. This truly international occasion on the beautiful island of Gozo provided a dynamic setting for sharing music, ideas and experiences with local and other visiting amateur and professional musicians.
DCB players had a unique opportunity to experience the biggest festa on the Maltese islands as participants and to savour unfamiliar musical and cultural perspectives. The band was accompanied on the trip by the composer, Marcus Blunt, several of whose compositions were performed.
For the people of Gozo, music plays a major part in their cultural, social and religious life. Victoria's band, La Stella, with which the DCB had considerable interaction, is an integral, respected part of the community.
The historic Victoria Festival runs for fifteen days culminating on the third Sunday of July with the traditional celebrations for patron saint, St George. Parades, fireworks and the thousands of visitors add to the vibrant, exciting carnival atmosphere. Everywhere there is live music....
The Music School provided tuition from international tutors. There were masterclasses, chamber and larger group coaching for visiting and local players and a Young Performer Competition for players up to 16 years of age.
During this trip, DCB took part in more than 12 concerts (with associated rehearsals) - including full band and chamber groups, and as invited members of the Festa Orchestra - in addition to participating in the various workshops, masterclasses and competitions. We also recorded a CD. Public performances on Gozo were broadcast live on local radio. We also presented two concerts on Malta (sponsored by the British Council), and joined with La Stella band in their traditional festa parades.
We also found time (occasionally) to play by the pool...