FAQ (with links) on playing experimental music in Malta + other general info.
I am often asked about playing live in Malta (I don’t mind).
These links and info should be helpful.
Are there opportunities to play non-commercial (or not obviously commercial) music live?
Simply put, it is possible if your expectations are very modest. If you’re looking to play live as a sideline while on a family holiday – to twist some knobs and have your pale Northern European skin crackle loudly in the sun (it could make a good sound art project) in the same weekend – this would probably be fairly doable.
If you’re expecting a paid flight, hotel accommodation and a generous fee, it is unlikely. Malta, other than being a geographically isolated island at the Southern limits of Europe, also has a low population (less than half a million) and limited interest in this kind of music/art.
Which organisations/venues do I contact?
Together with like-minded friends I founded Arsha Our. That is a good place to start.
Other than them, I’d suggest Electronic Music Malta and Kinemastik (also good for things related to film, even experimental film).
Together, these organisations hosted people as varied as Aaron Dilloway, Demdike Stare, Lucas Abela / Justice Yeldham (did you know he’s of Maltese descent?), Luke Vibert, Dopplereffekt, Basic House (Opal Tapes), Bernhard Gal, TG Gondard, Roadside Picnic, Yuri Landman, etc.
There are no real dedicated venues. We play in cellars, abandoned holiday complexes, institutional venues, theme pubs and anywhere they’ll let us.
Gugar is a good hang out to ask about stuff and to pick up flyers from. Believe it or not there is a record shop, Solo Vinyl, selling fairly obscure music (previously based in Milan). Also check out Sunset Records.
If you forgot your cables, Olimpus Music is the biggest music shop on the island.
Other info?
Other than Airmalta, Ryanair have a really strong base in Malta. Several other low-cost or major airlines fly to Malta.
If you’re looking for a place to stay, you can stay here. It is a humble but comfortable house which can sleep four persons. It is less than five minutes away from the sea on foot, right in the centre of the capital city Valletta.
If in season try lampuki – a fish that grows only in the strait between Malta, Sicily and Tunisia… and pastizzi – our local street snack (“pastizzeriji” are everywhere).
Malta is windy. To check for currents, strong wind or jellyfish check out Which Beach. This will ensure your toupee doesn’t fly off, you won’t get stung and you won’t drown.
Other questions…
Ask me. I’m friendly (on a good day).