These concerts are part of a wider campaign to raise funds for the restoration of the priceless Baroque organ currently housed in the church. This campaign has already seen several local artists contribute to this cause, but a lot more is needed to help this project. The organ is first mentioned in 1697 in one of the earliest inventories of the convent, although it is not clear whether it was boug
ht from Vincenzo Saresa or that it was bought in 1660 and was set up by Saresa. In 1692 the organ had already suffered damages which were fixed by Gaetano Turriglio. In order to cover the incumbent wooden bulk of the instrument, two Preti paintings were attached to it depicting St Tereza & Mary Magdalen de Pazzi and St Cecilia. In 1802 there were attempts to replace the organ because of extensive damages, but luckily it was somewhat fixed because the cost of replacing with a new one were too high. A new blower was installed in 1813, and in 1828, more restoration works were performed by Salvatore Battaglia. The last major amendmend was held in 1958 with the installation of an electric motor to facilitate the blower. This is by far a unique organ in Malta which dates back to the 17th century and which is mostly intact from the period owing to the minimal restoration works done over the centuries. It is a gem that once restored will sing back in all its full glory. Help us restore this baroque gem. Join us for the concerts.
