News

November 6, 2012

Joseph receives honorary degree from the University of Malta

Calleja Award

Last Friday, the University of Malta bestowed upon Joseph Calleja a Doctor of Literature Honoris Causa in recognition of his achievements as one of the world’s finest tenors. Upon receiving this honor, Jospeh said, “I am very much a Maltese product, I am very proud of my heritage, it is genuine love I feel for this nation.” In a statement, the University’s Professor Friggieri said that Joseph was making it possible for millions of people around the globe “to have their lives enriched, their consciousness heightened, and their experience intensified by being exposed to the beauty and power of his voice. We as a nation are justifiably proud of his achievement.  The University of Malta is the first academic institution to grant him an honorary degree.  It will certainly not be the last.”  Read the Times of Malta article here.

Joseph's Blog

May 19th, 2013

Eurovision and cross voting

Despite having a brilliant song that was delivered impeccably Malta didn’t win the Eurovision song contest. No doubt there will be many who will cry foul, bring up the unfair issue of neighbourly  cross voting and insist on having Malta withdraw from future contests.

Whether it is in the office or on stage “cross voting” is just yet a common and normal factor that has to catered for and dealt with in the long road of realising ones goal, whatever that might be. Fierce competition is rampant everywhere in todays society and the road to success will be constantly besieged by factions, jealousy, envy, loyalties, nepotism or downright corruption. Multiple spokes in the wheels are not only the norm but they are to be expected and dealt with. Indeed I view these acts of cheekiness as adding to ones achievment and a sad reminder that human nature can sometimes be petty and small minded.

So to all of those who think that Malta should stop competing in the Eurovision I say that some form of “tomfoolery” will always be present and cannot really be avoided and it is the marking of true, real talent to triumph despite and against the odds!

What we really need to do in Malta is to see the Eurovision for what it is; great, silly fun and just another way to remind our European neighbours what a great destination and fun Malta is.

Life ain’t perfect and it certainly isn’t fair but fate is inexorable and the day will come when someone from these shores will lift the trophy… in the meantime a big BRAVO to Gianluca and all the Maltese team who went there to have fun and fun they had!