Joseph Vella, Artistic Director of the Victoria International Arts Festival, is back from Saint Dizier, France, where he was honoured as composer-in-residence of the week-long Academie Festival -Le Printemps de la musique, which was held between 21st and 27th April. Seven of Joseph Vella’s works were performed, by soloists, duos, quartets and a full string ensemble. The highlight of Joseph Vella’s experience at this Festival was the world premiere of his ‘Sighs and Whispers’ op. 123, which was performed by world-class musicians Fabrice Pierre (harp) and Patrick Gallois (flutist/conductor).

During his stay in Saint Dizier, Joseph Vella further confirmed himself as a leading composer of a very respected and extraordinarily high calibre, who has been commissioned new works by musicians whose names and performances have resonated in the major concert venues the world over. He made new acquaintances and re-connected with ‘old’ ones, a few of whom are also taking part in this year’s edition of the Victoria International Arts Festival.  

The Victoria International Arts Festival is honoured and humbled to have Joseph Vella as its Artistic Director. With him at the helm success is guaranteed and the profile of the Festival is brought on a par with other major Festivals of its kind and calibre.