Maltese tenor Joseph Calleja conferred honoris causa

Malta's finest export Joseph Calleja has been honoured with a degree of Doctor of Literature from the University of Malta.

The world-famous tenor received his honoris causa today for having, at only 34 years of age, sung an impressive number of roles and performed on most of the world's leading opera stages, becoming Malta's highly acclaimed cultural ambassador, and "bringing joy to millions and serving as an inspiration for the young by showing how excellence can be achieved through sheer hard work and the cultivation of one's natural talents."

Calleja, who only recently crowned off the British Proms at the Royal Albert Hall, was honoured by Professor Joe Friggieri who paid tribute to the opera singer for being an ambassador of opera and for his mission to promote the art among the widest audience possible.

"Joseph Calleja, the Maltese tenor, is making it possible for millions of people around the globe, regardless of age and social background, to have their lives enriched, their consciousness heightened, and their experience intensified by being exposed to the beauty and power of his voice. We as a nation are justifiably proud of his achievement. The University of Malta is the first academic institution to grant him an honorary degree. It will certainly not be the last," Friggieri said.