MPO joins European association of performing arts employers to ‘bolster artistic programme’ – CEO

The Malta Philharmonic Orchestra has become an associate member of Pearle* – Live Performance Europe, Europe’s largest association of performing arts employers and the leading music federation on EU and international regulatory affairs issues affecting the daily operations of live performance organisations.

“The pandemic has adversely affected Malta’s cultural sector, but by joining Pearle* we are looking forward to consolidating our strategy and bolstering our artistic programme for the forthcoming year,” says MPO CEO Sigmund Mifsud, commenting on the announcement.

As COVID-19 wreaked havoc on the industry locally and across the globe, the CEO emphasised that the Malta Philharmonic Orchestra joined many in changing tack and embracing a digital transformation.

Having performed to 5.2 million spectators through online performances throughout the first months of 2021, the orchestra looks forward to live audience once again, and forming part of Pearle* will help give Malta’s national orchestra a voice on a European level.

“We are delighted to have Malta Philharmonic Orchestra now also part of this group,” commented Pearle* director Anita Debaere, maintaining that “these times are especially challenging, but this is also a time for joining forces across borders. Despite political developments and decisions, live performance events have, and always will, connect people, industry and cultures across our national borders.”

“In this context, we look forward to continuing to give our support to all our members in their efforts to carry on securing tours, co-productions, exchanges and residencies, as well as exchanging on topics such as climate change, employment, skills, the digital environment or the on-going struggle to obtain support and funding, which are challenges for the sector as a whole,” she continued.