Published on Friday 21 May 2021

Minister for the National Heritage, the Arts and Local Government José Herrera presided over the signing of a memorandum of understanding between Arts Council Malta and the Għaqda Każini tal-Banda.

The aim of this MoU is to strengthen and streamline the collaboration that already exists between the two entities. The work carried out by the Għaqda Każini tal-Banda reflects the Council’s commitment towards the safeguarding of traditional culture and its mission to strengthen culture in its different forms and fora. 

Addressing a press conference during the signing ceremony, Minister Herrera said that, ‘this MoU continues to build on the already excellent relationship that exists with the Għaqda Każini tal-Banda. A relationship that has already led to a direct financial investment of around half a million euro by Arts Council Malta in band clubs around Malta and Gozo. An amount that does not take into consideration additional collaborations that have developed over the years between the Council and specific societies or their subsidiaries’. 

The MoU was signed by Arts Council Malta Executive Chair Albert Marshall and the President of the Għaqda Każini tal-Banda Dr Noel Camilleri. 

Mr. Marshall said that, ‘At this pivotal time, during which the creative and cultural sector is redefining itself to become even more resilient and sustainable, such collaborations are very beneficial, not only for the organisation entering into agreement with the Council, but also for the Council itself, since such collaborations provide us with a wider understanding of the sector and help us achieve our goal of making culture more accessible for everyone’. 

On behalf of the Għaqda Nazzjonali Każini tal-Banda, Dr Camilleri welcomed this MoU and praised the Ministry’s commitment towards the safeguarding of traditional culture. ‘This agreement continues to give value to the work carried out by our band clubs towards the democratisation of culture. We are grateful for the extension of the collaboration between the two organisations and look forward towards new initiatives together’. 

The MoU will continue building on the synergy that exists between the two organisations in the delivery of existing support schemes and the drawing up of new initiatives for the benefit of band clubs and enthusiasts around Malta and Gozo.

Press Release by the Ministry for the National Heritage, the Arts and Local Government.