Beatles Tribute at Royal Albert in London

The world renowned Royal Philharmonic Orchestra, under the direction of Maltese conductor Alan Chircop, performed a music spectacular of classical interpretations of Beatles’ songs, which combined dramatic orchestral arrangements by Maltese composer Wayne Grima, imaginatively fused together with rock and pop, but keeping with the true spirit of the Beatles songs.

The Royal Philharmonic Orchestra was complemented by a 100-strong Maltese Choir who got together and travelled from Malta purposely to perform on this night. The audience were treated to special star guest appearances from the legendary Dame Shirley Bassey, Tony Christie, Darius Campbell, Beverly Knight, Antony Costa, Liz McClarnon, Lynn Faure Chircop, Maria Abela Manconi, Maria Elena Infantino, Susan Black, Elliott Frisby, Analiza Ching, Lou Jordan, Tony Moore and Candy Rock.

Well-known broadcaster and Beatles aficionado, Mike Read, presented a narrative backdrop to this tribute, taking the audience through The Beatles' legendary history.

The evening’s programme featured strongly the Maltese element, not only with the participation of a Maltese conductor, composer, choir and singers but also with the presence of Maltese flags and the most extraordinary rendition of the Maltese National Anthem. This was performed by the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra under the direction of Alan Chircop – and marked the beginning of a truly memorable evening for Anglo-Maltese cultural relations.

The Beatles Philharmonic Tribute was under the patronage of The President of Malta, HE Dr George Abela who followed the concert from the Queen’s Box together with other distinguished guests including The High Commissioner of Malta in the UK, Joseph Zammit Tabona, the British High Commissioner in Malta, HE Louise Stanton and the Queen’s Marshal of the Diplomatic Corps, Charles Gray CMG. It was also very well attended by other special guests, the UK general public and a large number of Maltese who came over to the UK specifically to attend this event.

The President of Malta was also present at the after-show party, where he met and congratulated the organisers, performers and musicians. This event was presented by SIM Malta Ltd and Rocco Buonvino, and was supporting Noah’s Ark Appeal, Nordoff Robbins and The Malta Community Chest Fund.