For half a century, the Maltese Concert Band NSW has been far more than a musical ensemble. It has been a living expression of faith, service and community by accompanying generations of Catholics through some of the most significant moments of the Church’s liturgical year while preserving the rich musical traditions of the Maltese community in Sydney.
And what better way to celebrate than with a sophisticated black-tie event. In June, band members, families, past leaders and distinguished guests donned their finest to celebrate 50 years and look forward to their next encore.
The story of the Maltese Concert Band began in Our Lady Queen of Peace Parish, Greystanes, through the vision of the late Fr Ronald Darmenia. Recognising the unifying power of music, Fr Darmenia brought together 12 musicians for the band’s very first rehearsal in February 1976. What began as a modest gathering in a parish hall soon grew into one of Sydney’s most enduring community bands.
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As the band’s former president, Deacon Roderick Pirotta, said: “They came with instruments in hand. Some owned, some borrowed, but all came with passion. That night was more than a rehearsal. It was the beginning of a legacy.”
Although Fr Darmenia passed away only a few months later, his vision continued. The early members continued with determination, building an organisation that has flourished for 50 years while remaining faithful to its original purpose: bringing people together through music in the service of both church and community.
“This band is more than music. It is about people. It is about relationships. It is about belonging,” said Deacon Rod.
And although the band had its ups and downs, it always found new ways to reach out to share the talents of its band members.
In 2013, the committee introduced a tuition program that would help secure the future of the band.
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“This was not just an investment in music, but in people,” said Deacon Rod. The tuition program included sponsoring young and older students to learn an instrument, removing barriers of age and nationality, and opening new doors for those who otherwise wouldn’t have had the opportunity to learn.
“This initiative breathed new life into the band. It ensured continuity, nurtured new talent, and strengthened the sense of community that defines us. Today, that program stands as one of the band’s greatest achievements. It reminds us that our responsibility is not only to preserve what we have received, but to pass it on to the next generation.”
Today, the band is an integral part of many Catholic celebrations throughout Sydney. It is especially honoured to provide music each year for the Feast of the Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary in September, for Our Lady of Victories at Horsley Park and Our Lady Queen of Peace Greystanes.
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The band also regularly participates in the Feast of St Nicholas at Plumpton Parish, the solemn Good Friday procession at Horsley Park, All Souls’ Day commemorations at Pine Grove Cemetery, and numerous other parish feasts and religious celebrations.
Throughout the Golden Jubilee Ball, heartfelt tributes were paid to the many people whose generosity has shaped the band’s journey. Successive bandmasters, presidents, assistant bandmasters, committee members and volunteers were recognised for their leadership and tireless service.
Special remembrance was given to the late Eric Rizzo, the band’s founding president and one of its original musicians. Remembered for his exceptional musicianship and steadfast leadership, Eric devoted decades to ensuring the band remained true to its founding ideals. His legacy continues through his son, Paul Rizzo, now the band’s longest-serving member and current secretary.
All the Maestros were thanked (Brian Zammit, 2003–2006, Scott Turner, 2006–2020, and Charles Simiana, 2020-present) as well as the presidents (Charlie Zammit, Oreste Aquilina, Joe Camilleri, George Attard, Josephine Camilleri, Tony Vella, Antoine Mangion, and Roderick Pirotta).
The late George Attard was also honoured for his extraordinary dedication. Known affectionately as the heart of the band, George devoted much of his life to promoting and strengthening the organisation, fostering the sense of family that remains one of its defining characteristics.
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La Valette Social Club, the Maltese Community Council and Consul General of Malta in Sydney Ms Anneliese Sammut, were graciously thanked.
As Deacon Rod concluded in his speech: “Fifty years on, we stand on the shoulders of those who came before us. The founders, the musicians, the leaders, the supporters.
“Their commitment has given us something truly special. And so tonight, we celebrate not just the past, but the future. A future where this band continues to grow, to inspire and to bring people together, just as it has done since that very first practise night in 1976.
“May the next 50 years be filled with the same passion, the same unity and the same love for music that has brought us here tonight. Thank you, and happy golden anniversary to our beloved band.”
The Maltese Concert Band is an example of the Diocesan Pastoral Plan priorities of Prayer and Mission. Please visit Synodality to learn more.
