An Evolving Institution
The MPO’s digital transformation, as the orchestra pursued its online endeavours whilst striving to keep its music-making alive, also entailed an organizational change. New roles allowed the orchestra to evolve, adapt and remain a catalyst for arts and culture.
“The orchestra stepped up marvelously to adapt to the current situation,” says Daniela Said, who joined the ranks of the Events & Marketing team.
As Events Officer, Said is entrusted with administrating the MPO Online Programme, including Chamber Fridays and orchestral audio-visual performances. Present on-site during the recording sessions, Daniela caters to the needs of the musicians and of the technical team.
Sarah Debono, recently promoted to Finance & Administration Manager, admits that the past year has seen her role change as incremental recording costs put a further challenge on the orchestra.
Along with the Director, she has sought “to develop and strengthen financial strategies and policies” to ensure that the MPO channels its creative efforts beyond the challenges of the pandemic.
Another new face within this department is Shirley Farrugia who joined as Administrative Assistant.
Apart from contributing towards the procurement process and maintaining rehearsal room bookings, she is responsible for the travelling itineraries of artists invited to perform with the MPO. Certainly, “when considering the current travel restrictions, this is quite a feat!”
Jean Noël Attard, now appointed as Events & Marketing Manager, has spearheaded the orchestra’s digital activities as the orchestra reached over 11 million people on digital platforms, increasing its reach by 93% in 45 different countries. He reiterates how arts practitioners have a duty to “re-kindle hope and inspire, now more than ever before!”
His hard-working team, seeing as the MPO produced over 60 releases in 2020, plays a key role as the orchestra seeks to ameliorate its musical output and develop its goals and strategies. The MPO congratulates the 4 new appointees as they join fellow management and administration staff in enhancing the local cultural landscape and artistic development as Malta’s leading musical institution, whilst bolstering the orchestra’s international standing.
