Around the World with the Accordion

Barocco Foundation, in collaboration with Din l-Art Ħelwa, continues its much-loved lunchtime concert series with a vibrant and engaging recital titled Around the World with the Accordion, taking place on Tuesday 21 April at 12:30pm at the historic Our Lady of Victory Church.

This special concert will feature acclaimed accordionist Yuri Charyguine, who will take audiences on a captivating musical journey across continents, showcasing the remarkable versatility and expressive power of the accordion. Through a carefully curated programme, listeners will be transported from the Mediterranean to Eastern Europe, and from the Americas to the heart of Western Europe, all within the intimate and atmospheric setting of one of Valletta’s most cherished churches.

The recital opens with a touch of Maltese heritage, including the beloved traditional melody Il-Maltija, before moving seamlessly into the warmth and lyricism of Italy with Anema e Core by Salve D'Esposito. The programme then ventures further afield, embracing the rich musical traditions of Russia and Ukraine with Captain Grant’s Children by Isaak Dunayevsky and the folk tune Minka, evoking the spirit and colour of Eastern European culture.

Audiences will also be treated to timeless classics such as Moonlight Serenade by Glenn Miller and the evocative tango Adiós Nonino by Astor Piazzolla, alongside the infectious rhythms of Brazil in Tico-Tico no Fubá by Zequinha de Abreu. The programme continues with the familiar strains of How Deep Is Your Love by the Bee Gees, adding a contemporary touch to this global musical exploration.

Further highlights include the spirited Spanish favourite Valencia by José Padilla and the hauntingly beautiful La Noyée by Yann Tiersen, before concluding with lively traditional dances from Ireland, Moldova and Bulgaria, as well as the playful Flick Flack by A. Vossen. The concert comes full circle with another nod to Maltese musical roots in L-Aħħar Bidwi, offering a fitting and heartfelt conclusion.

Blending classical, folk, and popular repertoire, this recital promises a delightful midday escape, celebrating cultural diversity through music. Set against the unique historical ambiance of Our Lady of Victory Church, Around the World with the Accordion invites audiences to pause, unwind, and experience the universal language of music in a truly distinctive way.

Around the World with the Accordion: will be held at Our Lady of Victory church, Valletta on Tuesday 21 April at 12:30pm. Entrance to the concert is at a suggested donation of €13.  One can obtain the tickets prior to the concert from the venue itself or by email: baroccobookings@gmail.com/baroccomalta@gmail.com or phone 79680952.