Wiċċ Imb Wiċċ mal-Għannej / Meet the Għannej - Jesmond Galea ‘Tal-Kalora'

Step into the world of għana, Malta’s expressive folk singing tradition, in this unique event that brings you face-to-face with a live għannej (folk singer) and his guitarists.

This interactive session offers a rare opportunity to delve into the art of għana, exploring the singer’s role, the improvisational nature of the għana spirtu pront lyrics, and the way they intertwine with the melodies of accompanying guitars. Through live performances and insightful discussions, audiences will gain a deeper appreciation of this treasured musical and linguistic heritage. A Q&A session following the performance will allow attendees to engage directly with the artists, fostering a greater understanding of the tradition.

Meet Jesmond Galea ‘Tal-Kalora’! Hailing from Naxxar, Jesmond Galea, known as Tal-Kalora, was born in 1966 into a family of blacksmiths. Son of Ninu Galea 'il-Kalora’ and brother of Salvu Galea tal-Kalora, —who later emigrated to Australia, —Jesmond was drawn to għana (traditional Maltese folk music) from an early age.

As a young singer, he performed publicly alongside Mikiel Cutajar ‘Is-Superstar’ in Żejtun’s main square, quickly earning recognition for his talent. In recent years, his passion for għana has remained strong, and he continues to perform actively, sometimes even sharing the stage with his son, Lawrence Galea ‘tal-Kalora.’

Join us for this special encounter to experience the beauty of għana firsthand and connect with one of its most renowned practitioners.

Please note that this event will be conducted in Maltese, but everyone is welcome to attend and listen!

Għannej (Traditional Maltese Folk Singer)  

Jesmond Galea ‘Tal-Kalora’

Guitarists 

Kalċidon Vella ‘Ta' Mustaċċcca’

Mark Vella

Denise Cachia Vella ‘Ta’ Kalċ’